TVS or transient voltage suppressors are designed to protect electronic components against electrical disturbances. They work by clamping the voltage level to within safe limits and then dissipating the excess energy. The P4KE100A is a bidirectional over-voltage protection diode from NXP Semiconductors. This device is designed to protect against voltage transients caused by inductive switching, lightning and electrostatic discharge (ESD). It features a low stand-off voltage, fast response time, low leakage current, and double line-to-ground protection.
Application Field of The P4KE100A
The P4KE100A is widely used in a variety of applications for protection against ESD and voltage transients. It is suitable for use in AC power lines, computer and telecom equipment, industrial control systems, consumer electronics, and automotive electronics. It is also used for the primary protection of I/O ports, electrical motors, radio receivers, power regulators, and power supplies.
Working Principle of The P4KE100A
The P4KE100A is designed with a Zener-diode structure. When exposed to a high voltage, the diode conducts current and starts electron-hole avalanche. This occurs between the P-type and N-type layers. This limits the voltage and absorbs the excess energy. It has a high peak pulse current capability, allowing it to absorb high voltage spikes without the need for an additional external fuse.
The reverse leakage current is low and it increases with temperature. The device is bidirectional, which means it has symmetrical clamping characteristics for both positive and negative transients. In other words, it can protect both positive and negative nodes of the power supply from overvoltage conditions.
The P4KE100A has a fast response time, which allows it to react quickly to sudden voltage spikes. It can achieve a high current rating with a low voltage drop, which helps to reduce power dissipation when normal operating voltage is present. It also features a low stand-off voltage, making it suitable for use with low voltage circuits.
Conclusion
The P4KE100A is a versatile TVS diode that can be used to protect sensitive circuits against voltage transients caused by inductive switching, lightning, and ESD. Its fast response time, low stand-off voltage, and bidirectional characteristics make it an excellent choice for a variety of applications.