Diotec Semiconductor AG

In the easiest case, these inductive loads are controlled by a switch and are simply turned on or off. During turn-on, a current flows through the inductor coil. When the switch turns off, the coil forces the current flow to continue. The free-wheeling diode provides a path where this current can flow. As such, it avoids the generation of a huge voltage spike, like it is (purposely) seen at ignition coils. It protects transistors and other switching components from high-voltage peaks, ensuring reliable and efficient motor control.

As long as there is no high frequent switching required (PWM), but just a simple turning on and off; standard recovery rectifiers are state-of-the-art. The S5MSMB is a 5 A / 1000 V device being well suited for this type of application. It meets the challenging demands of efficient and space-saving designs. Coming in SMB/DO-214AA package, it combines low reverse current, low forward voltage drop and robust reverse characteristic for best efficiency and cost performance ratio.