1SMA13CAT3

TVS-Diodes play a critical and protectional role in the modern electronics world. The 1SMA13CAT3 from Littelfuse is one such product. It is a 13-volt Transient Voltage Suppressor diode that helps protect sensitive electronic components from harmonic and electrical damage.

The 1SMA13CAT3 is used for protecting against surges up to 10 kV and other transients caused by lightning strikes and switching transients. With an avalanche breakdown voltage of 13 V and a glass passivated junction, this device is able to handle high peak current with excellent clamping. It is rated for a maximum pulse current of 100 A and a peak impedance of 4 Ohms.

In terms of performance, the 1SMA13CAT3 has an ultra-low 2.4 ns response time, a surge current of 1A/μs max, and a 1 KHz pulsed current. It is also RoHS compliant and meets UL, CAN and JEDEC standards. The device is offered in a wide variety of packaging options, with the lead spacings ranging from 2.54 mm - 5.08 mm. In terms of temperature, it can operate from -55⁰C to 125⁰C.

The 1SMA13CAT3 is designed for use in a wide range of applications and is suitable for overcurrent and surge protection in a variety of systems. It is used in consumer electronic products, automotive systems, and a variety of industrial devices. Other potential applications include processor and motherboard protection in computers and peripherals, as well as protection from transient currents in IOT and embedded designs.

The working principle of the 1SMA13CAT3 is similar to that of other transient voltage suppression diodes. When an overvoltage occurs, the device\'s avalanche breakdown voltage is exceeded, and the 1SMA13CAT3 conducts, clamping the voltage and conducting a finite amount of current. This current is dissipated in the form of heat by the device, thus limiting the over-voltage. The device then returns to its non-conducting state once the transient has ended.

The 1SMA13CAT3 has become an increasingly popular choice for protection against transient voltage spikes, and it can be found in numerous electronic devices. Its impressive performance, superb surge current capability, and variety of packaging options make it an ideal solution for protecting sensitive components.