Load short-circuit detection using awh-bridge driving circuit and an

Abstract

A load short-circuit state detection circuit has a driver including X and Y terminals between which an inductive load is connected and receiving drive signals. The detection circuit further includes a first transistor whose base is connected to the X terminal and whose collector is supplied with a voltage, a second transistor whose base is connected to the Y terminal and whose collector is also supplied with a voltage, a first constant current circuit connected to an emitter of the first transistor through a first resistor and a second constant current circuit connected to an emitter of the second transistor through a second resistor. A comparator is provided for comparing a voltage of a node between the first resistor and the first constant current circuit with a voltage of a node between the second resistor and the second constant current circuit. An exclusive OR gate circuit receives one of the drive signals supplied to the driver and an output signal of the comparator and executes an exclusive OR operation on these signals. The comparator is capable of detecting a potential difference between the two input signals.