Set Top Box ESD and Cable Discharge ProtectionWhether via cable, DSL or satellite, the set top box has been central to driving the digital television revolution. The semiconductor transceivers used in set top boxes are shrinking in size as IC manufacturers leverage new process technology to achieve smaller transistor geometries. As smaller, more advanced integrated circuits enable the evolution of the set top box, new challenges will emerge with respect to transient voltage threats. Topics such as cable discharge and ESD protection for set top boxes are at the top of this list. Though sometimes confusing to the consumer, the back panel of the typical set top box features an impressive array of input/output ports and signal connectors. Routine user interaction with these interfaces exposes delicate circuitry to dangerous ESD threats, so set top box ESD protection becomes a must. Depending upon the length of the cable and thus the charge level present, a cable discharge can pose even greater risk to electronic equipment than ESD. Due to the high-energy in the cable discharge event, the EMC community is increasingly more concerned with modeling these events and finding set top box cable discharge protection solutions. Adequate protection of set top box interface transmission lines requires reduction of transient surges to a safe level. If chosen carefully and early in the design cycle, set top box ESD and cable discharge protection can provide compliance engineers a good system-level strategy to safeguard the key interfaces on set top boxes. > Download "Set Top Box ESD Protection and Cable Discharge Protection" article to learn more. |