Saturated transistor based temperature sensor

摘要

A system for measuring a temperature of an electrical device is provided. The system comprises a transistor and a microprocessor. The transistor is part of an electrical device and is operable to perform a first function for the electrical device. For example, the transistor is operable in a saturated state to control activation of a pre-charge circuit in an electronic power assisted steering system. The microprocessor is responsive to a voltage at the transistor. The voltage of the transistor varies as a function of temperature (i.e., heat emitted from the electrical device). The microprocessor is operative to determine a temperature of the electrical device as a function of the voltage, where the sensing of temperature of the electrical device is different than the first function.