Protection device tailored for DisplayPort

Semtech Corp. has introduced the RClamp 0524J, a 5V protection device for DisplayPort and other high-speed interface applications. The TVS array also can be used to protect HDMI 1.3, eSATA, PCIe, InfiniBand and MDDI high-speed data interfaces.

The Displayport interface features a transfer rate of 1.62Gbit/s or 2.7Gbit/s per lane, and a four-lane configuration has a maximum total data rate of 10.8Gbit/s. At these high data rates, a low capacitance protection device is essential, because introducing any significant capacitance on the line will degrade signal integrity, said Semtech. The four-line RClamp0524J is a TVS array with a capacitance of 0.3pF between I/O pins, and can be used on circuits operating at speeds up to 3-GHz without signal attenuation. The ultralow capacitance means that common-mode chokes are not required for impedance compensation in DisplayPort designs.

Protecting DisplayPort systems from ESD, cable discharge event (CDE) or latchup, the RClamp0524J meets the stringent IEC 61000-4-2 standard for ESD protection (±15kV for air, ±8kV for contact). The device also meets IEC standards for electrical fast transients (EFT) and for lightning strikes.

The device comes in a special SLP-style package with an ultra-thin design that reduces trace discontinuities. The package is leadless to reduce stubs that can impact signal quality, and provides a flow-through design to avoid trace routing issues that can impact signal integrity, said Semtech. The device also features a 0.5mm lead pitch so that the differential traces can be tightly coupled for good common-mode noise rejection. These features, combined with a 0.3pF capacitance, mean the devices can be used on two-, four- or six-layer boards without added trace compensation.

The RClamp0524J is available in an 8-pin SLP2710P8 package measuring 2.7mm x 1mm x 0.58mm. The device is RoHS and WEEE compliant.

Pricing starts at 35 cents each in quantities of 1,000. The RClamp0524J (order code: RClamp 0524J.TCT) is available immediately in production quantities.

- Gina Roos
eeProductCenter