How are the diodes helping in the attached ckt :-
\$\begingroup\$
\$\endgroup\$
Add a comment
|
2 Answers
\$\begingroup\$
\$\endgroup\$
0
They are probably meant to act as voltage clamps.
Presumably, J29 is a connector that is plugged into something in the outside world. A fan in this case. Transient voltage spikes could find their way onto the wires and travel into the circuit. If the transient voltage rises one diode-drop above B_VCC_AUX_5V, the diode will switch on and allow current to flow into the voltage source. The diode effectively clamps the voltage on the line to one diode drop above the voltage source, reducing the ability of the transient spike to damage any upstream components.
This circuit will probably get the job done, but is not necessarily the best choice of transient protection. Standard silicon diodes, such is as the 1N4148, have very low leakage currents, but are relatively slow to turn on. So transients may have time to damage circuit components before the 1N4148 clamps the voltage. TVS diodes are specifically designed to protect against transients in digital systems and would be well suited for this application.
\$\begingroup\$
\$\endgroup\$
3
They are clamping diodes to protect where the signals are going.
If the voltage from TACH_FAN0 or PWM_FAN0 exceed 5.7V, the diodes turn on and clamp the voltage to 5.7V.
-
\$\begingroup\$ But Tacho is an output & PWM is an input signal. How can voltage go beyond 5V on those pins? \$\endgroup\$– OshiCommented Jun 10, 2015 at 6:49
-
\$\begingroup\$ Why are there seat belts in cars if no one wants to get into accident ? It's safety and protection. It's to protect the circuit that is being driven by the signal. \$\endgroup\$– efox29Commented Jun 10, 2015 at 6:52
-
\$\begingroup\$ transients coming along the lines.... \$\endgroup\$– user16222Commented Jun 10, 2015 at 9:00