- Microchip Technology’s latest launch consists of robust electronic circuit system that meet rigorous standards for environmental testing
- Enables military, communications, automotive, marine and industrial system circuit protection
To ensure well execution of critical operations, aviation and space systems rely on digital and logic functionality and circuitry in engine control units, environmental controls, instruments and actuators. Data centres, the 5G infrastructure and communication systems also rely on complex circuitry requiring protection. Each system must operate continuously despite voltage surges and spikes from lightning, solar events and electromagnetic incidents.
With this in mind, Microchip Technology has launched a new series of Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) vertical arrays – the MDA3KP Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS), a 3kW diode family of more than 25 products with different screening levels, polarities and qualification standards. The offering allows military system circuit protection for ruggedized handheld radios, Global Positioning System (GPS), communication test equipment. Other device applications include automotive, industrial logging equipment, power supplies and marine systems.
Fulfilling space and robustness requirements
Microchip’s MDA3KP TVS diode array family offers an integrated multi-diode solution and provides fast-reacting Avalanche Breakdown Diode (ABD) that can divert excess current around sensitive components to protect them from electrical overstress. Its vertically constructed 8-diode, 16-pin surface-mount package, allows for efficient layout and ease of design, thus facilitating less requirement of PCB space while enabling higher power densities. In the MDA3KP TVS diode array family, each device’s vertical construction provides the power of eight smaller devices on a printed circuit board, eliminating the need for the multiple devices even as it provides higher power.
Available in unidirectional and bidirectional construction in standoff voltages of 6V to 40V, the components provide Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and Electrical Fast Transients (EFT) protection according to IEC standards and a Peak Pulse Power rating of 3000 W at 10/1000 µs.
With an extended temperature range from -55 degrees Celsius to +150 degrees Celsius, the devices are traceable, surge tested and meet Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) Level 1 – demonstrating that these devices are ready for use in harsh environments. MSL indicates that no dry pack or bake is required before use.
Extensive qualification testing
The devices have been exposed to various levels of testing to ensure they meet the aircraft lightning protection requirements outlined in the standard for environmental testing of avionics, RTCA DO-160E (Lightning Induced Transient Susceptibility). They have voltage range tested to a high-reliability standard and qualified based on the MIL-PRF-19500 JANTX level equivalence standard.
“Digital controls, logic and diagnostic system circuit blocks require highly reliable, secure current and power protection to ensure operations in extreme environments,” said Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip’s Discrete Product Group business unit. “This diode family also addresses the challenges system designers face with a more efficient vertical construction and requirement for less board space than other devices.”
MDA3KP TVS diode arrays are now available in the following screened version industry standards: M, MA, MXL and MX.
