1500 Watt peak power transient voltage suppressor. Reverse stand-off voltage VRWM = 145.00 V. Test current IT = 1 mA.# Technical Documentation: 15KE170CA TVS Diode
*Manufacturer: GS*
## 1. Application Scenarios
### Typical Use Cases
The 15KE170CA is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppression (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in electronic circuits. Typical applications include:
- Power Supply Protection : Safeguarding DC power lines from voltage transients and surges
- Communication Interfaces : Protecting RS-485, RS-422, and industrial Ethernet ports
- Automotive Systems : Load dump protection in 12V/24V automotive electrical systems
- Industrial Control : PLC I/O protection, motor drive circuits, and sensor interfaces
- Telecommunications : Central office equipment, base station power supplies
### Industry Applications
- Automotive Electronics : ECU protection, infotainment systems, lighting controls
- Industrial Automation : Motor drives, relay/contactor coil suppression, PLC systems
- Telecom Infrastructure : Base station power supplies, network switching equipment
- Consumer Electronics : Power adapters, charging circuits, set-top boxes
- Renewable Energy : Solar inverter DC bus protection, wind turbine controls
### Practical Advantages and Limitations
Advantages:
- High Surge Capability : Withstands 10/1000μs surge pulses up to 1500W peak power
- Fast Response Time : Typically <1.0ps reaction to transient events
- Bidirectional Operation : Protects against both positive and negative transients
- Low Clamping Ratio : Provides effective voltage limiting during surge events
- Robust Construction : Hermetically sealed glass package for harsh environments
Limitations:
- Limited Energy Absorption : Not suitable for sustained overvoltage conditions
- Parasitic Capacitance : ~150pF typical may affect high-frequency signal integrity
- Voltage Derating : Requires thermal derating above 25°C ambient temperature
- Physical Size : DO-201 package may be large for space-constrained applications
## 2. Design Considerations
### Common Design Pitfalls and Solutions
Pitfall 1: Incorrect Voltage Rating Selection
- Problem : Selecting TVS with working voltage too close to normal operating voltage
- Solution : Ensure VWM (170V) exceeds maximum normal operating voltage by 10-20%
Pitfall 2: Inadequate Thermal Management
- Problem : Overheating during repeated transient events
- Solution : Provide sufficient copper area for heat dissipation, consider heatsinking
Pitfall 3: Poor Placement
- Problem : TVS located too far from protected component
- Solution : Place TVS within 2-5cm of protected circuit with minimal trace inductance
### Compatibility Issues with Other Components
Power Supply Compatibility:
- Compatible with switching regulators and linear regulators up to 150V DC
- Ensure VWM exceeds maximum output voltage of power supply
Signal Line Considerations:
- Parasitic capacitance (150pF typical) may affect high-speed digital signals (>10MHz)
- For high-frequency applications, consider lower capacitance TVS alternatives
System-Level Protection:
- Coordinate with upstream fuses or circuit breakers
- Ensure TVS breakdown voltage exceeds system maximum operating voltage
### PCB Layout Recommendations
Placement Strategy:
- Position TVS diode as close as possible to the point of entry for transients
- Use short, wide traces to minimize parasitic inductance
- For multi-board systems, place TVS on the interface board
Routing Guidelines:
- Maintain minimum 0.5mm clearance between TVS terminals and other traces
- Use 40-60mil trace width for power connections
- Implement ground pour around the device for improved heat dissipation
Thermal Management:
- Provide at least 1-2 square
