PCMCIA slot power controller — what it does
The Texas Instruments TPS2220BDBR is a dual-output, high-side power-distribution switch designed specifically for PCMCIA card slots. It integrates a 4:2 input-to-output multiplexer that selects among 3.3 V, 5 V, and 12 V load rails, routing the chosen voltage to two independent outputs, each rated for 1 A continuous. A serial interface controls the output configuration, and a status flag reports fault conditions back to the host controller — essential for hot-swap card insertion where the system must know when a slot is powered or faulted.
Protection features and thermal limits
Built-in fault protection includes fixed current limiting and over-temperature shutdown. The current limit is non-adjustable — set internally to protect the PCMCIA connector and card from sustained overcurrent events without external sense resistors. The 95 mOhm typical Rds(on) is specified for the 24-SSOP package.
New production designs should select a current-generation PCMCIA or general-purpose power switch from the TI portfolio.
