Asymmetrical TVS diode series for SiC MOSFET gate protection

As SiC MOSFETs become increasingly popular due to their faster switching speeds and superior efficiency compared to traditional Silicon MOSFETs and IGBTs, the need for robust gate protection has never been greater. The SMFA Asymmetrical Series offers an innovative, single-component solution that significantly enhances circuit reliability while simplifying design.

The SMFA Asymmetrical Series is the only TVS diode on the market engineered specifically for the unique gate protection requirements of SiC MOSFETs. Unlike traditional solutions that require multiple Zener or TVS diodes, the SMFA Series effectively protects against ringing and overshoot phenomena in gate drive circuits using a single component, saving valuable PCB space and reducing the complexity of circuit designs. Watch the video.

The SMFA Asymmetrical Series Surface-Mount TVS Diode offers the following key features and benefits:

• Asymmetrical design: the SMFA Series is tailored to the specific negative and positive gate voltage ratings of SiC MOSFETs, ensuring precise and reliable protection
• Single-component solution: replaces multiple Zener and TVS diodes, reducing the number of components and simplifying circuit layout
• Space efficiency: by combining multiple protection functions into one component, the SMFA Series minimises PCB space usage, allowing for more compact and efficient designs
• Compatibility: the SMFA Asymmetrical Series is compatible with all available Littelfuse and other leading SiC MOSFETs, making it a versatile solution for various applications

“The SMFA Asymmetric TVS Diodes protect valuable SiC MOSFETs from gate failures using a single component solution that easily replaces multiple Zener and TVS diodes,” said Ben Huang, Director of Product Marketing at Littelfuse. “This unique solution also saves valuable PCB space while reducing the number of components required.”

The SMFA Asymmetrical Series is ideal for a variety of demanding applications where SiC MOSFETs are used, including:

• AI/data centre server power supplies: enhances the reliability and efficiency of critical power supplies in high-performance computing environments
• High-efficiency Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (EVI) power systems: provides robust gate protection in EV charging stations and related power systems, ensuring longevity and performance
• High-reliability semiconductor/industrial equipment power supplies: protects essential power supplies in industrial and semiconductor manufacturing environments, where reliability and uptime are paramount

Availability

The SMFA Asymmetrical Series TVS Diode is available in tape and reel format in quantities of 3,000. Sample requests are accepted through authorised Littelfuse distributors worldwide.