OnChip Devices Introduces Low Capacitance Diode Arrays for Ethernet I O Port ESD Protection



OnChip Devices, a world leader in Integrated Passive Devices (IPD), has introduced a miniature diode with very low input capacitance and high protection levels from electrostatic discharge (ESD) for the Ethernet Port: 10/100/1000Mb/s. PCI adapter cards, hubs, routers, etc. can be susceptible to ESD events when the cable is disconnected from the Ethernet port. The ESD pulse can be introduced directly into the open port, or into the disconnected end of the cable. Without sufficient protection, the Physical Layer Transceivers (PHY) and the Controller chips can be rendered inoperable since they are routinely manufactured using 0.18-micron and 0.13-micron technologies. These small geometries are extremely sensitive to ESD. The OC1214-02MR has back-to-back diodes for AC signals and can safely dissipate ESD strikes of 8kV contact discharge per the requirements of the IEC 61000-4-2 international standard. Despite the exceptionally high ESD level, this device exhibits a very low input capacitance of under 1pF, thereby preventing signal degradation for the high speed lines.

With data serialization, higher bit rates, and increasing screen resolutions, today's computers and consumer products require uncompromising levels of protection against ESD with ultra-low line capacitance to preserve signal integrity. Protecting these systems with OnChip's silicon based diodes has become an essential part of the product's reliability. OC1214-02MR offers channel-to-ground capacitance of less than 1pF and the channel-to-channel capacitance of under 0.4pF. The device clamp voltage is below 10V which virtually eliminates IC latch-up and soft errors.

"Protecting the Ethernet port offers many challenges: The signal is bipolar, the capacitance loading has to be minimal, the clamp voltage has to be low and the ESD protection level has to be very high. The OC1214-02MR diode offers a perfect solution by addressing all these issues." said Ashok Chalaka, President & CEO. "OnChip is already shipping ESD diode arrays (ESD2100) for the USB and HDMI protection. We are pleased to add the Ethernet protection circuit to our ever expanding product portfolio. This is OnChip's eighth consecutive month with a major product announcement."

Availability and Pricing

The OnChip OC1214-02MR is available immediately worldwide and the production pricing is $0.19. Developed at OnChip Devices' Santa Clara facility, these components are produced to the highest quality standards.

About OnChip Devices

OnChip Devices head-quartered in Santa Clara, CA is a global leader in Integrated Passive Devices. With it's own silicon fabrication facility and strong partnerships with full turn-key assembly houses in Asia, OnChip is offering state-of-the-art silicon and ceramic solutions for High-brightness LED, Computing and Consumer Electronics.





OnChip Devices Introduces Low Capacitance Diode Arrays for Ethernet I O Port ESD Protection