The TPS22946 is an ultralow power load switch that provides protection to systems and loads in high-current conditions. The device contains a 300-mΩ current-limited P-channel MOSFET that can operate over an input voltage range of 1.62 V to 5.5 V. The switch is controlled by an on/off input (ON), which can interface directly with low-voltage control signals. The TPS22946 includes thermal shutdown protection that prevents damage to the device when a continuous over-current condition causes excessive heating by turning off the switch. When the switch current reaches the maximum limit, the TPS22946 operates in a constant-current mode to prohibit excessive currents from causing damage. The current limit can be selected using the CL input: a high CL input sets the current limit to 155 mA, a low CL input sets the current limit to 70 mA, and a floating CL input sets the current limit to 30 mA. If the constant current condition persists after 10 ms, the switch is turned off and the fault signal pin (OC) is pulled low. The TPS22946 has an auto-restart feature which turns the switch on again after 70 ms if the ON pin is still active. If the TPS22946 remains in an over-current condition for 5 seconds, the device shuts off until it is turned on again by setting the ON control signal off and then on. If the device is used to protect an LDO, the inrush current required by the LDO at startup can, in some cases, exceed the current limit and initiate a blanking (current limiting) condition. The TPS22946 provides allowance for this scenario during startup of the LDO by temporarily increasing the current limit to 435 mA for 8 ms after the load switch is enabled. The TPS22946 is available in space-saving 6-pin DSBGA (YZP) package. The device is characterized for operation over the free-air temperature range of –40°C to 85°C.