TVS Diode Array Provides 5X the ESD Protection Density

Littelfuse, Inc. has introduced the SP1012 Series TVS Diode Array (SPA Diodes), a miniature, five-channel 6.5pF, 15kV bidirectional TVS array for general-purpose electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. The SP1012 Series packs five ESD diodes in a 0402-size (0.94mm x 0.61mm) flipchip package that would normally contain only one, so it offers a 5x improvement over previous implementations. By providing the highest number of ESD diodes available in a package less than a square millimeter in size, the SP1012 Series helps circuit designers economize on both printed circuit board (PCB) space and costs.

These robust diodes can safely absorb repetitive ESD strikes at the maximum level specified in the IEC61000-4-2 international standard without performance degradation. The bidirectional configuration provides symmetrical ESD protection for data lines when ac signals are present. The SP1012 Series is ideally configured to protect data lines on flexible PCBs for capacitive touchscreen implementations. Applications include ESD protection for interfaces on wearable technology, smartphones, mobile phones, touchscreen controllers, and SIM cards.

“The SP1012 Series packs a five-line ESD protection solution in a 0402-size footprint, so it’s ideal for those designing products for the growing ‘wearables’ and consumer market,” said Chad Marak, product line director for the SP1012 Series TVS Diode Array line. “A single device can protect five lines against an ESD attack, so it’s well-suited for use on SIM card interfaces and datalines for capacitive touchscreen displays on smartphones and tablets.”

The SP1012 Series TVS Diode Array offers these key benefits: Five back-to-back ESD protection diodes in less board space than an SOD-882 (i.e., 1.0 x 0.6mm); represents a 5x improvement over previous implementations, saving PCB area/cost. Industry-leading ESD protection, providing greater than ±15kV protection per IEC61000-4-2 (contact), giving engineers higher end product reliability in the field. Very low dynamic resistance of 0.48Ω supports the low clamping voltages needed for protecting modern electronics. ESD devices are co-terminated, permitting flexibility in ground pad selection. Nominal 6V standoff voltages permits protection on 95 percent of the current and future user interfaces. The SP1012 Series TVS Diode Array is available in quantities of 10,000 in tape and reel packaging.