Built-in Protection for Voltage Regulator

Whenever working with high voltage systems, there is a concern that components may fail during an arc or other transient event. Generally much care must be taken when selecting components, adding protective parts such as tranzorbs, and in defining the layout. Linear Technology has introduced an "overvoltage protection regulator" which might be useful. Since regulators seem to be vulnerable to the effects of high voltage transients, this is a welcome addition.

Maximum input voltage is 100V, and maximum output voltage is 80V. While this can come in handy, it is also good to know that for lower voltage operation, there is a wide safety margin.

The regulator has built-in protection for -30V or reverse input voltage, and it also has an inrush current limiter.

In applications where electronic systems must cope with high voltage surges of short duration, the LT4356 provides solid front-end protection for valuable, safety critical downstream components.