SMBJ160CA

TVS - Diodes refers to diode devices that are used to protect electronic circuits by limiting transient or surge voltages. The SMBJ160CA is a bidirectional, silicon Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) Diode that can be utilized for electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and line transient voltage surges, with an operating voltage of 6 V - 160 V. This diode is often used to protect against transient voltage pulses of 2.0 KV (HBM, contact), 1.5 KV (CPM, induced), and 1.2 KV (CDM, capacitive).

SMBJ160CA Application Field

The SMBJ160CA is most commonly utilized in many electronic applications. It is commonly used in data and telecommunications networks, industrial and consumer electronics, and LTE-Direct base stations. Specifically, this TVS Diode can provide overvoltage protection in wireless charging circuits and USB Type-C ports.

In the automotive industry, this device can be used in a variety of applications, particularly in protection against high voltage transients in passenger cars, buses, or trucks. It is also used in the medical industry for protecting medical equipment from voltage spikes.

SMBJ160CA Working Principle

The SMBJ160CA works to protect against voltage transients by utilizing a bidirectional, electrical breakdown. When a voltage greater than the breakdown voltage is applied to the diode, a bipolar current flows from the anode to the cathode. This current is then redirected to the anode and due to the low internal resistance, the transient voltage is suppressed.

When the overvoltage transient dissipates, the diode returns to its normal operation. This allows the device to block high voltage for a short time while still allowing the voltages that are within spec limits to pass through. The diode can then be reused again once the transient has dissipated.

Conclusion

The SMBJ160CA is a bidirectional, silicon Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) Diode which is commonly used as a form of protection against high voltage transients. This diode is quite versatile and is applicable to a variety of industries, most notably the automotive and medical industries. The device works by utilizing electrical breakdown which redirects transients away from connected circuitry.