USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a ubiquitous interface standard primarily used to connect computers and mobile devices to peripherals. The latest generation, USB4 version 1.0, was released in 2019, supporting data transfer rates up to 40 Gbps and offering backward compatibility with Thunderbolt 3 and 4. USB4 utilizes the Type-C connector exclusively. The Type-C interface offers several advantages, including reversible plug orientation and support for higher power delivery for charging.
Figure 1: USB Type-C Connector End View
Figure 2: USB Type-C Pinout View
JY Electronics Recommended Solution: TT0201SA-HFx
As electronic devices trend towards miniaturization and lower power consumption, semiconductor manufacturing processes continue to shrink. This increases the susceptibility of core components to damage from Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and Electrical Overstress (EOS). When selecting ESD/EOS protection for high-speed USB4 interfaces, the following key considerations apply:
1、Signal Integrity: To preserve the integrity of high-speed data transmission over USB4, ESD protection devices with a capacitance of < 0.2 pF are recommended.
2、ESD Withstand Capability: The Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) should exhibit a high ESD withstand capability, capable of withstanding at least 8 kV contact and air discharge ESD pulses as defined by IEC 61000-4-2.
3、Clamping Voltage: A lower clamping voltage is preferred. Selecting ESD protection devices with snapback characteristics can further reduce clamping voltage, providing superior protection for downstream chips.
To address these demanding requirements, JY Electronics introduces the TT0201SA-HFx TVS diode, specifically designed for TX and RX line protection in USB4 applications, safeguarding against ESD/EOS damage. The TT0201SA-HFx features an ultra-compact DFN0603-2L package (0.6 mm × 0.3 mm × 0.3 mm), an ultra-low working voltage (VRWM = 1 V), an ultra-low capacitance (Cj = 0.16 pF at VR = 0 V and f = 1 MHz), and a low clamping voltage VC = 4.2 V (@IPP = 3.5 A). Its fast response time effectively mitigates the risk of ESD/EOS-induced failures.
The compact footprint of the TT0201SA-HFx minimizes PCB space requirements while delivering robust protection for high-speed interfaces. Typical applications include high-speed data ports in laptops, desktops, tablets, e-readers, smartphones, external storage solutions, portable wearables, TWS earphones, IoT modules, and security modules, providing reliable ESD and surge protection.
