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ESD Protection with Transient Voltage Suppressor Diode (TVS Diodes) in Embedded Systems – Design Guide & Tips

Embedded system design is a complex process, and overlooking ESD protection can result in serious post-deployment issues. A design that’s missing a Transient Voltage Suppressor Diode can potentially result in a barrage of complaints from angry customers and product recalls. Such a scenario is practically a nightmare for any embedded systems design engineers. In this article, you’ll learn the importance of Transient Voltage Suppressor Diodes (or TVS diodes) for ESD protection and how to protect critical components effectively in your design.   How ESD Affects Embedded Systems Embedded systems are electronic circuits driven by a microcontroller. Besides the microcontroller at its core, the circuit often consists of other types of ICs, communication, and I/O interface.  Each of the components has a degree of tolerance against ESD. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take

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How to Choose the Right TVS Diode to Protect Complex Circuits

A major aspect of system protection for complex circuits in an unreliable industrial environment is the selection of the right TVS Diode. Circuits are designed to handle a specific voltage limit, within which they operate safely and in optimal condition. But when this voltage is exceeded, the signal lines and interfaces and the product or function can get damaged. Disturbances from exposure to high transients, voltage or current surges, and more can all negatively affect the performance of a circuit. Fortunately, utilizing the right TVS Diodes can protect sensitive circuit components and systems from electrical overstress caused by power surges, lightning strikes, or nearby machinery. So, let’s take some time to discuss the working principles of TVS Diodes and how they protect your circuits. Transients are surges in either voltage

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The Critical Role of TVS Diodes in Aerospace & Defense’s Digital Transformation

At MDE Semiconductor, Inc., we’ve been keeping our finger on the pulse of digital transformation on a global scale. As a manufacturer of TVS Diodes that keep complex electronic circuits running seamlessly, we are closely watching the trends of digital transformation in the Aerospace & Defense industry to ensure our products will meet and surpass demands as they evolve. Most recently, we’ve been watching how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the aerospace industry, and today we’re taking the time to share our research into how A&D is accelerating their digital transformation as a result. At the end of last year, the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) revealed the results of their annual survey of worldwide A&D organizations. Their Digital Acceleration Index of OEMs, suppliers, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers

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de-icing system protected by diode clamp

MDE Semiconductor, Inc. TVS Diode Clamp Devices Provide Protection to Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s Unique Electro-thermal Wing De-icing System

As we move into the final phases of travel restrictions from the COVID-19 Pandemic, many people will be taking to the air once more for global travel. And with fuel shortages in some parts of the world, concern for environmental preservation, and post-pandemic economic challenges, there is more demand than ever for lighter, cleaner aircraft to satisfy our wanderlust in the most efficient way possible. One aircraft meeting that demand is the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Learn more about the unique electro-thermal ice protection systems onboard the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the TVS Diode Clamp Devices protecting this complex electrical circuitry system. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a family of wide-body, long-haul airliners, developed by Boeing in 2003-2009. It’s the first commercial airliner with a radically increased proportion of composite materials

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Pratt & Whitney F135 Turbofan Protected by MDE Semiconductor, Inc TVS Semiconductor Devices

Continuing with our exploration of MDE Semiconductor, Inc. TVS semiconductor devices used in military applications, today we’re digging into the specific application of devices within the F135 turbofan.  This is an afterburning turbofan developed by American aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney. It has specifically been designed for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II strike fighter. Our MAX-100, MAX-422, 30KW60CA, and 20KP30CA devices are those integrated for ESD protection of the F135. Let’s have a closer look at each of these devices’ roles in protecting equipment on board the F-35 Lightning II. What is the F135? The F135 is an afterburning turbofan designed by American aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney. The afterburner’s job is to give the plane’s take-off a boost of extra thrust for a short period of time. This improves

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MDE Semiconductor Clamp Circuit Devices Used in Lockheed Martin’s F35 Lightning II: This Time in the Ice Protection Systems Designed by Ultra Electronics.

No passengers like a delayed, rerouted, or canceled flight on account of bad weather. De-icing the plane is a critical process – and not just for passenger flights. We’re proud to share that once again, MDE Semiconductor, Inc. parts have been implemented in military aircraft. We return to Lockheed Martin’s F35 Lightning II: this time in the form of clamp circuit device protecting the ice protection systems designed by Ultra Electronics. To safeguard critical anti-icing equipment from power surges, electrostatic discharges, lightning, and short circuits during flight, Ultra Electronics turned to TVS diodes from MDE Semiconductor, Inc.  In this article, we’ll put into perspective the dangers associated with icing conditions for an aircraft that is thousands of feet in the air. We’ll also discuss how our products integrate into protective

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