Connector Overvoltage Protection Circuit for Processor Inputs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices are vulnerable to damage from overvoltage entering through interfaces like USB, which can harm processor components, leading to device malfunction or unusability.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a configuration that includes a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode or an N-channel MOSFET between the connector pins and the processor to prevent or reduce the impact of overvoltage, ensuring the processor is protected from electrical stress and electrostatic discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an interface (e.g., USB) is provided for charge or data communication, then connectivity and functionality are improved, but the risk of overvoltage damage to electronic components increases
Solution Approach 1:
A protection circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the USB interface and the processor. This protection circuit includes a first switch connected in series with the data signal line and a second switch connected in series with the power supply line. When overvoltage is detected, these switches open to disconnect the processor from the interface, preventing damage while maintaining normal connectivity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection circuit performs preliminary detection of overvoltage conditions through voltage detection circuits that continuously monitor the interface. Before actual damage can occur, the system detects the abnormal voltage condition and preemptively activates the protection mechanism by controlling the switches to disconnect, thereby preventing the harmful effect before it reaches the processor.
2Reliability
If protection circuits are added to prevent overvoltage damage, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protection circuit is designed to handle multiple functions within a single integrated structure. The same protection circuit can protect against both overvoltage during data communication and overvoltage during power delivery. The first and second switches work together to provide comprehensive protection across different operational modes, reducing the need for separate protection mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection mechanism utilizes changes in voltage parameters to trigger protective action. Voltage detection circuits monitor voltage levels and compare them against predetermined thresholds. When the voltage exceeds the threshold, the system changes the state of the switches from closed to open, dynamically adjusting the circuit configuration based on the detected voltage parameter to provide protection only when necessary.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively prevents or reduces damage to the processor from overvoltage, thereby safeguarding the electronic device's functionality and extending its operational lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating a configuration that includes a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode or an N-channel MOSFET between the connector pins and the processor to prevent or reduce the impact of overvoltage
Implementation Method 2
Incorporating a configuration that includes a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode or an N-channel MOSFET between the connector pins and the processor to prevent or reduce the impact of overvoltage
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An electronic device includes a connector for connection to an external device; a controller electrically connected to a first external device detection terminal of the connector to detect an electric state of the first external device detection terminal and to output a signal corresponding to the detected electric state; a processor having a first input terminal electrically connected to the controller, that is configured to receive the signal through the first input terminal, having a second input terminal electrically connected to a second external device detection terminal of the connector, and that is configured to detect an electric state of the second external device detection terminal; and an electronic component disposed between the second external device detection terminal and the processor such that an overvoltage is not entered into the processor through the second input terminal. Various example embodiments are available.