1.5SMC120CA

TVS - Diodes

TVS diodes, also referred to as transorb diodes, are solid-state voltage-dependent devices that protect delicate static-sensitive electronics and integrated circuits from electrostatic discharge (ESD), electrical transients (lightning), and induced current surges. They are available in a variety of configurations and may be designed as Network TVS diodes or standoff TVS diodes. In this article, we discuss the application fields and working principles of the 1.5SMC120CA TVS diode used in voltage protection and transient suppression for various electronic circuits.

Application Field And Working Principle Of 1.5SMC120CA

The 1.5SMC120CA is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppression Diode (TVS) designed to protect against positive transients from events such as electrostatic discharge (ESD), lightening strikes and inductive switching. It is optimized to provide a very low response time that is as low as 1.0 nanoseconds. The 1.5SMC120CA is rated at a peak pulse power of 270 Watts and is able to withstand voltage transients up to 600 volts peak. It also features a peak pulse power rating of 2700W and an electrical clamping voltage of 18V.

The 1.5SMC120CA TVS diode functions in two stages. In the first stage, when the electrical pulse is greater than 18 volts, the diode enters the forward conduction mode, where it reduces the voltage to a level below the breakdown voltage. During the second stage, when the voltage is reduced to the breakdown voltage, the diode enters the reverse blocking mode and all of the excess energy is dissipated as heat in the junction. This prevents further voltage increase and provides protection to the connected circuits.

This TVS diode is suitable for a wide range of applications and is particularly useful for data line protection applications such as USB lines, communication lines, and HDMI cables. It can also be used in automotive, computer, and industrial applications, and for other transient voltage protection needs. For any application, it should be mounted to a properly heatsinked PCB that is securely grounded.

Conclusion

To conclude, the 1.5SMC120CA Transient Voltage Suppression Diode is a useful device for protecting circuits from ESD, voltage transients, and induced current surges. It is optimized for a very low response time and its two-stage operation helps efficiently dissipate the excess energy while protecting the components connected to it.