1KSMB22AHM4G Circuit Protection

TVS (Transient Voltage Suppression) diodes are among the most widely used and sought-after diode-based components in the modern electronics industry. As their name implies, TVS diodes are specifically designed for short duration overvoltage protection, protecting electronic circuits from the potentially damaging effects of electrical transients. One of the most widely used TVS diodes is the 1KSMB22AHM4G, a 2A, 140V model with low leakage current. This article will discuss the application field and working principle of the 1KSMB22AHM4G.

Application field of 1KSMB22AHM4G
The 1KSMB22AHM4G is a unidirectional device that is designed to protect equipment from destructive overvoltages that are caused by inductive kickback on switching lines, power cross, and power fault conditions. It is available in a SMA package and is suitable for a variety of different uses, which include data-line protection in telecommunication networks, protection of computers, external drives, and other digital and consumer electronics, as well as automotive applications. It is also used as a line-to-ground clamp, as well as anode and gate protection in semiconductor circuits.

Working Principle
The general working principle behind the 1KSMB22AHM4G is fairly simple. When an overvoltage occurs, the diode kicks on, allowing the voltage to pass through it at a certain level. In the case of this model, the voltage clamping level is set at 140V. This means that if the voltage reaching the diode is 140V or less, the diode will allow it to pass through unhindered. However, if the voltage is higher than 140V, the diode will effectively “clamp” the voltage at that level, protecting the electronic components downstream from the diode.

In order to achieve this level of protection, the 1KSMB22AHM4G utilizes a combination of a zener diode and a PN junction diode, which are connected in series. When the voltage across the diode passes the breakdown voltage of the PN junction, the zener diode starts conducting, effectively clamping the voltage and diverting it away from the PN junction. This mechanism allows the 1KSMB22AHM4G to provide protection from destructive overvoltages, while still allowing normal voltage to pass unhindered.

Conclusion
The 1KSMB22AHM4G is an effective and popular TVS diode that is used for short duration overvoltage protection in a wide range of applications. Its combination of low leakage current and 140V breakdown voltage make it an ideal choice for data-line protection, as well as for line-to-ground clamping and semiconductor circuit protection. Its simple working principle of a zener diode and PN junction diode combination allows it to provide the necessary level of protection while still allowing normal voltage to pass unhindered.