How to use TVS diodes in USB 2.0 / Type-C interface electrostatic protection design to meet IEC61000 test standards and improve signal stability and device safety.
Product Introduction
TVS diodes are fast-reacting semiconductor devices designed to suppress transient overvoltage events such as ESD, inductive switching, and surges. SMA-packaged TVS offers a balance of size and power handling for applications up to 600W.
Application Background
USB interfaces are frequently plugged and unplugged, exposing them to ESD events as high as ±8kV. Without protection, these surges may permanently damage USB transceivers. TVS diodes placed between signal lines and ground form a crucial ESD suppression layer.
Design Notes
Selection Guidelines:
V<sub>BR</sub> should exceed USB voltage (e.g., 5V)
Choose TVS with low junction capacitance (<3pF)
Response time should be <1ns
SMA package offers ideal trade-off between size and clamping performance
Real-world Example
A laptop USB-C ESD protection circuit using SMAJ5.0CA for D+/D− lines passed ±15kV IEC61000-4-2 testing with no signal integrity degradation or false triggering.
Conclusion
SMA-packaged TVS diodes offer an efficient, compact, and reliable protection solution for USB and other sensitive I/O interfaces, enabling robust ESD performance and compliance with international standards.
TVS diodes | ESD protection | USB interface protection | SMAJ series | ESD suppression components
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