Texas Instruments Incorporated
COMMUNICATION INTERFACE BUFFER WITH HOT-SWAP PROTECTION

Abstract:

A communication interface buffer comprises: a data bus connection adapted to be coupled to a bus interface contact; and a ground. The communication interface buffer also comprises an output transistor with a first current terminal, a second current terminal and a control terminal, the first current terminal coupled to the data bus connection, the second current terminal coupled to ground, and the control terminal adapted to receive a drive signal. The communication interface buffer also comprises a control circuit coupled to the control terminal of the output transistor, wherein the control circuit is configured to: turn off the output transistor during a first interval that starts when the data bus connection is coupled to the bus interface contact; and turn on the output transistor after the first interval is complete.