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  • What is the main function of the Trigger Zone (TZ) module?

    * Question

    What is the main function of the Trigger Zone (TZ) module?

    * Answer

    The Trigger Zone (TZ) module is a safety and protection feature found in many microcontrollers and digital signal controllers (especially TI C2000 family). Its main function is to provide fast hardware-based response to fault or protection events, ensuring safe system operation.

    Main Function

    The TZ module monitors external or internal signals (called “trip/trigger inputs”) and immediately forces outputs of the PWM (Pulse Width Modulator) or other control logic into a predefined safe state whenever a fault condition occurs.

    Key Capabilities

    Fault Detection & Handling

    Detects overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, or other fault signals from comparators, protection ICs, or sensors.

    Input can come from external GPIO pins or on-chip analog comparators.

    Immediate PWM Override

    Shuts down or reconfigures PWM outputs within a few clock cycles.

    Ensures motors, power converters, or inverters are protected from damage.

    Configurable Response

    Can force outputs to logic high, low, or high-impedance (Hi-Z).

    Supports cycle-by-cycle trips (temporary disable per switching cycle) or one-shot trips (latched until software clears the fault).

    Integration with Control Peripherals

    Works tightly with ePWM (enhanced PWM) modules.

    Can trigger interrupts so the CPU/firmware can log and process the fault.

    Example Applications

    Motor drives: Stops PWM immediately on overcurrent to prevent motor winding damage.

    Power inverters & converters: Shuts down switching when an overvoltage/undervoltage is detected.

    Automotive systems: Provides hardware failsafe if control logic misbehaves.

    In summary:
    The Trigger Zone (TZ) module’s main function is to act as a fast, hardware-level fault handler that instantly forces system outputs (typically PWMs) into a safe predefined state, protecting power electronics, motors, and other critical loads from damage.

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