Semtech Corporation GS2984-INTE3

Overview

GS2984-INTE3 from Semtech is a Transient Diverting Suppressor (TDS) designed for high-energy Electrical Overstress (EOS) protection of 22V-rated power or data lines. It delivers ±30kV IEC 61000-4-2 ESD immunity, 40A peak pulse current (8/20μs), constant 27.5–28V clamping across 24–40A, 20mΩ dynamic resistance, and 175pF junction capacitance in a DFN 1.6×1.6×0.55mm 6-lead package. It is deployed in USB Type-C PD bus protection.

For engineers reviewing the GS2984-INTE3 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include clamping voltage stability over temperature and peak current, low dynamic resistance for minimal voltage overshoot, DFN footprint compatibility, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 standards for industrial and portable electronics.

Technical Context

The GS2984-INTE3 uses a surge-rated FET as its primary protection element, activated by a precision trigger circuit upon detection of overvoltage-enabling near-constant clamping voltage independent of transient amplitude. Unlike conventional TVS diodes, its clamping behavior is governed by the FET's R_DS(on), not fixed dynamic resistance.

It operates across –40°C to +125°C with stable 27.5–28V clamping at both 24A and 40A (1.2/50μs + 8/20μs combination waveform, R_S = 2Ω), and maintains <600nA reverse leakage at 22V. Its functional architecture separates input (pins 4–6) and ground (pins 1–3) terminals to minimize parasitic inductance during surge conduction.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

GS2984-INTE3 is housed in a Pb-free, RoHS-compliant DFN 1.6mm × 1.6mm × 0.55mm 6-lead package with exposed thermal pad (no internal thermal pad required; energy dissipated in silicon). Pin 1 is marked with a laser dot. All GND pins must be connected for full 40A surge capability; all IN pins must be paralleled for optimal current sharing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.

Compared with TDS2211P.C, GS2984-INTE3 shares identical protection performance but may differ in traceability or logistics labeling; versus uClamp2411ZA, GS2984-INTE3 provides 67% higher surge current rating and 2.5× lower clamping voltage at rated current - making it the sole suitable option for 22V power bus hardening.

Availability

GS2984-INTE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB Type-C PD systems, industrial load switch interfaces, IoT edge power inputs, notebook/tablet DC power rails, and storage device power buses requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for GS2984-INTE3 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Semtech Corporation is a U.S.-based fabless semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for precision sensing, protection, and signal integrity.

The Transient Diverting Suppressor (TDS) product line was developed to replace conventional TVS diodes in high-reliability power rail protection, delivering stable clamping and superior surge handling for USB, industrial, and computing applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous operating voltage for GS2984-INTE3?

The GS2984-INTE3 has a reverse stand-off voltage (V_RWM) of 22V, meaning it can continuously withstand up to 22V DC or RMS on its input terminals without entering conduction. This makes it suitable for 20V USB PD VBUS and other 22V-rated power rails. Exceeding this voltage risks premature triggering or degradation. The GS2984-INTE3 datasheet specifies V_RWM = 22V under standard test conditions (T = 25°C).

Does GS2984-INTE3 require a thermal pad on the PCB?

No, GS2984-INTE3 does not require an external thermal pad. Its DFN package dissipates surge energy within the silicon die during transient events, and the datasheet explicitly states "no thermal pad is needed." Instead, robust grounding via pins 1–3 and multiple vias to the internal ground plane is critical for achieving its rated 40A peak pulse current. The GS2984-INTE3 layout guidelines emphasize low-inductance ground routing-not thermal copper.

How does GS2984-INTE3 achieve constant clamping voltage across varying surge currents?

GS2984-INTE3 achieves constant clamping by using a surge-rated FET as the primary shunt element, controlled by a precision trigger circuit. When triggered, the FET enters a low-R_DS(on) state (~20mΩ), causing clamping voltage to converge near the trigger circuit's breakdown voltage rather than rising linearly with current as in TVS diodes. This mechanism ensures GS2984-INTE3 clamps at 27.5–28V from 24A to 40A, per IEC 61000-4-5 testing.

Can GS2984-INTE3 be used to protect high-speed data lines like USB SuperSpeed?

No, GS2984-INTE3 is not intended for high-speed data line protection. With 175pF junction capacitance, it would severely degrade signal integrity on USB 3.x, PCIe, or DisplayPort lanes. It is engineered specifically for power rail or low-speed signal protection (e.g., VBUS, CC, SBU, or load switch inputs). For SuperSpeed lines, Semtech recommends low-capacitance devices like RClamp3371ZC (<0.25pF); GS2984-INTE3 serves complementary, not overlapping, roles in full-system protection schemes.

What is the recommended PCB layout for optimal surge performance of GS2984-INTE3?

For optimal surge performance, place GS2984-INTE3 as close as possible to the protected connector. Route pins 4–6 (IN) together in a single short, wide trace to the protected line; connect pins 1–3 (GND) to a solid ground plane using ≥3 vias. Avoid stubs or splits in the IN or GND paths. Follow Semtech's land pattern for the DFN 1.6×1.6mm package, and ensure no copper beneath the device except for GND. This layout minimizes parasitic inductance, preserving GS2984-INTE3's 40A capability and fast response.