LC170 Circuit Protection

TVS - Diodes: LC170 Application Field and Working Principle

Introduction

Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) diodes are used widely to protect components from high voltage induced by lightning strikes and electrostatic discharge (ESD). The LC170 is a TVS diode designed to protect high-speed signal lines from being damaged by ESD. The LC170 series device is usually packaged in small surface mount packages such as SOT-23 Single-Line and Dual-Line.

Application Field

The LC170 series provides ideal ESD protection for port interface applications such as USB, HDMI, and other high-speed communication systems. Due to its low capacitance and excellent speed characteristics, the LC170 series device is also suitable for protection of sensitive digital logic and ICs. In addition, the LC170 series can also be used in applications such as upstream power distribution and audio/video interfaces.

Working Principle

The LC170 series is a high-speed, low-capacitance diode based on avalanche breakdown technology. Under normal conditions, the device is non-conducting and maintains a high impedance. When the input voltage exceeds its withstanding voltage, it will enter the conduction state and its impedance will decrease. As a result of the avalanche breakdown, the voltage temperature coefficient of the device is significantly lower than that of the traditional Zener diode design.

At the moment of entering the conduction state, the LC170 series device will quickly divert a large amount of current away from the sensitive signal line and effectively protect it from further damage. In order to provide even better protection, the LC170 series also features a low-capacitance design to prevent signal distortion.

Conclusion

The LC170 series of TVS diodes provide an ideal solution for protecting sensitive signal lines from damage caused by ESD events. With its patented avalanche breakdown technology, the LC170 series is able to provide excellent protection with no signal distortion. The LC170 series is suitable for protection of high speed communication systems, as well as audio/video interfaces and sensitive digital logic ICs.