SMAJ15CA

The SMAJ15CA is a specific type of transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by FTR (Farnell, Texas Instruments, or similar companies). This component is designed to protect sensitive electronic circuits from voltage spikes and transients, which can occur due to various factors such as lightning strikes, electrostatic discharge (ESD), or switching events in power systems.

Detailed Description:

1. Package Type:

   • The SMAJ15CA typically comes in a DO-214AC (SMA) package, which is a surface-mount device (SMD) that is compact and suitable for automated assembly processes. The package is designed to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring reliable operation under transient conditions.

2. Electrical Characteristics:

   • Reverse Stand-Off Voltage (V_RWM): The SMAJ15CA has a reverse stand-off voltage of 15V, meaning it can withstand this voltage without conducting. This makes it suitable for protecting circuits operating at or below this voltage.
   • Clamping Voltage (V_C): When a transient occurs, the clamping voltage is the maximum voltage that the diode will allow to pass through to the protected circuit. For the SMAJ15CA, this is typically around 24.5V at a specified peak pulse current.
   • Peak Pulse Power (P_PP): The device can handle a peak pulse power of around 400W (for a 10/1000μs waveform), which indicates its capability to absorb high-energy transients without failure.

3. Temperature Range:

   • The operating temperature range for the SMAJ15CA is generally from -55°C to +150°C, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.

4. Applications:

   • The SMAJ15CA is commonly used in applications where overvoltage protection is critical, such as in power supplies, telecommunications equipment, and data lines. It is particularly useful in protecting sensitive components like microcontrollers, integrated circuits, and communication ports.

5. Construction:

   • The diode is typically made from silicon and features a junction that allows it to respond quickly to voltage spikes. The construction is designed to ensure minimal capacitance, which is important for high-speed data lines to prevent signal distortion.

6. Marking and Identification:

   • The SMAJ15CA is usually marked with its part number on the body of the package, along with other relevant information such as the manufacturer's logo and date code, which helps in identifying the component during assembly and maintenance.

7. Compliance and Standards:

   • The device often complies with various industry standards for safety and reliability, such as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and other environmental regulations, ensuring it is suitable for use in modern electronic designs.

In summary, the SMAJ15CA from FTR is a robust and reliable transient voltage suppressor diode designed to protect electronic circuits from damaging voltage spikes, making it an essential component in many electronic applications.