
Z-System – Zener Barriers
Technical Specifications
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6
Technical Specifications
6.1
Typical Characteristics
The following are typical characteristics used in the description of a zener barrier.
Working voltage at 10
µ
A
The maximum voltage that can be applied between the terminals in the non-
hazardous area and ground at a defined leakage current. This is the upper value
of the recommended operating range.
Maximum series resistance (
)
This is the maximum resistance that can be measured between the two end
terminals of a barrier channel. It is obtained from the sum of any resistors and the
resistance value of the fuse at an ambient temperature of 20
°
C (68
°
F).
Maximum supply voltage
The maximum voltage that can be supplied between the terminals in the non-
hazardous area and ground without the fuse responding. This value is determined
for an intrinsically safe circuit and an ambient temperature of 20
°
C (68
°
F).
Fuse rating (mA)
The function of the fuse is to create an open circuit in the event of a power supply
fault. It also protects the zener diodes from damage in the event of an abnormal
operating condition.
Polarity
Zener barriers are available in various versions. On zener barriers for positive
polarity the anodes of the zener diodes are grounded. On Zener barriers for
negative polarity the cathodes are grounded. On zener barriers for alternating
polarity (AC), interconnected zener diodes are employed and one side is
grounded. These zener barriers can be used for both alternating voltage signals
and direct voltage signals.
Note!
For more information see the corresponding datasheets.
Z-System
–
Zener Barriers