“Nexperia Unveils 48V ESD Protection Diode for EV Data Networks”

Nexperia has introduced the industry’s first portfolio of ESD protection diodes tailored for 48 V automotive data communication networks. These AEC-Q101 qualified devices are engineered to optimize space and cost efficiency while maintaining signal integrity at higher data rates, a critical necessity for contemporary EV and hybrid EV systems.

For professionals in automotive electronics, powertrain systems, and embedded communications, this release directly fills a longstanding void in ESD protection for high-voltage board nets and traditional network protocols now prevalent in EV designs.

Adapting to the 48 V Transition in Automotive Networks

With the shift of electric and hybrid vehicles from conventional 12 V or 24 V architectures to 48 V systems for enhanced efficiency, safeguarding their communication lines — such as CAN, CAN-FD, LIN, and FlexRay — has become increasingly complex. These established protocols, though mature and widely utilized, are now operating in environments with notably elevated voltage levels.

“Historically, automotive manufacturers faced a lack of suitable ESD protection solutions tailored for 48 V data lines,” noted Alexander Benedix, Head of Product Group Protection and Filtering at Nexperia. “Consequently, they often resorted to workarounds, like incorporating an additional 12 V power rail or connecting multiple lower-voltage (36 V) protection diodes in parallel, to ensure adequate system protection. With this new range, designers dealing with 48 V board nets can now streamline their processes, reduce costs, and deliver top-tier ESD protection for automotive networks.”

Enhanced Design Flexibility with Ultra-Low Capacitance

Nexperia’s latest diode series comprises six devices spanning three voltage ranges: 54 V (PESD2CANFD54VT-Q and PESD2CANFD54LT-Q), 60 V (PESD2CANFD60VT-Q and PESD2CANFD60LT-Q), and 72 V (PESD2CANFD72VT-Q and PESD2CANFD72LT-Q). These diodes boast ultra-low capacitance levels as low as 3.4 pF, rendering them ideal for high-speed protocols like CAN-FD without compromising signal fidelity.

Packaged in the popular SOT23 format, these devices are meticulously designed to meet the stringent footprint and reliability requirements of modern automotive platforms. The diodes’ capability to function at higher VRWM levels empowers system designers to eliminate cumbersome and inefficient workaround solutions.

For comprehensive specifications and application insights, please visit: nexperia.com/can-fd