SMBJ220CE3/TR13

TVS - Diodes

TVS (Transient Voltage Suppression) diodes are devices that protect wires and circuits from damage due to transient voltages. These diodes have a wide range of applications in various electrical and electronic circuits, from automotive to aerospace. The SMBJ220CE3/TR13 is a commonly used diode designed to absorb high-energy transient voltage spikes. This article will discuss its application field and working principle.

Application Field

The SMBJ220CE3/TR13 is an unidirectional TVS diode designed to protect circuit components from potentially dangerous voltage spikes. It is particularly useful for automotive and aerospace applications due to its ability to withstand high-energy transients. The diode has a low peak clamping voltage of 24.4 V and a maximum peak pulse current rating of 4 A.

The diode can be connected in series with a sensitive circuit component, such as a microcontroller, to protect it from damage due to voltage transients. It can also be connected in parallel to the power supply of a circuit to provide protection against power surges. Additionally, the diode can be used in automotive applications, since it can handle transients caused by lead acid battery charging and discharging.

Working Principle

TVS diodes are designed to clamp transient voltages to a safe level. The device is made up of an epoxy body and a pair of electrodes that are insulated with a coating of different dielectric material. During operation, the diode conducts current during very short, high-energy transients, and dissipates the excess energy as heat, thus preventing circuit components from sustaining damage.

The SMBJ220CE3/TR13 is designed to clamp a voltage spike of up to 24.4 V and absorb a maximum of 4 A of current. When a transient voltage occurs, the diode conducts current in one direction and clamps it to a safe level. The amount of current conducted depends on the energy of the transient and the voltage rating of the diode. The energy dissipated is equal to the energy of the transient multiplied by the diode’s clamping voltage.

Conclusion

The SMBJ220CE3/TR13 is a unidirectional TVS diode designed to protect circuit components from potentially dangerous voltage spikes. It is particularly useful for automotive and aerospace applications due to its high-energy tolerance and low peak clamping voltage rating. The diode works by conducting current in one direction during high-energy transient spikes and dissipating the excess energy as heat, thus preventing circuit components from sustaining damage.