MMT05A260T3 Circuit Protection

TVS – Thyristors

Thyristors are semiconductor devices with three or more terminals. They are also known as a silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs). Thyristors are mainly used as an electronic control switch of electric power in various electrical circuits. This article will discuss the application fields and working principles of MMT05A260T3, a common thyristor.

Application Fields of MMT05A260T3

MMT05A260T3 is a Gate Controlled Thryistor(GCT) ,which applies in the circuits of high voltages or high currents. The MMT05A260T3 is widely used in rectifying, inverting, oscillating, chopping, motor control, power converters, etc. Also, the MMT05A260T3 is a switch controlled by CMOS gate since its low ON current is determined by the gate current.

Working Principle of MMT05A260T3

MMT05A260T3 consists of three junctions(J1, J2 and J3). In the conduction part, when the gate voltage is applied, J1 and J2 will form. This will enable current to flow from anode to cathode side of J2. Once the main current is more than the threshold voltage, J3 will be activated and the main current will flow from anode to cathode side, resulting in full conduction. In order to turn-off the device, the gate current must be over 16mA.

The turn-off process, however, is not that simple. When there is no positive gate current, J2 is inhibited and J3 is turned off. This, in turn, prevents the flow of the main current from anode to cathode side. This switch from the on state to off state will take place instantaneously.

In conclusion, MMT05A260T3 has various application fields with its low ON current controlled by the gate current. Moreover, it has a quick response in its switch from on state to off state. This makes the MMT05A260T3 a perfect choice as a thyristor in electronic circuits.