Patent ID: 6108183
Filing Date: 2000-08-22
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
A current limiter comprising:a) a power switch for receiving input power from a power source and passing at least a portion of the input power to an output;b) a current sense mechanism coupled to said power switch for sensing current flowing through the current limiter and for providing a first current flow signal related to the current flow through the current limiter;c) a control mechanism coupled to said power switch, said control mechanism being operative to cause said power switch to reduce the current flow when said first current flow signal indicates that the current flow exceeds a first current flow level;d) a temperature sensing mechanism coupled to said control mechanism and being operative to provide a temperature signal related to a monitored temperature; ande) wherein said control mechanism is operative to cause said power switch to block power transmission when said temperature signal indicates that the monitored temperature exceeds a first temperature level, said control mechanism also being operative to cause said power switch to cease blocking power when said temperature signal indicates that the monitored temperature has fallen below a second temperature level.