May 19, 2003
This line of miniature surface mount devices provides superior electrical performance in computer I/O ports, USB ports, infrared ports and links, RF links, as well as keyboard and mouse circuitry. These USB Series chips are based on AVX�s proven multilayer varistor technology, providing bi-directional ESD protection, EMI attenuation and sub-nanosecond response time.
The USB Series offers problem free solderability characteristics as well as excellent electrical performance. AVX has worked hard to develop a product that provides superior performance in all aspects, including solderability. �AVX has sold tens of millions of these varistors with zero solderability problems reported�, explained Brian Ward � Product manager for AVX.
Reliability is a major advantage of the USB series over diodes. The USB Series have been tested to withstand a large number of repetitive strikes, whereas diodes often fail after a few strikes. Additionally, MLVs are bi-directional so that the designer does not have to utilize multiple, one-way diodes.
Often, designers will use one or more diodes in conjunction with an EMC capacitor and a resistor to achieve the same results that a single USB Series device can accomplish due to inherent parametric features. �This eliminates the need for multiple devices, and therefore the USB series saves component and placement costs,� explains Ward.
The various case size and configurations (new 0402, standard 0603 and 0405 two-element and 0612 four-element array versions) provide designers with a range of options to optimize board layout. Available for applications with circuit voltages up to 18 volts, with an energy rating of 15mJ, and a typical capacitance range from 3pF - 10pF @ 1 MHz, all USB Series chips are rated for operation over the full temperature range from �55�C to +125�C.
AVX Corporation
http://www.avxcorp.com
