CC18: Operating temperature ratings
The maximum allowable operating temperature of the board is governed by several factors.To determine the highest permissible operating temperature you need to evaluate each factor separately and then use the worst (lowest temperature) answer.
The factors that must be taken into account are:
- The semiconductors on the board have a maximum ambient temperature rating of 70°C.
- The chip driving the outputs will also self-heat, and eventually fail if run too hot for too long. Evaluating this factor is discussed under CC18 External digital outputs
- Hot components fail faster than cool components. For semiconductors, lowering the temperature by 10°C doubles the life time.
The minimum operating temperature is -40°C with the proviso that there be no water condensation. Conformally coated boards can be supplied to special order to minimize the effects of condensation.