Thermal protection prevents damage to the IC when heavy-overload or short-circuit faults are present for extended periods of time. The TPS206x implements a thermal sensing to monitor the operating junction temperature of the power distribution switch. In an overcurrent or short-circuit condition, the junction temperature rises due to excessive power dissipation. Once the die temperature rises above a minimum of 135°C due to overcurrent conditions, the internal thermal sense circuitry turns the power switch off, thus preventing the power switch from damage. Hysteresis is built into the thermal sense circuit, and after the device has cooled approximately 10°C, the switch turns back on. The switch continues to cycle in this manner until the load fault or input power is removed. The OCx open-drain output is asserted (active low) when an overtemperature shutdown or overcurrent occurs.