STMicroelectronics BYW100-200: The Ultimate Guide to This Versatile Rectifier Diode

The BYW100-200 from STMicroelectronics represents an excellent solution for engineers seeking reliable rectification in electronic circuits. While officially marked as obsolete, this component continues to be widely used in both new designs and legacy systems due to its robust performance characteristics. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore every aspect of the BYW100-200 diode to help you understand its capabilities and potential applications.

Detailed Product Specifications

Electrical Characteristics

• Maximum Reverse Voltage: 200V DC
• Average Forward Current: 1.5A
• Peak Forward Surge Current: 50A (8.3ms single half-sine-wave)
• Forward Voltage Drop: 1.2V typical @ 4.5A
• Reverse Leakage Current: 10 A maximum @ 200V
• Junction Capacitance: 15pF typical @ 4V, 1MHz

Switching Performance

• Reverse Recovery Time: 35ns typical
• Recovery Charge: 15nC typical
• Forward Recovery Time: 500ns typical

Thermal Characteristics

• Maximum Junction Temperature: 150 C
• Storage Temperature Range: -65 C to +175 C
• Thermal Resistance: 40 C/W junction to ambient

Package Information

The BYW100-200 comes in the industry-standard DO-15 (DO-204AC) axial-leaded package, which offers excellent mechanical stability and heat dissipation. The package dimensions are:

• Body length: 4.1mm
• Body diameter: 2.7mm
• Lead length: 25.4mm standard
• Weight: approximately 0.35 grams

Applications and Use Cases

Primary Applications

• AC/DC power supply rectification
• Freewheeling diodes in inductive load circuits
• Reverse polarity protection
• Battery charging circuits
• DC-DC converter circuits

Industry-Specific Implementations

• Industrial Automation: Used in PLC I/O protection circuits
• Consumer Electronics: Found in power adapters and LED drivers
• Automotive: Secondary rectification in non-critical systems
• Telecommunications: Power conditioning in base station equipment

Design Considerations

Thermal Management

While the DO-15 package provides decent thermal characteristics, designers should consider:

• Maintaining adequate airflow around the component
• Using thermal relief pads on PCBs
• Derating current at elevated temperatures

Circuit Protection

For optimal reliability:

• Implement current-limiting resistors in series
• Consider transient voltage suppression for inductive loads
• Maintain proper clearance and creepage distances

Comparison with Modern Alternatives

While the BYW100-200 remains capable, newer alternatives offer:

• Lower forward voltage drops (Schottky diodes)
• Faster switching speeds (ultrafast recovery diodes)
• Higher temperature ratings
• Surface-mount packaging options

Purchasing Information

Despite its obsolete status, the BYW100-200 remains available through:

• Authorized STMicroelectronics distributors with remaining stock
• Specialized electronic component brokers
• Online marketplaces with verified sellers

When sourcing, always verify:

• Authenticity through original packaging and markings
• Date codes for freshness
• Seller reputation and return policies

Technical Support Resources

For design assistance with the BYW100-200:

• Consult STMicroelectronics' legacy documentation
• Reference application notes for similar current diodes
• Engage with engineering communities for practical experience

This expanded guide provides comprehensive information about the BYW100-200 diode, helping engineers make informed decisions about its implementation in their projects while optimizing for search visibility.