Fairchild intros application specific reverse polarity switches

BANGALORE, INDIA: Inorder to protect both electronic devices and their users, Fairchild Semiconductor now offers a new line of low-power, application-specific, reverse polarity protection switches which also feature optional over-voltage transient protection.

The devices provide low resistance, fast response, and with nearly 50X less power consumption than a traditional series Schottky solution at 1Amp. They offer noticeable power savings while protecting the system from dangerous reverse polarity.

To simplify design and remove the guesswork, these reverse polarity protection switches have been optimized for the application to provide an easy “plug and play” implementation solution.

Part of Fairchild’s initial offering in the reverse polarity family are the FR011L5J low-side reverse polarity protector and the FR014H5JZ high-side reverse polarity protector with integrated over-voltage transient suppression (OVS). In the event of a reverse bias condition, both devices shut off power and provide a full voltage block to help protect downstream circuits.

Both protectors dissipate less than 0.02W during 1A normal operation, and less than 20µW in a 16V reverse bias event, a performance not possible with a diode solution. The low dissipation of the FR0XXX5J series significantly minimizes the need for heat sinking and allows for smaller package sizes, reduced board space requirements and lowered component costs.

Additionally, the devices’ nSec scale reverse bias blocking response time blocks negative transients and other potentially damaging DC events. The FR014H5JZ and FR011L5J parts are both USB tested and compatible.

Fairchild’s circuit protection technology portfolio is built upon a history of providing both innovative and traditional solutions. For customers that require traditional solutions, Fairchild is continuing to grow its portfolio of TVS, Schottky diodes and traditional PN diodes — pursuing smaller packages, higher power devices and lower Vf solutions.

However, it is solutions like the reverse polarity protectors that leverage the company’s innovative track record to meet customer-specific requirements. Fairchild’s expanding circuit protection product offering further demonstrates its commitment to customer needs, innovative design and industry expertise.

The FR011L5J is available for $0.35 and the FR014H5JZ is available for $0.56 in 1,000 quantity pieces.