The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

MOSFET Protects Automotive Electrical Systems

20 April 2000

International Rectifier Temperature Sensing MOSFET Protects Automotive Electrical Systems

    EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--April 19, 2000--International Rectifier (NYSE:IRF) today announced the TEMPsense(TM) HEXFET(R) power MOSFET designed to protect automotive electrical systems such as electric power assist steering (EPAS), anti-lock brakes (ABS) and fuel injection systems, as well as power door locks, window lifts and car audio circuits.
    "The IRLBD59N04E provides cost-effective temperature sensing for automotive system protection. The logic-level device can be configured to work with a variety of existing micro-controllers with minimum circuit re-design," said Gordon Gray, Automotive Marketing Manager.
    A sensing diode is integrated on-chip and provides accurate device temperature measurement. The TEMPsense MOSFET can easily integrate into existing designs with a monitoring circuit to turn the MOSFET off, protecting circuits from current overload and excessive temperature.
    Additionally, back-to-back Zener diodes protect the device gate-to-source connections from electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage up to 2,000 volts.
    The new device will meet the rigid Q101 automotive stress test qualification procedure at 175 degrees C upon production release. The Q101 certification process is designed to ensure high-reliability component performance in harsh automotive environments. The 175 degrees C temperature rating is necessary for engine compartment and other high-temperature applications.
    Samples are available immediately. Production quantities will be available in July 2000. Pricing is $0.80 each in 10,000-unit quantities. Data sheets are available on the IR Web site, http://www.irf.com.

    About International Rectifier

    International Rectifier is recognized as the leading supplier of power semiconductors and systems solutions. IR's patented HEXFET power MOSFETs, IGBTs and high-voltage ICs make electricity work smarter in industrial automation and controls, automotive electrical systems, consumer electronics, computers and peripherals, telecommunications, lighting, and satellite/launch vehicle applications.