TVS Diodes: Basics, Function and Applications

Transient overvoltages can occur unexpectedly in many applications. The consequences range from malfunctions to irreversible destruction of the circuit. TVS diodes protect sensitive circuit components and effectively divert interference currents.

TVS Diodes: Fundamentals and Operating Principles

Key Electrical Parameters of TVS Diodes

Understanding the Snapback Effect in TVS Devices

TVS Diodes for High-Speed Data and Signal Lines

TVS Diode Arrays for ESD Protection

Practical Circuit Applications for TVS Diodes

White Paper Overview

TVS diodes (transient voltage suppressors) are used to protect circuits from high voltage spikes. They are designed to operate in reverse bias and work by discharging interference current when the reverse voltage exceeds the ‘avalanche breakdown potential’. They are essentially high-power Zener diodes and represent a special form of avalanche diodes. TVS diodes can withstand large power spikes (hundreds or thousands of watts), but Zener diodes have a narrower voltage tolerance. TVS diodes generally have a higher parasitic capacitance than Zener diodes. They are available in either unidirectional or bidirectional versions. Unidirectional TVS diodes block up to the rated voltage in one direction and behave like a normal diode in forward bias in the other direction. Bidirectional TVS diodes block current flow in both directions up to the rated voltage (good for protecting AC signals). Unidirectional TVS diodes have a much faster response time than their bidirectional counterparts (e.g., 5 ps compared to 5 ns).

To learn more about TVS diodes, their basics, function and applications, read this White Paper from Würth Elektronik eiSos.