A transient voltage suppression (TVS) diode is a semiconductor device used to protect electronic circuits from overvoltage spikes and electrostatic discharge (ESD). It acts as a voltage clamp, quickly shunting large amounts of current to ground when a voltage spike occurs, keeping the voltage at a safe level for sensitive components. TVS diodes are available in both unidirectional (for single-direction protection) and bidirectional (for AC or bidirectional signals) configurations.
Characteristics
- Fast response time: TVS diodes react to voltage spikes much faster than other components like fuses or surge protectors.
- Low clamping voltage: They clamp the voltage at a level very close to the normal operating voltage, providing more precise protection.
- Low capacitance: This is important for protecting high-speed data lines without distorting the signal.
- High peak pulse current: They can absorb large amounts of energy for a short duration.
Applications
- Data line protection: Protecting sensitive inputs on devices from ESD.
- Home electronics: Safeguarding against surges from power lines.
- Automotive electronics: Protecting components in vehicles from voltage spikes caused by events like inductive load switching.
- Industrial power distribution: Mitigating disturbances in electrical systems.