Ceramic Semis Replace TVS Diodes

Said to provide advantages over transient-voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes, the CeraDiodes are made of multilayer-structured ceramic oxides with each layer consisting of multiple zinc-oxide grains. Comparable to a zener diode, the CeraDiode is formed where the zinc-oxide grains meet and, as there are many of these grains, many diodes are formed to yield a more robust protector when compared to a silicon TVS where only a PN junction is available. The components are available with working voltages from 5.6V to 22V and capacitance values from 2 pF to 470 pF. Single-element and four element arrays are available in 0603 and 1206 sizes, respectively. Other features include bi-directional protection, response times of less than 0.5 ns, low leakage current, and a temperature stability to 85°C. For further information and prices, contact EPCOS, Iselin, NJ. (800) 888-7728.