Built-in Protection for Voltage Regulator

Whenever working with high voltage systems, there is a concern that components may fail during an arc or other transient event. Generally much care must be taken when selecting components, adding protective parts such as tranzorbs, and in defining the layout. Linear Technology has introduced an "overvoltage protection regulator" which might be useful. Since regulators seem to be vulnerable to the effects of high voltage transients, this is a welcome addition.

Maximum input voltage is 100V, and maximum output voltage is 80V. While this can come in handy, it is also good to know that for lower voltage operation, there is a wide safety margin.

The regulator has built-in protection for -30V or reverse input voltage, and it also has an inrush current limiter.

In applications where electronic systems must cope with high voltage surges of short duration, the LT4356 provides solid front-end protection for valuable, safety critical downstream components.

Protecting op amps against high voltage transients

Whenever high voltage is present in a system, arcs can cause damage through various mechanisms. One is to cause op amps in the system to fail.

Often, resistors, RC's, zeners, tranzorbs and the like are used. Here is another circuit protection technique to consider.

From the article referenced below,
"A reasonable approach disconnects the amplifier-output node from the output terminals for the period when the overload voltage exists on output terminals. "

http://www.edn.com/article/CA6486026.html