Hello TI and fellow community members,
looking for an ESD protection device with low capacitance I came across parts like the TPD2E009. The datasheet claims compliance with IEC61000-4-2 Level 4. The absolute maximum ratings specify, however, a limit of 8kV for air discharge events. According to IEC Level 4 it should withstand at least 15kV. What is the reason for this discrepancy?
Best regards,
Sebastian Winter
Hello Sebastian,
The way the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards work is that you have to pass either the level of Contact Discharge or the level of Air-Gap Discharge, not both. In the case for the TPD2E009, it passes the contact discharge test at 8kV, but does not for the Air-Gap Discharge at 15kV. Since is met one of the requirements, it meets the IEC 61000-4-2 level 4 ESD protection rating. A list of the IEC 61000-4-2 table and respective levels is listed below.
Thanks,
Dwight
