P4SMA18A-E3
Unidirectional TVS diodes for transient voltage suppression in SMA packages
Manufacturer： ['vishay-general-semiconductor', 'vishay']
series introduction
# Introduction to the P4SMA18A - E3 Product Series
## 1. Overview
The P4SMA18A - E3 product series belongs to the realm of transient voltage suppressors (TVS). These components are crucial in modern electronic circuits as they safeguard sensitive electronic devices from voltage spikes and transients. Voltage spikes can occur due to various reasons such as lightning strikes, electrostatic discharge (ESD), and power surges. The P4SMA18A - E3 series is engineered to quickly and effectively divert these excessive voltages away from the protected circuit, ensuring the reliable and safe operation of the overall system.
## 2. Key Specifications
### Electrical Characteristics
- **Breakdown Voltage**: The breakdown voltage of the P4SMA18A - E3 is precisely defined. It typically starts conducting current when the voltage across it reaches a specific value. For this series, the breakdown voltage is centered around 18V. This means that when the voltage in the circuit exceeds this level, the TVS begins to act, shunting the excess current to ground.
- **Clamping Voltage**: Once the TVS starts conducting, it limits the voltage across the protected circuit to a safe level. The clamping voltage of the P4SMA18A - E3 is designed to be low enough to prevent damage to the connected electronic components. It ensures that even during a voltage surge, the voltage seen by the sensitive parts of the circuit remains within their tolerance limits.
- **Peak Pulse Power Dissipation**: This series is capable of handling high - peak pulse power. It can dissipate a significant amount of energy during a transient event. The high peak pulse power rating makes it suitable for applications where large and sudden voltage spikes are likely to occur, providing robust protection against such events.
### Package and Physical Characteristics
- **Package Type**: The P4SMA18A - E3 comes in a standard surface - mount package. This type of package is widely used in modern printed circuit board (PCB) designs due to its compact size and ease of assembly. The surface - mount design allows for automated placement on the PCB, which increases manufacturing efficiency and reduces costs.
- **Dimensions**: The specific dimensions of the package are carefully designed to fit within the layout constraints of various electronic devices. The compact size enables it to be integrated into small - form - factor applications without taking up excessive board space.
## 3. Applications
### Consumer Electronics
- **Smartphones and Tablets**: In these portable devices, the P4SMA18A - E3 can protect the internal circuits from ESD events that may occur when the user touches the device or plugs in external accessories. It ensures the reliability of the device by preventing damage to sensitive components such as the processor, memory, and display drivers.
- **Televisions and Set - Top Boxes**: These devices are often connected to external power sources and signal cables. The TVS can protect against power surges from the electrical grid and voltage spikes on the signal lines, ensuring the long - term operation of the device and preventing costly repairs.
### Industrial Electronics
- **Automation Systems**: In industrial automation, where electronic control systems are used to operate machinery and processes, the P4SMA18A - E3 can protect against voltage transients caused by motor starting and stopping, as well as electrical interference in the industrial environment. This helps to maintain the stability and accuracy of the automation system.
- **Power Supplies**: Industrial power supplies are subject to various types of voltage fluctuations. The TVS can be used to protect the power supply circuitry and the connected loads from overvoltage events, ensuring a stable power output and preventing damage to downstream equipment.
### Automotive Electronics
- **On - Board Electronics**: Modern vehicles are equipped with a large number of electronic systems, including engine control units, infotainment systems
Images for reference
DO-214AC, SMA
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