1N6123

TVS - DIODES

1N6123 Application Field and Working Principle

TVS - Diode, otherwise known as Transient Voltage Suppression Diode, is a type of Zener diode specifically designed to protect electronics from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electro static discharge (ESD). The 1N6123 is a popular model in this range, with a reverse stand-off Voltage of 18V. This paper will analyze the application field and working principle of 1N6123.

Application Field

These diodes can be applied in a range of different circuits. Firstly, they are commonly used as a protective component in integrated circuits due to their ability to provide protection from surge voltages. In this instance, the 1N6123 can act as a clamp that moves the potential over-voltage to a safe level. As such, these diodes can provide a significant level of protection to downstream components in the circuit.

Additionally, these diodes are widely used in communications systems. This is due to their ability to reduce the noise levels that interfere with sensitive signals. By passing the signals through a diode, the signal can be effectively filtered. This can be applied to a range of communications systems, from digital networks to power supply applications, to reduce the impact of interference from external sources.

Working Principle

The 1N6123 operates on the principle of avalanche breakdown. This occurs when a current passes through a reverse-biased diode at a sufficient voltage level. The voltage level where this avalanche occurs is termed the breakdown voltage which is equal to the Zener voltage for the particular diode. The diodes are designed to have a breakdown voltage lower than the threshold voltage of the circuit so that the avalanche breakdown occurs before the circuit overloads.

When the avalanche breakdown occurs, the current through the diode increases rapidly. This rapid increase in current creates a spike in the voltage, or a surge, which is immediately clamped by the diode. As such, the surge is dissipated into the diode, preventing the voltage from passing through to the rest of the circuit.

Conclusion

The 1N6123 is a popular type of TVS diode, with a reverse stand-off voltage of 18V. It has a number of applications, from providing protection from surge voltages to reducing noise in a range of communication systems. It works on the principle of avalanche breakdown, where the current through the diode increases rapidly when the breakdown voltage is exceeded. This surge is then clamped by the diode, preventing damage to downstream components in the circuit.