Hot-Swap Controller Protects cPCI Systems

The LTC4244 CompactPCI hot-swap controller turns supply voltages on and off, allowing boards to be safely inserted or removed without glitching the power supplies. Operating from a maximum supply voltage of 14.4V, the IC controls the 5V and 3.3V supply voltages via external N-channel FETs while internal switches control the ±12V supplies. Integrated circuit breakers further ensure operational safety with foldback current limiting. This protects all four supplies and allows over-current transients to be limited without latching off. The device also pre-charges the bus I/O connector pins during hot insertion and extraction. In addition, the controller eliminates under-voltage lockout on the -12V supply for those applications not employing VEE. Available in a 20-pin SSOP, pricing starts at $3.90 each/1,000. LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORP., Milpitas, CA. (800) 454-6327.