Introduction of Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS):

Silicon transient voltage suppressors (TVSs) are clamping devices that limit voltage spikes by low impedance avalanche breakdown of a rugged silicon pn junction. They are used to protect sensitive components from electrical overstress such as that caused by induced lightning, inductive load switching and electrostatic discharge.

Lightning, inductive load switching, and electrostatic discharge (ESD) are the most common sources of electrical overstress which produce transient voltages. Transients are narrow spikes of voltage ranging from less than 100 nanoseconds in duration for ESD, to greater than a thousand microseconds for lightning and load switching transients. Transient voltage magnitudes range from tens of volts up to more than 10kV.

When a transient appears the TVS becomes active, clamping it to a harmless level. Its electrical parameters such as breakdown voltage (V(BR)), leakage current (ID), and capacitance should be “invisible” to the circuit and have no effect on performance.

Surface Mount Devices

Lead Devices