7.3.14 Overcurrent Protection

For protection against load faults, the LMZ34202 incorporates output overcurrent protection. Applying a load that exceeds the regulator's overcurrent threshold causes the output to shut down when the output voltage falls below the PWRGD threshold. Following shutdown, the module periodically attempts to recover by initiating a soft-start power-up as shown in Figure 25. This is described as a hiccup mode of operation, whereby the module continues in a cycle of successive shutdown and power up until the load fault is removed. During this period, the average current flowing into the fault is significantly reduced which reduces power dissipation. Once the fault is removed, the module automatically recovers and returns to normal operation as shown in Figure 26.

Figure 25. Overcurrent Limiting

Figure 26. Removal of Overcurrent