Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation, commonly referred to as Toshiba, has announced the expansion of its Thermoflagger line-up, introducing six new products to the “TCTH0xxxE series” Over-temperature Detection ICs. These additions aim to provide a straightforward solution for detecting temperature rises within electronic equipment. Shipments of these new products have commenced.
The importance of maintaining electronic components and semiconductors within their designated operational temperature parameters cannot be overstated. Any deviation from these parameters can pose serious safety and reliability concerns. To address this issue, Toshiba offers the Thermoflagger over-temperature detection ICs, designed to function seamlessly within a simple circuit alongside Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) thermistors.
The role of Thermoflagger ICs is to monitor temperature changes by tracking variations in the resistance of PTC thermistors, which, in turn, are positioned near heat sources. When a significant temperature increase is detected, these ICs promptly trigger a FLAG signal. This signal can then be used to alert a microcontroller (MCU) system, which can subsequently respond by either shutting down the equipment or modifying the operation of the equipment or semiconductor generating excess heat. Furthermore, by connecting PTC thermistors in series, the Thermoflagger ICs allow for over-temperature detection at multiple locations.
The newly introduced Thermoflagger products include TCTH011AE, TCTH012AE, TCTH021AE, TCTH022AE, TCTH011BE, and TCTH012BE. These additions complement the existing TCTH021BE and TCTH022BE, expanding the TCTH0xxxE series line-up to a total of eight products. Notably, these new products extend the selection of PTC thermistors, accommodating two types of PTCO output current. Additionally, users have the option to choose between push-pull or open-drain FLAG signal output types, as well as the utilization or non-utilization of a FLAG signal latch function. This diversity in product offerings empowers engineers to create flexible circuit designs while maintaining low current consumption.
The new Thermoflagger ICs come in a compact industry-standard SOT-553 packaging, designated as ESV by Toshiba. This packaging ensures compatibility and facilitates easy implementation of over-temperature detection in various electronic equipment, contributing to reductions in size and power consumption.
Toshiba has also made available a new reference design alongside a previously published one on its website. The “Thermoflagger Over-temperature Detection IC Application Circuit (TCTH021AE/Push-Pull version)” is now accessible to aid in the integration of these ICs into electronic systems.
It is important to note that Toshiba relies on technical information provided by Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. concerning PTC thermistors for its over-temperature detection solutions. Murata has endorsed the use of Thermoflagger in conjunction with PTC thermistors, emphasizing its suitability for the purpose.
Toshiba’s commitment to expanding its product line-up with various packages and improved device characteristics underscores its dedication to offering flexible design solutions and contributing to carbon neutrality initiatives.