1N8173

TVS - Diodes

The 1N8173 is a TVS, or Transient Voltage Suppressor, diode. It is designed to provide high performance protection for Power Distribution networks against transient voltage spikes. The 1N8173 specifically is designed for use in automotive, industrial, telecommunications, and medical equipment applications.

When exposed to a short high voltage transient, typically from a motor start-up, lightning strike, or electro-magnetic pulse (EMP), it will respond quickly and begin to clamp the voltage. It can quickly limit the rise time and amplitude of spikes, thus protecting the devices behind it from being damaged from the energy.

The 1N8173 is composed of two silicon diodes in series to enhance its capability and add more protection during more intensive, extended-duration high voltage events. It is capable of withstanding a peak pulse power of 700 watts and has an operating temperature range from -55 °C to +155 °C for greater accuracy and reliability.

This diode also has a reverse leakage current of 100 µA maximum at 25 °C junction temperature, however this will increase depending on the temperature, so the 1N8173 should not be used in high-temperature applications which require low forward voltage drops. Additionally, the 1N8173 has a maximum clamping voltage at 16V which is lower than the similar 1N8172 series.

The 1N8173 also has quite a good working principle. Once a voltage spike is detected, it will quickly limit the rise time and the amplitude of the spike. It does this by connecting two series of two connected (in series) silicon diodes inside a single package. This allows it to offer extra protection during extended high-voltage events. When the current spikes the two series of diodes conduct, thus creating a low resistance path for any extra current.

Therefore, the excess current is diverted which limits the voltage spike until the diodes recover, thus preventing further damage. This diode is designed for use in environments with high ESD, such as motor vehicles and industrial equipment, as it provides reliable protection even in the most hostile of environments.