In a move to bolster automotive electronics protection, KYOCERA AVX has introduced an advanced range of high-current load dump varistors, expanding its renowned TransGuard Automotive Series. With over two decades of proven performance in providing reliable bidirectional overvoltage protection and EMI/RFI attenuation, this new release marks a significant advancement in automotive circuit protection technology.

Designed as an extension of the trusted TransGuard Automotive Series, these load dump varistors are zinc-oxide-based ceramic semiconductor devices packed into a single, space-saving SMT package. Qualified to AEC-Q200 standards, they offer exceptional performance in safeguarding automotive electronics against voltage transients caused by various disruptions, including ESD, induction motor loads, and module load dump.

Key features of the TransGuard Automotive Series varistors include a monolithic multilayer construction, nonlinear bidirectional voltage-current characteristics, high-current and -energy-handling capabilities, multi-strike capabilities, and rapid sub-nanosecond response times. Additionally, select variants come with glass encapsulation, enhancing resistance against environmental hazards like acids, salts, and chlorite flux.

Notably, the new load dump varistors in the series boast higher peak current ratings of up to 2,000A, making them exceptionally effective at protecting against high-energy load dump transients. These transients, which simulate sudden battery disconnections from alternators, can otherwise cause significant damage to sensitive ICs found in modern automotive designs.

Ideal for use in a wide range of vehicles, including internal combustion engine, hybrid electric, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, these varistors excel in CAN, LIN, and FLEXRAY modules, sensors, and induction motors. They are compact, lightweight, and rated for operating temperatures ranging from -55°C to +125°C without derating.

Furthermore, the TransGuard Automotive Series varistors meet stringent automotive industry standards, including JASO D001 1994 and ISO 7637-2-2004, ensuring reliable protection against transient surges. They are also RoHS compliant, lead-free compatible, and free of any substances of very high concern (SVHCs).

“When compared to similar competing parts, the new TransGuard Automotive Series load dump varistors outperform in energy handling while utilizing a smaller footprint and maintaining all necessary parameters,” said Tyler Lagnese, Product Marketing Manager, KYOCERA AVX. “This allows design engineers to achieve significant performance improvements with the added benefit of space and weight savings, which is especially valuable considering the growing number of electronic systems deployed in automotive applications.”

The initial release of the new TransGuard Automotive Series load dump varistors consists of three standard part numbers (VCAS222016W400, VCAS222016Y390, and VCAS222016Z400) and their glass encapsulated counterparts (VGAS222016W400, VGAS222016Y390, and VGAS222016Z400), but additional codes are currently in development.