Fast-Acting Overvoltage Clamping
Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) diodes are silicon avalanche devices designed to react within picoseconds to divert high-voltage spikes away from sensitive IC inputs.
3 Critical TVS Parameters:
- Reverse Standoff Voltage (Vrwm): The maximum continuous working voltage where the diode remains non-conductive. Always choose Vrwm ≥ your normal DC operating voltage.
- Breakdown Voltage (Vbr): The voltage at which avalanche conduction begins (typically specified at 1mA test current).
- Maximum Clamping Voltage (Vc): The peak voltage across the TVS during a full surge pulse (e.g., 8/20µs waveform). Your downstream IC must be rated to survive Vc.