Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a current limiting circuit for controlled semiconductor power components, in particular to a current limiting circuit for power transistors which is independent of its voltage supply. A current limiting circuit for controlled semiconductor power components, in particular for power transistors, with a sense resistor, which is connected in series with the main current path of the controlled semiconductor power component, generating a voltage drop proportional to the current through the controlled semiconductor power component. A current mirror circuit device has a first current source device for generating a first current between a first and a second reference-ground potential. A second current source device generates a second current between the control potential of the control terminal of the semiconductor power component and a third reference-ground potential. A current source coupling circuit couples the first and second current source devices in response to the voltage drop of the sense resistor. When the voltage drop is greater than a predetermined value, the second current, for the purpose of lowering the control potential, is increased in order to limit the current through the semiconductor power component.

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First Claim