Schottkyclamped

Schottkyclamped refers to the use of a Schottky diode to limit or clamp voltage levels in an electronic circuit. The Schottky diode is characterized by a very low forward voltage drop, typically between 0.15 and 0.45 volts, and a fast recovery time. These properties make it ideal for clamping applications where rapid response to voltage spikes is required.

In a typical Schottkyclamped circuit, the diode is connected in series with the component that must be protected, such that when the voltage at the component rises above the sum of the desired clamping voltage and the diode’s forward drop, the diode conducts. This conduction shunts excess energy away from the protected element, preventing over‑voltage damage. Because the diode conducts in the forward direction, the clamping voltage can be selected by combining the diode with a series resistor or by using a reference voltage source. The circuit is often called a "Schottky clamp" or "Schottky clamping diode."

The technique is widely employed in power supply design, where it protects switching regulators and MOSFETs from transient voltage spikes. It is also used in RF and high‑frequency signal paths because the Schottky diode introduces minimal series inductance and capacitance. Compared to traditional zener or transient‑voltage‑suppression diodes, Schottky clamping offers superior speed and lower leakage, at the cost of a higher clamping voltage and the necessity of selecting a diode with adequate reverse‑breakdown rating.

Schottkyclamped protection is part of broader strategies for transient voltage suppression and surge protection that also include components such as varistors, gas discharge tubes, and transient‑voltage‑suppression diodes. The combination of high speed, low loss, and ease of integration makes Schottkyclamped circuits a common choice in high‑performance electronic designs.