A good TVS device for protecting dataline communications interfaces must have some key parameters.
First, low working voltage is a critical TVS parameter for safeguarding submicron integrated circuits. The working voltage, or Vrwm, is the maximum rated DC voltage for the TVS device. At the Vrwm voltage, the TVS is still a non-conducting device. Once the transient voltage rises above the working voltage, the TVS quickly achieves breakdown and presents a low impedance path to divert the transient. Thus, a low working voltage is essential for clamping a transient to a level well below the damage threshold of the IC that the TVS is protecting. The I-V curve illustrates the advantage of a lower working voltage. The green line represents a typical I-V curve for a standard TVS device. The lower working voltage means the transient voltage is arrested more quickly and thus can be clamped to a lower voltage. Using TVS devices with lower working voltage is critical to reducing the stress energy seen by the communications transceiver.
Secondly, the TVS should present low capacitance to preserve signal integrity on the high-speed interface. If the capacitance of the TVS diodes is too high, adding excessive loading to the circuit, signal distortion and data errors will result.
Finally, the TVS needs to offer high-surge handling. For systems in the communications infrastructure, components rated only for ESD transient levels will not provide sufficient protection. The TVS component must also be able to handle the higher energy contained within cable discharges and the variety of lightning threats. As a general guideline, the TVS should at least provide 25A of surge handling for an 8x20 microsecond pulse.
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