Inrush current limiter for LED applications and automation systems

A new low-cost peak inrush current limiter, designed for inductive and capacitive loads, the ESB-101 has been unveiled by Powersolve. The ESB-101 Series accept AC inputs from 90VAC up to 265VAC, limit power-up currents and provide continuous operation up to 16A. The units are more than a simple NTC solution - the ESB-101 is a true current limiter and cuts off all peak currents when starting loads under practically every AC condition. Designed to provide high reliability and maintenance-free operation, it is fitted with an internal temperature fuse to prevent overheating should the bypass circuit fail. According to Powersolve’s managing director, Peter Clark: "Extreme conditions can occur on AC lines in the event of a break in the supply. When power returns, high current peaks will trip circuit breakers and in decentralised areas for example, this will often lead to increased maintenance costs as the breakers require re-setting. The ESB-101 prevents this happening." The ESB- 101 has an inrush limiting time as low as 300ms, a capacitance range of 1500µF to 4000µF and an operating temperature range of -40C to +70C, It can be wall or DIN-rail mounted, accepts 26 to 10 AWG wire with spring terminals and comes in an IP20 rated housing. The units are ideal for use in LED lighting, automotive systems and other applications using multiple switch mode power supplies, where short mains interruptions and start-ups can cause very high peak inrush currents.