15KPA130-B

15KPA130-B is a specially designed Zener diode, or transient-voltage-suppression (TVS) diode, that is used in reverse-bias configurations to clamp voltage to a certain level and prevent damage to delicate components. This type of diode is most often used in circuit scenarios where direct lightning strikes can cause electricity to drastically surge in levels, as the 15KPA130-B is designed with a large peak pulse power capacity in order to protect circuits in these types of scenarios.

The 15KPA130-B Zener diode is specified to have an exceptionally low reverse leakage current of less than 0.1 µA, a reverse breakdown voltage of 5.5 V, and a peak pulse current of 250 A. It also features an operating temperature range of -55°C to +155°C, along with a stand-off voltage range of 4 V to 7 V. This Zener diode also has a built-in protection diode that helps to reduce leakage during lightning currents.

The application field for the 15KPA130-B TVS diode is mainly for low or medium power electronic systems such as computers, communication equipment, automobiles, telecommunication switching equipment, medical technology, and industrial control systems. It is also particularly useful for providing overvoltage protection to power supply circuits, especially when installed in either a series or a parallel configuration.

The working principle of the 15KPA130-B is to clamp voltage to a certain level when the reverse voltage reaches the Zener voltage. While most diodes are designed to block current from flowing in the opposite direction, the 15KPA130-B Zener diode is designed to allow a small amount of current to flow in the opposite direction. The Zener voltage refers to the voltage value at which the diode starts to allow a small flow of current to pass through it. As this flow of current increases, the diode will “breakdown” and the current will increase linearly with the applied voltage, up to a certain voltage.

When the transient voltage exceeds the breakdown voltage of the 15KPA130-B, the diode will “clamp” the voltage to a forward voltage level. This is the essence of the TVS diode structure, and it is why the 15KPA130-B is such a great choice for overvoltage protection. In essence, the Zener diode acts like a capacitor, allowing excess voltage to be stored in the diode until the voltage returning to a safe level.

The 15KPA130-B is able to do this thanks to the properties of avalanche breakdown and variable capacitance. When the voltage reaches the Zener voltage, avalanche breakdown occurs and the current of the diode is increased exponentially. This increase in current creates an additional electric field across the diode junction, resulting in the creation of a variable capacitance. This capacitance works to clamp the voltage, allowing excess voltage to be stored in the diode until the voltage drops back down to a safe level.

The 15KPA130-B is a great choice for protecting sensitive electronics from transient voltage spikes and surges. Its low leakage current and large peak pulse power capacity make it exceptionally useful in protecting against lightning strike scenarios. Additionally, its wide temperature range and its ability to be used in either a series or parallel configuration make it an ideal choice for low or medium power electronic systems.