Semtech Expands RailClamp Digital Protection Family
Semtech Corp. (Camarillo, CA), a producer of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for communications and portable devices, announced the expansion of its RailClamp® protection family with two ultra-low capacitance devices designed to protect data interfaces operating at speeds higher than 2 GHz. The RClamp™0502B and RClamp™0514M protect two lines and four lines, respectively, and each present a typical line-to-line capacitance of 0.7 pF, making the devices suitable for HDMI applications such as plasma displays, high definition televisions, and set-top boxes.
Both devices have a flow-through design for ease of layout. The pins of the RClamp0514M are spaced at a pitch of 0.5 mm for reducing discontinuities on high speed lines. The RClamp0502B also has a flow-through design and protects one differential pair. The versatility of the single device allows designers the freedom to separate clock and data pins. Furthermore, neither device requires impedance compensation, such as common-mode chokes, to meet the requirements of the stringent HDMI CTS.
The devices feature low clamping voltage for protection of sensitive ICs in high ESD threat environments. They meet IEC 61000-4-2 specification for protection against electrostatic discharge, a common phenomenon with data interfaces. The solid-state design ensures protection against repeated strikes without degradation or damage.
The lead-free design of the devices complies with the European Union's Restriction on Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) directive to meet worldwide environmental and regulatory requirements. The RClamp0502B (ordering code RClamp0502B.TCT) is available immediately in production quantities, and is priced at $0.28 each in 1,000-piece lots. The RClamp0514M (ordering code RClamp0514M.TBT) is available immediately in production quantities, and is priced at $0.52 each in 1,000-piece lots.
