What is UVLO & OVLO ?

 UVLO:

UVLO:

Undervoltage lockout (UVLO) is a protection mechanism commonly used in electronic circuits, particularly in power supply systems. It is designed to ensure that the circuitry operates within safe voltage levels by preventing operation or disabling certain functions when the input voltage drops below a specified threshold.

The purpose of undervoltage lockout is to protect sensitive components and prevent unreliable or erratic operation that could occur when the voltage is too low. It helps to maintain the proper functionality and integrity of the circuitry, as well as prevent damage to the system.

Here's how undervoltage lockout typically works:

Voltage Threshold: 

A minimum voltage threshold is set as a reference level. This threshold represents the minimum acceptable voltage level for the system to operate reliably.

Monitoring Circuit:

 A monitoring circuit continuously checks the input voltage level. It compares the input voltage with the predetermined threshold.

Enable/Disable Function: 

If the input voltage falls below the threshold, the undervoltage lockout circuit triggers an enable/disable function. This function can disable certain circuitry or prevent the system from turning on. It may involve interrupting power to specific components or disabling the overall operation of the circuit.

Recovery: 

Once the input voltage rises above the undervoltage threshold, the enable/disable function is deactivated, allowing the circuitry to resume normal operation.

By implementing undervoltage lockout, electronic systems can avoid potential issues and damage caused by operating outside the specified voltage range. It helps ensure the reliable operation of the system and prevents potential malfunctions or data corruption that can occur due to insufficient power supply.

The above  graphical representation of the different modes a device typically operates in.

OVLO: Overvoltage lockout (OVLO) is a protection mechanism used in electronic circuits and power supply systems to prevent operation or disable certain functions when the input voltage exceeds a specified threshold. The purpose of overvoltage lockout is to safeguard the circuitry from potentially damaging or unsafe voltage levels. It ensures that the system operates within its designed voltage range and avoids overvoltage conditions that could lead to component failure or malfunction.

Here's how overvoltage lockout typically works: Voltage Threshold: A maximum voltage threshold is set as a reference level. This threshold represents the maximum allowable voltage for the system to operate safely. Monitoring Circuit: A monitoring circuit continuously monitors the input voltage level. It compares the input voltage with the predetermined threshold. Enable/Disable Function: If the input voltage exceeds the overvoltage threshold, the overvoltage lockout circuit triggers an enable/disable function. This function can disable specific circuitry or prevent the system from turning on. It may involve interrupting power to certain components or disabling the overall operation of the circuit. Recovery: Once the input voltage falls back within the acceptable range, the enable/disable function is deactivated, allowing the circuitry to resume normal operation.

By incorporating overvoltage lockout, electronic systems can protect themselves from potential damage or instability caused by excessive voltage. It acts as a safety measure, preventing the system from operating in unsafe conditions and safeguarding sensitive components against overvoltage events.

It's worth noting that specific implementations of overvoltage lockout may vary depending on the circuit design and intended application. The voltage thresholds and response times can be adjusted based on the system's requirements and the level of protection desired.