KYOCERA AVX, a global manufacturer of advanced electronic components, has released a new range of load dump varistors as an extension of its trusted TransGuard Automotive Series. The new Automotive Series varistors are zinc-oxide-based ceramic semiconductor devices that provide bidirectional over-voltage protection and EMI/RFI attenuation in a single, space-saving SMT package.
TransGuard Automotive Series varistors are ideal for use in hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The series is well suited for use in CAN, LIN, and FLEXRAY modules, sensors, and induction motors.
The varistors are compact and lightweight, rated for operating temperatures extending from -55° to +125° C with no derating, and compliant with JASO D001 1994 and ISO 7637-2-2004 standards for protection against transient surges in the automotive industry.
They’re also RoHS-compliant, lead-free compatible, and free of any other substances of high concern (SVHCs). The new device are qualified for AEC-Q200 and backed by more than 20 years of proven performance in an array of automotive electronics.
Key features include:
- A unique monolithic multilayer construction
- Non-linear, bidirectional voltage-current characteristics
- High-current and high-energy-handling capabilities
- Multi-strike capabilities
- Extremely fast, sub-nanosecond response times
These devices are also available with glass encapsulation for enhanced resistance against harsh environmental hazards, including acids, salts, and chlorite flux. These features combined enable TransGuard Automotive Series varistors to provide reliable, state-of-the-art circuit protection from voltage transients caused by ESD, induction motor loads, module load dump, and other disruptions.
The new TransGuard Automotive Series load dump varistors are characterized by higher peak current ratings than the rest of the series (2,000A), making them even more effective at providing reliable protection against high-energy automotive load dump transients. Load dump pulses simulate a sudden battery disconnection from the alternator and cause the alternator to generate an over-voltage impulse that can damage sensitive ICs.
“When compared to similar competing parts, the new TransGuard Automotive Series load dump varistors outperform in energy handling while utilizing a smaller footprint and maintaining all necessary parameters,” said Tyler Lagnese, product marketing manager at KYOCERA AVX. “This allows design engineers to achieve significant performance improvements with the added benefit of space and weight savings, which is especially valuable considering the growing number of electronic systems deployed in automotive applications.”
Filed Under: Technology News