An integrated communications subsystem (ICSS) includes a pulse-width modulator which drives a power stage, such as a motor. The pulse-width modulator is configured shut off the power stage when the pulse-width modulator receives a trip signal from a logic circuit of the ICSS. The logic circuit can easily be reprogrammed to send a trip signal only when certain error conditions are detected. Moreover, the ICSS contains one or more filters which can adjust the sensitivity of the logic circuit to error signals, enabling the ICSS to distinguish between true errors which require shutdown and glitches, which can be ignored during operation of the ICSS.