Steering diode/TVS arrays safeguard computing interfaces

By Majeed Ahmad, contributing writer

ProTek Devices has launched two series of multi-line steering diode/transient voltage suppressor (TVS) arrays that offer a low-capacitance of 5 pF and provide board-level circuit protection against surge and electrostatic discharge (ESD). ProTek is targeting these circuit-protection components at Ethernet ports, set-top boxes, and other computing ports and interfaces.

The PSRDAxx-4A  is particularly suitable for video card applications, while the PSRDAxx-6A  is considered more appropriate for industrial control designs. Here, it’s important to note that the PSRDAxx-4A series features a unidirectional configuration and protects up to four I/O ports, while the PSRDAxx-6A series with a bidirectional configuration protects up to six lines. Both lines are available in multiple voltages.

Both series provide circuit protection for standard TTL and CMOS bus line applications against the damaging effects of ESD, tertiary lightning, and switching transients and have a peak pulse power rating of 500 W for an 8/20-microsecond waveshape. They are compatible with various IEC standards, including 61000-4-2 for ESD, 61000-4-4 for EFT, and 61000-4-5 for surge. These steering diode/TVS array components also feature the UL 94V-0 flammability rating.

The PSRDAxx-4A and PSRDAxx-6A devices are available in a molded JEDEC SO-8 package with an approximate weight of 70 milligrams. ProTek provides these components on 12-mm tape and reel per EIA standard 481 in quantities starting at 1,000.