TVS diode arrays protect high-reliability applications

By Gina Roos, editor-in-chief

Microchip Technology Inc. has expanded its portfolio of transient voltage suppressor (TVS) vertical arrays with the launch of its MDA3KP TVS 3-kW diode family, comprised of more than 25 products with different screening levels, polarities, and qualification standards. Offering circuit protection in harsh environments, the high-reliability diode arrays are designed to protect aircraft, space systems, and critical infrastructure and communications systems from surges, spikes, and electrostatic events.

The TVS diode arrays, available in unidirectional and bidirectional construction in standoff voltages of 6 V to 40 V, provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) and electrical fast transient (EFT) protection according to IEC standards and a peak pulse power rating of 3,000 W at 10/1,000 µs. The devices offer an extended temperature range from −55°C to 150°C.

These voltage-clamping devices provide fast-reacting avalanche breakdown diode (ABD) features that divert excess current around sensitive components to protect them from electrical overstress, said Microchip, while addressing the challenges of board space with a vertical construction.

The vertically constructed eight-diode, 16-pin, surface-mount package allows for an efficient layout and ease of design, reducing printed-circuit-board (PCB) space while enabling higher power densities. Each device’s vertical construction provides the power of eight smaller devices on a PCB, eliminating the need for multiple devices even at higher power, said Microchip.

The devices are lot-traceable, surge-tested, and have a moisture sensitivity level (MSL) of Level 1, indicating that these devices can be used in harsh environments. (MSL indicates that no dry pack or bake is required prior to use.)

Microchip said that the MDA3KP family’s power rating is the industry’s only available technology with this level of screening in this package and with a voltage range testing to a high-reliability standard and qualified based on the MIL-PRF-19500 JANTX level equivalence standard.

MDA3KP TVS diode arrays are available in the following screened version industry standards: M, MA, MXL, and MX. The devices have undergone various levels of testing to ensure that they meet the aircraft lightning protection requirements in the standard for environmental testing of avionics, RTCA DO-160G (Lightning Induced Transient Susceptibility).

The 3-kW MDA diode family provides military system circuit protection for ruggedized handheld radios, global positioning systems (GPS), and communication test equipment. Other device applications include automotive, industrial logging equipment, power supplies, and marine systems. Devices are available through Microchip or its authorized distribution network.