beskyttelsesdiode

A beskyttelsesdiode, or protection diode, is an electronic component used to protect other sensitive electronic components from transient voltage spikes or surges. These spikes can occur due to various reasons, such as electrostatic discharge (ESD), lightning strikes, or switching transients in power circuits. The protection diode is typically connected in parallel with the component it is protecting.

When the voltage across the diode exceeds a certain threshold, known as the breakdown voltage, the diode rapidly conducts current. This allows the excess energy from the transient surge to be diverted away from the sensitive component, preventing damage. Once the transient event has passed and the voltage returns to normal levels, the diode stops conducting.

There are several types of protection diodes, including Zener diodes, transient voltage suppression (TVS) diodes, and Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) diodes. Zener diodes are commonly used for overvoltage protection and voltage regulation. TVS diodes are designed for fast-acting protection against high-energy transients, often used in telecommunications and automotive applications. MOS diodes are a type of ESD protection device often found in integrated circuits.

The selection of a beskyttelsesdiode depends on factors such as the expected magnitude and duration of the transient voltage, the operating voltage of the protected circuit, and the required response time. Proper application of these diodes is crucial for ensuring the reliability and longevity of electronic systems.