TVS diode arrays outperform polymer-based technologies and spark gaps

Littelfuse offers two new series of bidirectional TVS Diode Arrays (SPA Diodes) created to protect ultra high-speed consumer electronics interfaces from damaging ESD in applications where PCB layout is particularly challenging. The SP3208-01UTG, the first TVS Diode Array in the SP3208 Series, is mechanically optimised to provide consistently ultra-low capacitance (nominally 0.08pF). The SP3213-01UTG, the first SP3213 Series device, gives an option for highly cost-conscious ESD protection solutions.

Both of these 'Ultimate Ultra-Low Capacitance ESD Protection' devices are AEC-Q101-qualified, employ the same base die, and can safely absorb repetitive ESD strikes at ±12kV without performance degradation and dissipate 2A of 8/20μs surge current.

Typical applications for both series include ultra-high speed data lines and interfaces, such as USB 3.2, 3.1, 3.0, 2.0, HDMI 2.1. 2.0, 1.4a, 1.3, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt and V-by-One; Low power antenna ports; Consumer, mobile and portable electronics; and Tablet PCs and external storage with high-speed interfaces.

“Rising data rate speeds present significant challenges to design engineers who need to maintain high signal integrity,” said Tim Micun, Business Development Manager, TVS Diode Arrays (SPA Diodes) at Littelfuse. “Compared to other ESD protection solutions on the market, the SP3208 and SP3213 Series provide 50% lower nominal capacitance, which helps preserve signal integrity and minimize data loss. Providing a passband in excess of 30GHz allows signal integrity engineers to create a high speed, data capable environment.”