SMBJ170CA

The SMBJ170CA is a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed to protect sensitive electronic components from voltage spikes and transients. This device is particularly useful in applications where overvoltage protection is critical, such as in telecommunications, automotive electronics, and consumer electronics.

Key Features:

1. Voltage Rating: The SMBJ170CA has a breakdown voltage of approximately 170 volts, making it suitable for clamping voltage spikes that exceed this threshold. It is designed to handle transient voltages effectively while ensuring that the normal operating voltage remains unaffected.

2. Power Dissipation: The device can handle a peak power dissipation of up to 600 watts for a short duration, which allows it to absorb significant energy from transient events without failing.

3. Package Type: The SMBJ170CA is housed in a DO-214AA (SMB) package, which is a surface-mount device (SMD) configuration. This package is compact, making it suitable for space-constrained applications while providing good thermal performance.

4. Response Time: The response time of the SMBJ170CA is extremely fast, typically in the nanosecond range, allowing it to react quickly to transient events and protect downstream components effectively.

5. Clamping Voltage: The clamping voltage is specified at a certain peak pulse current, ensuring that the device will limit the voltage to a safe level during a transient event. This characteristic is crucial for protecting sensitive components from damage.

6. Operating Temperature Range: The SMBJ170CA operates effectively over a wide temperature range, typically from -55°C to +150°C, making it suitable for various environmental conditions.

7. Low Leakage Current: The device features low leakage current under normal operating conditions, which helps in maintaining energy efficiency and reducing power loss in the circuit.

8. Applications: Common applications for the SMBJ170CA include protection for data lines, power supply lines, and other sensitive electronic circuits that may be exposed to voltage transients from sources such as lightning strikes, inductive load switching, or electrostatic discharge (ESD).

Electrical Characteristics:

• Reverse Stand-off Voltage (V_R): 170V
• Breakdown Voltage (V_BR): Typically around 188V
• Clamping Voltage (V_C): Specified at a given peak pulse current
• Peak Pulse Power (P_PP): 600W (for 10/1000μs waveform)
• Capacitance (C): Low capacitance value, ensuring minimal impact on signal integrity in high-speed applications.

Conclusion:

The SMBJ170CA from Littelfuse Inc. is a robust and reliable transient voltage suppressor diode that provides essential protection for electronic circuits against voltage spikes. Its combination of high power handling capability, fast response time, and compact packaging makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications requiring overvoltage protection.