This device combines three popular functions, PoweronReset, Watchdog Timer, and Supply VoltageSupervision in one package. This combination lowerssystem cost, reduces board space requirements, andincreases reliability.The watchdog timer provides an independent protectionmechanism for microcontrollers. During a systemfailure, the device will respond with a RESET signalafter a selectable time out interval. The user selects theinterval from three preset values. Once selected, theinterval does not change, even after cycling the power.The user’s system is protected from low voltage conditionsby the device’s low VCC detection circuitry. WhenVCC falls below the minimum VCC trip point, the systemis reset. RESET is asserted until VCC returns to properoperating levels and stabilizes. Five industry standardVTRIP thresholds are available, however, Intersil’sunique circuits allow the threshold to be reprogrammedto meet custom requirements or to fine-tune the thresholdfor applications requiring higher precision.The device utilizes Intersil’s proprietary Direct Write™cell for the watchdog timer control bits and the VTRIPstorage element, providing a minimum endurance of100,000 write cycles and a minimum data retention of100 years.