MALCE16AE3

A TVS diode, also termed a surge-protector diode, is a device used to protect against voltage transients and voltage spikes that can damage electronic equipment. The MALCE16AE3 is a rectangular TVS diode that offers excellent surge protection for high-speed data lines. It moves in two directions, both to clamp voltages in excess of the breakdown voltage, as well as to block lower voltages, depending on the application.

MALCE16AE3 Application Fields

The MALCE16AE3 is well suited for applications in telecom systems. It provides excellent ESD protection and transient protection against lightning strike surge pulses for data line protection, such as telecom lines and sending and receiving antennas, as well as in power conversion interfaces and other systems susceptible to high-frequency electrical transient disruptions. It is also used in highly sensitive industrial and scientific equipment to protect against ESD and transient voltage surges.

MALCE16AE3 Working Principle

The MALCE16AE3 works according to a technology known as “avalanche breakdown”. When a voltage higher than the rated breakdown voltage of the diode is applied, the reverse-biased diode becomes moderately conductive, allowing the rapid passages of electrons into the diode. This avalanche effect causes a large current to be drawn from the input, which quickly clamps the voltage at or near the rated breakdown voltage of the diode. Different types of TVS diodes are available with a range of breakdown voltages depending on the application.

Apart from being used to protect against transients and spikes, the MALCE16AE3 can also be used to temporarily boost the supply voltage of a device. The diode can be used to quickly bring the voltage to a level which is sufficient to turn on the device, after which the current continues to flow without any assistance from the diode. This can be useful for devices which require a higher than normal voltage to turn on, such as some computers and monitors.

Conclusion

The MALCE16AE3 is a rectangular TVS diode that provides excellent surge protection for high-speed data lines, telecom systems, power conversion interfaces and scientific equipment. It works on the principle of avalanche breakdown, whereby it rapidly clamps the voltage at or near the rated breakdown voltage of the diode in order to provide protection against transients and voltage spikes. The diode can also be used to temporarily boost the supply voltage of a device, allowing it to be switched on more easily.