SCC3 Again, Solar charger and Transzorbs

Thread Starter

toughspeaker

Joined Jan 28, 2009
40
Hi guys, 667 days ago a thread was started regarding the same circuit here http://forum.allaboutcircuits.com/showthread.php?t=19267. Cant reply in that thread, therefore i must start a new thread. Sorry if its a well betrodden territory.

Im also stuck at trying to find the transzorbs for this circuit. Need substitutes. Cant find the type listed. Are these bidirectional or monodirectional and how do you physically install a monodirectional one, which end pointing to the positive pole for correct orientation? If a kind mind could answer this question, i will then be able to direct some time and resources to try to find a supplement for the TZ1 for this circuit for other newcomers in the future.
 

gootee

Joined Apr 24, 2007
447
They are often called TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) diodes. They are basically zener diodes that have been optimized for reverse breakdown to shunt a lot of current very quickly if the voltage across them rises to a certain level, to prevent the voltage from rising any farther. They respond in picoseconds up to about 2 nanoseconds and can dissipate thousands and even hundreds of thousands of watts for a short time. Here is a document with a simplified circuit diagram that shows the installation orientation: http://www.semtech.com/images/promo/What_are_TVS_Diodes.pdf

Mouser.com and many other parts suppliers have TVS diodes in stock. Mouser.com has links to the supplier website and datasheet, for each part. Do a search there for TVS.
 
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