Performance of ceramic ESD device series boosted by 20%

Murata has increased the performance of its LXES ceramic ESD protection device series by 20% compared to the peak voltage performance characteristic of previous models. The ceramic protection devices use the gap between two electrodes as a discharge element. By narrowing the gap between the electrodes the dielectric strength of the ceramic becomes weaker when high voltages up to 8KV are repeatedly applied. In order to overcome this weakness Murata has developed a multi-layer ceramic technology that can offer low voltage ESD protection together with the dielectric strength to withstand continued high voltage discharge. Bringing the voltage protection down by typically 20% the new LXES15AAA1-153 and LXES03AAA1-154 devices bring a level of ESD protection performance that is equivalent to that of a silicon-based transient voltage suppression device (TVS) but with an ultra-low capacitance - such TVS ESD protection devices are not able to achieve the performance characteristics available offered by these new ceramic devices, says the company. The LXES series now offers ESD protection according to the internationally recognized IEC61000-4-2 Level 1 standard at low voltage and low peak voltage levels. They also offer superior stability characteristic when exposed to repeated ESD. Typical applications include providing ESD protection for the interfaces of many electronic systems especially for those where a high reliability is essential such as in automotive electronics. Other applications include use on antenna terminals for GPS, Wi-Fi and LTE wireless communications products, high speed signal lines for USB and HDMI, and use on external interfaces of touch panels, monitors, buttons and switches. The LXES15AAA1-153 is housed in a 1005 size package and the LXES03AAA1-154 in a 0603. Operating temperature is across the wide range from -40C to + 85C.