Littelfuse Launches FlatSuppressX™ TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL TVS Diodes for 48 V Automotive Systems
Ultra low-clamping voltage improves protection of DC/DC converters, gate drivers, and power ICs
Littelfuse, Inc. (NASDAQ: LFUS), a diversified, industrial technology manufacturing company shaping solutions for the safe and efficient transfer of electrical energy, announced the TP5.0SMD-FL (5 kW) and TP1KSMB-FL (1 kW) Series FlatSuppressX™ TVS Diodes, designed to protect 48 V automotive electronics from transient overvoltage events while delivering ultra-low and stable clamping performance.
Engineered for next-generation 48 V systems in compliance with ISO 21780, the new TVS diodes address a critical challenge in automotive design: protecting increasingly sensitive ICs—such as dc/dc converters and gate drivers—without exceeding their absolute maximum ratings. Using Littelfuse’s proprietary FlatSuppressX™ technology, the devices maintain a near-constant, low-clamping voltage during fast transients and high-energy surge events, helping designers reduce system stress and overall BOM cost.
Unlike conventional TVS devices, which can exhibit higher and variable clamping voltages, FlatSuppressX™ devices leverage an advanced foldback/snapback I-V characteristic to tightly control transient response while avoiding latch-up risk. This approach enables the use of lower voltage-rated components, improving design flexibility and cost efficiency.
“The key advantage of FlatSuppressX™ technology is its ability to deliver extremely low and stable clamping voltage in 48 V systems,” said Charlie Cai, Director of Product Management, Protection Business, Littelfuse. “This allows engineers to protect sensitive ICs better while meeting ISO 21780 requirements and reducing total system cost without latch-up risk.”
The TP5.0SMD-FL Series provides up to 5000 W peak pulse power capability in a DO-214AB (SMC) package. At the same time, the TP1KSMB-FL Series delivers 1000 W in a compact DO-214AA (SMB) package, offering scalable protection options for different system requirements. Both series are AEC-Q101 qualified and designed for high-reliability automotive applications.
Key Features and Benefits
- FlatSuppressX™ technology: exhibits a flatter clamping characteristic with a significantly lower clamping voltage than conventional TVS devices.
- High-surge capability: 5 kW (TP5.0SMD-FL) and 1 kW (TP1KSMB-FL) options.
- ISO 21780 alignment: designed for 48 V automotive system protection.
- Enhanced system efficiency: enables use of lower-rated downstream components.
- AEC-Q101 qualified: supports automotive-grade reliability.
- Fast response time: typically <1 ps for rapid transient suppression.
- Low-profile, surface-mount packages: optimize PCB space.
The devices are optimized for protecting I/O interfaces, power buses, and other vulnerable circuits in automotive electronics, particularly in 48 V architectures.
Target Markets and Applications
- Automotive 48 V systems (ISO 21780 compliant)
- Battery Disconnect Units (BDUs)
- Zone Control Units (ZCUs)
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems
- DC/DC converters and power distribution networks
By combining high-surge capability with ultra-low-clamping voltage, the TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL Series help engineers design more robust, efficient, and cost-effective automotive electronics platforms.
FAQs – TP5.0SMD-FL and TP1KSMB-FL Series FlatSuppressX™ TVS Diodes
- What is FlatSuppressX™ technology?
FlatSuppressX™ is a proprietary Littelfuse TVS architecture that uses advanced foldback/snapback behavior to maintain a near-constant, low-clamping voltage during transient events. Doing so improves protection accuracy compared to conventional TVS devices. - Why is low-clamping voltage important in 48 V systems?
Lower clamping voltage reduces stress on sensitive ICs with tight absolute maximum ratings. This is critical in modern 48 V architectures where power density and component sensitivity are increasing. - How do these devices reduce BOM cost?
By enabling lower clamping levels, designers can use lower-voltage-rated MOSFETs and power ICs, reducing component costs and improving overall system efficiency. - What applications are these TVS diodes best suited for?
They are ideal for 48 V automotive electronics, including BDUs, ZCUs, EPS systems, and dc/dc converters, where compliance with ISO 21780 and robust transient protection are required. - How do they compare to conventional TVS diodes?
Conventional TVS devices often have higher and less predictable clamping voltages. FlatSuppressX™ devices provide a flatter, more controlled response, improving protection and reducing system-level risk. - Are these devices automotive-qualified?
Yes. Both series are AEC-Q101 qualified and designed for high-reliability automotive environments, including wide temperature operation and harsh transient conditions.
Source: Littelfuse
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