TVS - Diodes

TVS (transient voltage suppressor) diodes are used in electronics as a protective device against transient voltage events and surges. A TVS diode works by "clamping" or limiting the electrical voltage in a circuit to a specific level. It is often used in an AC/DC power supply or battery charger, a lightning protection device, and a variety of other applications.

The SA43CAHR0G is a surface mount transient voltage suppressor diode from Semtech Corporation. This device is designed to protect resistive, capacitive, and inductive loads from transients. It features a low capacitance of 8 pF, maximum working voltage of 28 V, and peak pulse power rating of 43 A.

Application Fields

The SA43CAHR0G is suitable for a wide range of applications. In general, it is suitable for applications where sensitive electronics need to be protected from surges or transients, such as consumer electronics, digital cameras, USB and other interface devices, telecommunication systems, automotive electronics and power supplies.

Working Principle

A TVS diode operates by limiting the amount of current that can pass through it. It works by redirecting the excess current to an external sink. This process is known as clamping. When the diode is activated by an overcurrent event, it responds by clamping the voltage and current to a certain level. This limits the amount of energy that can pass through the diode, thus protecting the electronic components.

When the TVS diode is not activated, it acts as an open circuit. This allows the electrical current to flow through the circuit unrestricted. However, when the voltage reaches a certain level, the diode activates and begins to clamp the voltage and current. It then continues to limit the current until the voltage drops back to a safe level.

The SA43CAHR0G has a low capacitance of 8 pF, making it suitable for applications where speed and low parasitic capacitance are required. Its peak pulse power rating of 43 A and maximum working voltage of 28 V make it suitable for a wide range of applications that require protection against transient voltage events and surges.

Conclusion

The SA43CAHR0G from Semtech is a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed to protect sensitive electronics from transient voltage events and surges. Its low capacitance of 8 pF, maximum working voltage of 28 V, and peak pulse power rating of 43 A make it suitable for a wide range of applications. It is also suitable for applications where speed and low parasitic capacitance are required.