MXSMCG14AE3 Circuit Protection

TVS-diodes are a type of semiconductor diode that can be used to protect against transient voltage and power disturbances, such as electrostatic discharge (ESD) and current surges. The MXSMCG14AE3 by Microchip is a unidirectional, low capacitance Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) diode array specifically designed to protect high-speed data interfaces. It provides ESD (IEC 61000-4-2, ±8 kV contact discharge, ±15 kV air-gap discharge) protection up to the maximum ratings of the device.

Application Field

Due to the array’s low capacitance, the MXSMCG14AE3 is well suited for protection of high-speed data interfaces, such as HDMI, Thunderbolt, USB, DVI, DisplayPort, Fiber Channel, 1394 (FireWire) and LVDS. It has a working voltage range of 3.3 V~15 V and is available in a range of packages, including the 0.53 mm pitch, 5-pin WLCSP and AEC-Q101 qualified.

Working Principle

To provide transient protection, the MXSMCG14AE3 utilizes a plurality of separately tunable TVS diodes. This array has two tunable devices – an ESD protection device and a fast-acting TVS device – which are connected in parallel to the sensitive signal line. The VIORM (Voltage (Standoff) for IORM, Irreversible) is adjustable. When over-voltage or surge events occur, the device will clamp the voltage down and be discharged with little or no damage. This ensures that the system is protected from the damaging effects of over-voltage.

Conclusion

The MXSMCG14AE3 TVS diode array from Microchip provides robust protection for high-speed data interfaces against ESD, surge and over-voltage conditions. Its low capacitance, wide operating voltage range and range of packages provide design flexibility to ensure that the device meets the application’s specific needs. The array utilizes two tunable devices – an ESD protection device and a fast-acting TVS device – to provide optimal protection.