TVS diode arrays offer options for high data-rate interfaces and general purpose applications

Littelfuse has a new series of three unidirectional TVS diode arrays in space-saving 01005 flip chip packages (0.23mm x 0.43mm). Unidirectional protection is typically preferable to bidirectional protection, particularly on logic and data lines, which typically do not transit zero volts during standard operation. The new SP3145 series TVS diode arrays (SPA Diodes), based on fast-acting, semiconductor-based technology, can withstand multiple ESD events without wear-out or degradation. Its low nominal capacitance (0.35pF) makes this series ideal for interfaces running at high data rates approaching 5GHz clock speeds. The general purpose SP1043 (8pF) and SP1044 (30pF) arrays employ proprietary silicon avalanche technology to protect the I/O ports of electronic equipment subject to destructive ESD. These robust diodes can safely absorb repetitive ESD strikes at ±12kV (for SP1043) or ±30kV (for SP1044) without performance degradation. Typical applications for these TVS diode arrays include smartphones, digital cameras, wearable technology, tablet computers, and other portable devices. “For designers of today’s increasingly crowded printed circuit boards, the very compact footprint of these new TVS diode arrays offer a way to conserve on both PCB space and costs,” said Tim Micun, global product manager, TVS Diode Arrays (SPA Diodes) at Littelfuse.