4 2001 Semtech Corp. www.semtech.com
PROTECTION PRODUCTS
PROTECTION PRODUCTS
SM712
RS-485 Common Mode Voltages
Device Connection for Protection of Two RS-485 Data
Lines
EIA RS-485 specifies a ±7V ground difference between
devices on the bus. This permits the bus voltage to
range from +12V (5V + 7V) to -7V (0 - 7V).
The SM712 is designed to protect two RS-485 data
lines in extended common mode applications. The
SM712 may be used to protect devices from transient
voltages resulting from ESD, EFT, and lightning. The
device is designed with asymmetrical operating volt-
ages for optimum protection. The TVS diodes at pins 1
& 2 have a working voltage of 12 volts. These pins are
connected to the differential data line pairs. The TVS
diodes at pin 3 have a working voltage of 7 volts. Pin
3 is connected to ground. The internal TVS diodes of
the SM712 will protect the transceiver input from
positive transient voltage spikes greater than 12V and
negative spikes greater than 7V.
A series current limiting resistor may be added in
applications requiring enhanced surge immunity.
Circuit Board Layout Recommendations.
Good circuit board layout is critical for the suppression
of fast rise-time transients such as ESD. The following
guidelines are recommended:
zPlace the SM712 near the input terminals or
connectors to restrict electromagnetic coupling.
zMinimize the path length between the SM712 and
the protected line. This minimizes voltage over-
shoot due to parasitic inductance of board traces.
zUse ground planes whenever possible.
zLong, single trace ground conductors should be
avoided. The ground pin (Pin 3) should be con-
nected directly to a ground plane on the circuit
board for best results.
zMinimize all conductive loops including power and
ground loops.
zNever run critical signals near board edges.
RS-485 Protection Circuit
Applications Information