Hot-plugging refers to attaching a powered up voltage source to the input power or battery connector of an electronic device. Voltage transient spikes from hot-plugging can damage the integrated circuits inside the device. This application note explains the root cause for these voltage transients and provides potential designs to prevent these transients from damaging the integrated circuits (ICs) in the electronics.
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When hot-plugging a higher than 5 V USB adapter or multi-cell battery into an electronic device, it is not usual to see some voltage spikes and or ringing. If the IC pin that is connected to the input power or battery connector does not have enough voltage rating, the IC can be permanently damaged. This application note explains and identifies the root case of the voltage spikes and or ringing. In addition, this application explains how a properly sized resistor and series capacitor (RC) and or a diode can be used to prevent the device from being damaged.