The LM195 is a fast, monolithic power integrated circuit with complete overload protection. This device, which acts as a high gain power transistor, has included on the chip, current limiting, power limiting, and thermal overload protection making it virtually impossible to destroy from any type of overload. The inclusion of thermal limiting, a feature not easily available in discrete designs, provides virtually absolute protection against overload. Excessive power dissipation or inadequate heat sinking causes the thermal limiting circuitry to turn off the device preventing excessive heating. The LM195 offers a significant increase in reliability as well as simplifying power circuitry. In some applications, where protection is unusually difficult, such as switching regulators, lamp or solenoid drivers where normal power dissipation is low, the LM195 is especially advantageous. The LM195 is easy to use and only a few precautions need be observed. Excessive collector to emitter voltage can destroy the LM195 as with any power transistor. When the device is used as an emitter follower with low source impedance, it is necessary to insert a 5.0k resistor in series with the base lead to prevent possible emitter follower oscillations. Although the device is usually stable as an emitter follower, the resistor eliminates the possibility of trouble without degrading performance. Finally, since it has good high frequency response, supply bypassing is recommended.