The RF2146-000 is a resettable fuse, specifically a PolySwitch PPTC (Polymeric Positive Temperature Coefficient) device manufactured by Littelfuse. These devices are designed to protect electronic circuits from overcurrent conditions. When an overcurrent event occurs, the device's resistance increases dramatically, limiting the current flow and preventing damage to the protected circuit.
Applications
- USB port protection
- Battery packs
- Game consoles
- Portable electronics
- General electronic equipment
Features
- Resettable overcurrent protection
- Solid-state design
- Low profile
- Fast trip time
- RoHS compliant
Benefits
- Provides reliable overcurrent protection
- Resets automatically after the fault is cleared
- Eliminates the need for manual fuse replacement
- Helps to prevent damage to electronic components
- Reduces warranty costs
Additional Details
The RF2146-000 is available in a surface-mount package. The hold current (Ihold) and trip current (Itrip) are key parameters that define the device's performance. Ihold is the maximum current the device can carry without tripping, while Itrip is the current at which the device will trip and limit the current flow. The trip time depends on the magnitude of the overcurrent. After the overcurrent condition is removed, the device cools down and its resistance returns to its normal low value, allowing the circuit to resume operation. PPTC devices are typically non-flammable and do not produce sparks when they trip. The operating temperature range and specific electrical characteristics should be verified in the Littelfuse datasheet. The device's compact size allows for easy integration into densely populated circuit boards. Proper selection of the PPTC device based on the circuit's operating current and fault current is crucial for optimal protection. The Littelfuse PolySwitch series provides a wide range of PPTC devices to meet various application requirements.