SMLJ220E3/TR13

TVS – Diodes or Transient Voltage Suppression devices are basically unidirectional, voltage- operated components used to provide protection against transients and ESD (electrostatic discharge) threats. TVS diode has specific features such as bidirectional, range of response times, peak pulse power of up to 600 watts, roughly infinite surge current capability, and low clamping voltages. They are ideal for protecting delicate semiconductor circuits from electrical transients induced on an electrical line. In most of the situations, TVS – Diodes can replace any fuses or breakers and are used in many circuits, as it offers greater protection and flexibility than an external fuse or breaker to meet the requirements of current surge and short circuit protection.

SMLJ220E3/TR13 is an ultra-fast response TVS Diode with a Breakdown Voltage of 13.1 V and a maximum clamping voltage of 18.3 V. It is mainly used in the port protection of mobile phones and other portable communication devices.

Moreover, it works best in the circuits with frequent and large voltage transients, such as automotive – starting and charging systems, which frequently applies overvoltage on electronic components in order to prevent damages from lengthy starting periods of the engine. SMLJ220E3/TR13 is the perfect solution for suppressing these large voltage transients and providing a robust method of protection.

The SMLJ220E3/TR13 is a bidirectional, 63 volts, clamping diode, and is a member of the transient voltage suppression (TVS) device familiy. It is made using silicon avalanche diodes (SADs) and follows the general TVS spike clamping principles. The SMLJ220E3/TR13 diode works by clamping when the voltage goes above the breakdown voltage, VBR. When the voltage across the diode reaches the breakdown voltage, VBR, a large electric current will flow, further increasing the voltage, until the avalanche breakdown occurs. At this point, the diode’s current-saving mechanism takes over and the current is shorted to the ground, effectively preventing the transient event from damaging the circuit or device.

The diode also has a reverse breakdown voltage (VDRM), which is the reverse biased voltage of the diode at its current clamping range, and a clamping voltage (VCL) which is the voltage of the diode at clamping which is above the peak power dissipation capability of the diode and determines the maximum dissipation power rating, PPM. As the SMLJ220E3/TR13 diode has a low clamping voltage it is ideal for protecting sensitive components in automotive applications and system.

Apart from automotive applications, the SMLJ220E3/TR13 is also used in communication systems, consumer electronics, industrial, medical, and military systems. Moreover, it can be used in applications where a minimum component size is needed, such as laptop computers, cell phones, digital cameras, USB, audio and video devices.

This device has a fast response time of 5-50 nanoseconds and an excellent clamping performance which can effectively suppress the transients. It is also a RoHS compliant device and its terminals are easily accessible to allow for easy replacement in the field. The SMLJ220E3/TR13 diode is available in packages such as SOT-23, SMA, and other SMT form factors, and is preferred in today’s modern digital systems.