Low Clamp Automotive Multilayer Varistors - VLAS series

14 October 2019 - 0 Comments

The AVX Corporation, released the new VLAS series of automotive qualified Multilayer Varistors (MLVs) that are designed to provide a lower breakdown and clamping voltage to working voltage ratios compared to other Varistors, previously the ratios were only achievable with transient voltage suppression (TVS) diodes. It consists of Zinc oxide based (ZnO) ceramic semiconductor devices with non linear, bidirectional characteristics similar to the back to back Zener diodes with greater current and energy handling capability and also has an EMI/RFI attenuation.

The VLAS Series Low-Clamp Transguard Automotive MLVs Exibit high current and energy handling capability, multiple strike capabilities, high energy absorption, low leakage, excellent solderability and they doesn’t require any current or energy derating. The series also has RoHS-compliant nickel-barrier-over-pure-tin (Ni/Sn) terminations compatible with lead-free solder processes and are compliant with the ESD performance requirements defined in the AEC-Q200, IEC 61000-4-2, and ISO 10605 standards

Features of VLAS series MLVs:

Combines bidirectional overvoltage circuit protection and broadband EMI/RFI filtering
16V DC working voltage and 35V DC (30V DC- typical) maximum Clamping voltage.
0.1 J – 1.6 J energy ratings and 0.7 -3 J load damping energy
50 – 500 A peak current ratings and 400- 5000pF capacitance
Sub nanosecond (<1ns) response times to ESD strikes.
Operating temperatures -55°C to 125°C.
Qualified to AEC-Q200 and delivers highly reliable performance.
Available in 4 chip sizes: 0603, 0805, 1206, 1210.

Note: More Technical details can be found at the datasheet linked at the bottom of this page.

The VLAS series MLVs can be used in various applications like sensitive automotive, industrial and general electronics applications that require tight clamping voltage and also require optimization of physical space, including infotainment systems, engine control units (ECUs), Microcontroller units (MCUs) and displays. They are supplied in tape and reel packaging for compatibility with automated pick and place machinery, are available on 7” or 13” reels in quantities of 1,000, 4,000, and 10,000 pieces. They have a have a moisture sensitivity level of one (MSL 1), which mitigates common concerns about packaging, storage, and the timing of mounting and reflow processes. Lead-time for the series is currently 14 weeks. For more details about the Varistor can be found in the product page of AVX official website.