TVS Diodes

MCC's TVS Diodes: Key Components for Electronic Safety

TVS diodes quickly clamp voltage spikes, safeguarding sensitive components from damage. Their low clamping voltage improves overvoltage protection while maintaining signal integrity.

MCC offers TVS diodes ranging from 150W to 30kW, suitable for various applications, ensuring effective protection against voltage spikes caused by ESD, lightning surges, inductive switching, or grid fluctuations. These diodes are available in multiple packages — low-profile SMD, surface mount, high power, and axial leaded — allowing for easy integration and optimization for specific applications.

Modern devices need reliable protection from harmful voltage spikes and surges, so MCC provides a broad selection of TVS diodes with peak pulse power ratings from 200W to 6,600W and peak currents from 15kW to 30kW.

Nearly 40% of MCC’s TVS products are AEC-Q101 qualified, ensuring robust performance in demanding applications. Headquartered in the US, MCC utilizes an integrated device manufacturer (IDM) model to maintain control and quality assurance from materials through final delivery of TVS and other semiconductor solutions to customers worldwide.

FAQs

What are TVS diodes used for?

Because of their rapid response and reliable performance, TVS diodes are essential for protecting sensitive circuits in a range of systems and devices.

Commonly used in power supply circuits, data lines, automotive electronics, industrial equipment, and telecommunications applications, TVS diodes enhance safety and reliability while offering design versatility.

How do TVS diodes function?

Simply put, TVS diodes clamp excessive voltage to a safe level when overvoltage is detected.

TVS diodes are used in reverse parallel with the protected circuit. When the voltage exceeds its breakdown voltage, the TVS rapidly “clamps” the excess energy, changing from a non-conductive to conductive state to divert the current away from the sensitive components.

After the surge event has passed, the TVS diode returns to its high-resistance, non-conductive state, and normal operation continues.

How do I choose the right TVS diode?

Several parameters should be considered before specifying the ideal TVS diode for the device and application, including:

• Working voltage - the voltage of the TVS in its normal operational state
• Breakdown voltage (VBR) - the voltage at which the TVS begins to conduct and limit the voltage
• Peak pulse current (IPP) - the max. amount of current that flows during a pulse
• Peak pulse power (PPP) - the max. rate at which energy is transferred during a pulse without damaging the TVS
• Clamping voltage (VC) - the level at which the diode will start conducting to protect the circuit

What Are Some Tips for Choosing TVS Diodes?

• Choose the reverse working voltage slightly higher than the system’s nominal voltage. MCC recommends increasing the reverse working voltage (VRWM) slightly when choosing a TVS diode to avoid the avalanche breakdown stage. For example, a 12V line should be protected by a 14V TVS.
• Select a peak pulse power rating based on testing requirements and environmental conditions.
• Identify the package appropriate for size, power, and form factor needs.

The most common cause of TVS failure is when current flow exceeds the diode’s peak pulse power rating.

What is clamping voltage for a TVS diode?

The level at which the diode will start protecting the circuit, the clamping voltage should be low enough to prevent damage to the protected components but high enough to avoid false triggers during normal operation. Understanding the peak pulse power or duration can help engineers determine the appropriate clamping voltage for the application.

Key Benefits of TVS Diodes

MCC TVS Diodes: Advantages for Your Electronic Designs

Enhanced Circuit Protection in a Range of Package Options

MCC utilizes advanced technology in the design and manufacturing of its TVS diodes. This enables the production of devices with superior clamping performance and energy absorption capabilities. These properties are essential for safeguarding electronic systems from voltage surges caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD), lightning strikes, and power fluctuations.

TVS diodes come in various packages to cater to a range of designs and market needs. Common options include:

• Low-Profile Packages: Ideal for compact designs.
• Surface-Mount Packages: Suitable for various mounting needs.
• High-Power Packages: Designed for demanding applications.
• Axial Leaded Packages: Offer flexibility in specialized designs.

Tailored Solutions for Diverse Applications

MCC’s product offerings are designed to cater to a wide array of applications:

• Automotive Solutions: MCC’s auto-grade TVS diodes are specifically engineered to withstand the rigorous demands of the automotive industry. With peak pulse power ratings that span from 200W to 6,600W and AEC-Q101 qualification, these components are vital for protecting sensitive electronics in vehicles.
• Industrial and Commercial Applications: For industrial settings, MCC's TVS diodes handle power levels ranging from 200W to 6,600W. These devices are available in various packages, including SOD-123 and SMA, providing versatility for different design requirements.
• High-Power Applications: MCC also offers robust solutions for high-power environments, with TVS diodes capable of managing peak currents from 15kW to 30kW. These components are ideal for applications exposed to extreme transient interference.

Choose MCC TVS Diodes for Unmatched Performance

Find the Right TVS for the Job

Additional Resources