TZMC20-GS08

Diodes - Zener - Single

The TZMC20-GS08 diode, part of the Zener - Single family of diodes, is a regulated current single diode which deals with voltage fluctuations between two levels. It has a wide varying range of applications and can be used to provide regulated current supply or save systems from over-voltage or over-current disasters.

Application Field

The TZMC20-GS08 can be used for numerous applications within the electrical engineering industry, due to its high reliability, temperature stability, and low noise factors. This diode is mostly used within the automotive and power electronics subfields. Some common examples include providing protection from over-voltage in circuits, as well as balancing conditions in power electronic systems.

In the automotive industry, it can be used as a voltage and current regulator to protect electrical systems, such as airbag controllers, anti-lock brakes (ABS) systems, and general powertrain control modules. It is also used to prevent over-voltage in alternators, battery chargers, electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems, and HVACs.

In the power electronics industry, it is commonly used to control excess voltage in heated containers, control speed control rectifiers, voltage control in induction heating systems, and harmonic suppression within tuned circuits.

Working Principle

The TZMC20-GS08 diode generally works on the principle of \'Action by Difference.\' It is designed to work with a specific Voltage-Current (VI) characteristic curve, which changes from near 0V to a specific rated Zener voltage, Vz. It is a three terminal device where its base voltage, Vz, is usually set via a sensing or current source.

The internal structure of the diode is based on a p-n junction. As the current through the device increases, Vz initially remains in steady state, however, due to the junction barrier potential, Vb, it finally increases. This increase in Vz is particularly controlled and monitored by the sensing mechanism to offer an output of Vz over the whole range of operation.

In the event of overvoltage, a current charges the Zener junction and starts flow through the device. This reduces the output voltage and results in current limiting. Based on the VI curve, any voltage greater than Vz is safely clamped. This then helps to prevent over-voltage damages to devices and systems during circuit integrity operations.

Conclusion

The TZMC20-GS08 diode is part of the Zener - Single family, and is commonly used in automotive and power electronic circuits. Its main function is to protect the electrical systems from over-voltage damages. The diode works on the principle of ‘Action by Difference’ and is able to provide regulated voltage and current supply. This is done by sensing the voltage and current in the circuit and clamping any voltage that exceeds the set Vz.