Microchip introduces a new vertical array portfolio of transient voltage suppressors

     Aerospace systems rely on digital and logical functions and circuitry in engine control units, environmental controls, instruments and actuators to do critical work. Data centers, 5G infrastructure, and communications systems also rely on complex circuits that need to be properly secured. Even with voltage surges and spikes caused by lightning, solar activity and electromagnetic accidents, the system must remain in continuous operation. Microchip Technology has introduced its latest transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) vertical array portfolio, the MDA3KP Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS). The 3kW diode family has more than 25 products with different screening levels, polarities and certification standards.

     Offering an integrated multi-diode solution, Microchip's MDA3KP TVS diode array family is the only technology that offers a wide voltage range and has been tested to high reliability standards to the equivalent standard in the MIL-PRF-19500 JANTX class. These voltage-clamp devices feature fast-acting avalanche breakdown diode (ABD) features that divert excess current around the sensitive element to protect it from electrical overload.

     "Digital control, logic, and diagnostic system circuit modules require highly reliable, secure current and power protection to ensure operation in extreme environments," said Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip's discrete Devices business group. This diode family addresses the challenges faced by system designers with a more efficient vertical structure and smaller board space requirements compared to other devices."

     The MDA3KP TVS diode arrays currently available meet industry standards for the following screening types: M, MA, MXL and MX. These devices have been tested at various levels to ensure that they meet the aircraft lightning protection requirements specified in the avionics Environmental Test Standard RTCA DO-160E (Lightning Induction Transient Sensitivity). RTCA (Aeronautical Radio Technical Committee of the United States) is an industry alliance dedicated to achieving consensus on key issues of aviation modernization.

     The MDA3KP TVS diode array adopts a structure of 8 diodes placed vertically, and the package form is 16-pin surface mount. Because of the smaller printed circuit board space required and the higher power density, the product enables efficient layout and simplified design. All components of the MDA3KP TVS diode array family are vertical and can power up to eight smaller devices on a single printed circuit board, thus achieving higher power without the need for multiple devices.

     Available in both unidirectional and bidirectional configurations, the device offers isolation voltages from 6V to 40V, electrostatic discharge (ESD) and electrical fast transient (EFT) protection according to IEC standards, and a peak pulse power rating of 3000 watts (10/1000 µs). Over an extended temperature range of -55 ° C to +150 ° C, the devices feature batch traceability, surge testing and a moisture sensitivity rating (MSL) of Class 1 - indicating that these devices can be used in harsh environments. MSL indicates that there is no need to dry pack or dry before use. The power rating of the MDA3KP TVS diode array family is the only technology available in the industry with this screening level in this package.

     Microchip's 3kW MDA diode family provides circuit protection for military systems for ruggedified handheld radios, global positioning systems (GPS), and communications test equipment, as well as applications in automotive, industrial logging equipment, power supply, and Marine systems.