Littelfuse Introduces FlatSuppressX TVS Diodes for 48 V Automotive Systems

Littelfuse has introduced the TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL FlatSuppressX TVS diodes, developed for transient protection in 48 V automotive electrical systems. The new devices use the company's FlatSuppressX architecture to maintain a lower and more stable clamping voltage during surge events than conventional TVS diodes, addressing the tighter voltage margins of modern automotive power electronics.

The TP5.0SMD-FL provides a peak pulse power rating of 5 kW in a DO-214AB (SMC) package, while the TP1KSMB-FL is rated at 1 kW in a smaller DO-214AA (SMB) package. Both series are AEC-Q101 qualified and designed for systems developed in line with ISO 21780.

FlatSuppressX Clamping Characteristic

Conventional TVS diodes can exhibit higher and more variable clamping voltages during transient events. Littelfuse's FlatSuppressX technology instead uses a foldback and snapback I-V characteristic to maintain a flatter clamping response while avoiding latch-up, according to the company.

This is intended for protecting components such as dc/dc converters, gate drivers, and power management ICs that have relatively low absolute maximum voltage ratings despite operating within 48 V electrical architectures. Littelfuse also states that the lower clamping voltage can allow designers to specify lower voltage-rated downstream components where appropriate.

Two Power Ratings

The TP5.0SMD-FL is intended for applications requiring higher surge capability, providing up to 5 kW peak pulse power in a DO-214AB package. The TP1KSMB-FL offers 1 kW in the smaller DO-214AA package for designs with lower surge energy requirements.

Both series have a typical response time of less than 1 ps and are supplied in surface-mount packages for automotive electronics.

Automotive Protection Applications

The devices are intended for transient protection in 48 V automotive systems, including battery disconnect units, zone control units, electric power steering systems, dc/dc converters, and power distribution networks.

Littelfuse states that both series are qualified to AEC-Q101 and developed for automotive environments operating under ISO 21780 requirements.

The TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL are available in tape-and-reel packaging in quantities of 3,000. Samples are available through authorized Littelfuse distributors.

Learn more and read the original announcement at the Littelfuse website.

Technology Overview

The Littelfuse TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL are automotive TVS diodes for 48 V systems. Using the company's FlatSuppressX architecture, they maintain a lower and more stable clamping voltage during transient events than conventional TVS devices. The two series provide 5 kW and 1 kW surge capability respectively, are AEC-Q101 qualified, and are designed for ISO 21780 automotive applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL?

The TP5.0SMD-FL provides up to 5 kW peak pulse power in a DO-214AB package, while the TP1KSMB-FL is rated at 1 kW in a smaller DO-214AA package.

What is FlatSuppressX technology?

According to Littelfuse, FlatSuppressX uses a foldback and snapback I-V characteristic to maintain a lower and more stable clamping voltage during transient overvoltage events while avoiding latch-up.

Which applications are these TVS diodes intended for?

The devices are designed for 48 V automotive electronics, including battery disconnect units, zone control units, electric