Overcurrent Protector Gets A New Coat

The Raychem Circuit Protection PolySwitch TRW250-180 is a coated, resettable, radial-leaded, overcurrent protection device. Compared to the previous uncoated version, the new device is now insulated from contact with other components or any grounded surface. It also has improved mechanical characteristics and dielectric voltage withstand capabilities. Targeted applications include main distribution frame (MDF) modules, ADSL modems, and central office, customer premise and access network equipment. The low-resistance, through-hole device has a rated hold current of 180 mA. It significantly limits fault energy, the company says, giving OEMs the ability to design products using less-expensive, smaller, lower-power components. Besides interrupting potentially damaging power faults, the new device is robust to ITU-T K.20/21/45 lightning surges, making it effective for protection of modems designed for use around the world. The TRW250-180 comes in tape-and-reel packaging, for compatibility with high-volume manufacturing, or in bulk quantities. It also comes in resistance binned packaging for applications with more stringent line balance requirements. Starting price is $0.30 in volume quantities. TYCO ELECTRONICS, Menlo Park, CA. (800) 227-7040.