PCIe controller suits servers, embedded apps

Linear Technology Corp. has introduced a narrow, dual-slot PCIe hot swap controller for mid-range networking or storage servers and embedded applications.

The LTC4242 simplifies the application by eliminating complex software interfaces, said the company, yet provides a rugged and compact solution for independently controlling the main supplies (12V and 3.3V) and the auxiliary (3.3V AUX) supply on two slots. Each supply is continuously monitored for undervoltage and overcurrent faults. The 12V supply inputs are protected up to 20V, providing increased ruggedness.

Together with analog current limit amplifiers, electronic circuit breakers with adjustable response time provide dual-level overcurrent protection. Control for the auxiliary supplies is completely independent with separate ON and FAULT pins. The internal 3.3V AUX MOSFET features a low 0.25-ohm ON resistance which, together with the exposed backside metal on the QFN package and thermal shutdown protection, minimizes heat in the device. A separate Vcc pin allows the part to power up without the main supplies being present and the ability to ride out glitches in the auxiliary supply, ensuring continuous reliable operation.

Board space optimization
The 5-by-7mm QFN package is narrow enough to fit between the PCIe connectors if needed for board space optimization. The optional leaded package, 36-pin SSOP, is a proprietary package designed for narrow applications, requiring less than 8mm including the landing area for the pins. Despite the small form factor, the controller offers independent control of the main and auxiliary supplies for each port, separate FAULT outputs for main and auxiliary supplies, power-good outputs for each slot and board-present inputs for each slot.

Specified over the commercial and industrial temperature ranges, the LTC4242 is offered in 5-by-7mm 38-lead QFN and 36-lead SSOP packages. Available from stock, pricing begins at $3.30 each in 1,000 piece quantities.