Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T
- Part No.:
- 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC SMC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,124
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Product details
Overview
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in power and signal lines. It features a 12 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 11.4–12.6 V at 1 mA), 10.2 V stand-off voltage (VWM), and clamps to ≤16.7 V at 89.8 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs), delivering 1500 W peak pulse power. It is widely deployed in automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O protection.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T datasheet, 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T pinout, 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T application, or 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package compatibility, junction temperature range (−65 °C to +150 °C), and AEC-Q101 qualification readiness via HE3/HM3 variants.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics in forward and reverse directions - confirmed by specification notes stating "Electrical characteristics apply in both directions" and marking code "12C". Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown behavior under repetitive surge stress.
The device uses a low-inductance SMC (DO-214AB) package optimized for high-current transients, with thermal resistance RθJA = 75 °C/W and RθJL = 15 °C/W, enabling effective heat dissipation during 10/1000 µs pulses up to 1500 W. It meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 and supports lead-free reflow up to 260 °C peak.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 11.4 V / 12.6 V at 1 mA - defines reliable conduction onset under surge conditions |
| VWM | 10.2 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 5 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤16.7 V at 89.8 A - clamping voltage limiting protected circuit stress during 10/1000 µs surge |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak pulse power handling with 0.01% duty cycle, critical for lightning/inductive spike immunity |
| IPPM | 89.8 A - maximum non-repetitive surge current capability under standardized waveform |
| TJ Range | −65 °C to +150 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive and industrial ambient environments |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - industry-standard surface-mount outline with 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pad thermal design |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated, footprint compatible with JEDEC DO-214AB standard. Polarity: unmarked for bidirectional operation - no cathode band.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal (positive polarity) | One of two symmetrical terminals; conducts when voltage exceeds VBR in either direction |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal (negative polarity) | Identical to Anode in bidirectional configuration; no functional distinction - fully symmetric |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines without polarity concerns |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV/2 Ω) on 5 V–12 V rails without failure |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures long-term stability of VBR and low leakage (<5 µA at VWM) across temperature and life cycle |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Supports standard SMT reflow profiles including Pb-free peak at 260 °C without moisture-induced damage |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | HE3/HM3 variants available - enables direct upgrade to automotive-grade reliability without layout change |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC Digital Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor front-ends (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ESD events in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed between signal line and ground, responding within <1 ns to transients. Use Value: Limits induced surge voltage to ≤16.7 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream 12 V-tolerant ICs. |
Use Scenario: Shielding 24 V digital input channels in programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced surges and contact bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage shunt element located at connector entry point, upstream of optocoupler or Schmitt trigger. Use Value: Absorbs 89.8 A transient energy while maintaining system uptime - eliminates need for redundant fusing or reset logic. |
| Telecom Line Card Protection | Consumer Power Adapter Output |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding Ethernet PHYs and PoE injectors from lightning-induced common-mode surges on RJ45 ports. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Common-mode TVS pair (two 1.5SMC12CA devices) across differential pairs, referenced to chassis ground. Use Value: Symmetric clamping ensures balanced suppression without skewing differential signaling integrity. |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage clamp on 12 V DC output of wall adapters used in smart home hubs and set-top boxes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage protector after DC-DC regulation, guarding against regulator fault or capacitor failure. Use Value: Fast response and low clamping voltage prevent downstream USB-PD controller or SoC brownout or damage. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12CA | Lower peak power (600 W), smaller SMB (DO-214AA) package, same VBR/VC specs | Suitable for space-constrained consumer PCBs but insufficient for industrial 1500 W surge requirements | Select when board area is critical and surge threat level is ≤IEC 61000-4-5 Level 2 |
| 1.5KE12CA | Through-hole TO-218 package, identical 1500 W rating and VBR, higher thermal mass | Preferred for high-reliability power supply inputs where manual assembly or wave soldering is used | Choose when legacy through-hole manufacturing or enhanced thermal cycling endurance is required |
Compared with SMBJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T uniquely balances high-power SMT compatibility, automotive-ready qualification path, and DO-214AB footprint - making it optimal for next-gen automotive modules and industrial edge controllers requiring automated assembly and field durability.
Availability
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial PLC I/O hardening, telecom line card surge suppression, and consumer power adapter safety requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Vishay General Semiconductor is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in diodes, rectifiers, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific performance.
The 1.5SMC Series was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom systems where compact SMT form factor and repeatable clamping performance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T under maximum surge conditions?
The 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T clamps to a maximum of 16.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 89.8 A (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured per standard test conditions defined in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 88303), and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during worst-case transient events.
Is the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T suitable for automotive applications?
The 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T itself is RoHS-compliant commercial-grade; however, Vishay offers AEC-Q101 qualified versions under ordering codes like 1.5SMC12CAHE3_A. While the -E3/57T variant is not certified, its construction (glass-passivated junction, MSL Level 1, 150 °C TJmax) aligns with automotive baseline requirements - many Tier 1 suppliers use it in non-safety-critical modules pending full qualification.
How does the bidirectional design of the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T affect its placement on the PCB?
The 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T has no polarity marking and functions identically in both directions, so it can be placed without orientation constraints - unlike unidirectional TVS diodes that require cathode alignment. This simplifies automated pick-and-place and reduces assembly errors in differential or AC-coupled signal paths.
What is the thermal resistance of the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T, and how does it impact layout design?
The 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 75 °C/W when mounted on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads per terminal. To maintain safe operation under repetitive surges, PCB layout must replicate this minimum pad area - undersized traces or isolated pads will cause excessive junction temperature rise and premature degradation.
Does the 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T meet any international surge immunity standards out of the box?
The 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T is characterized to withstand 1500 W peak pulse power per 10/1000 µs waveform (IEC 61000-4-5 compliant test condition), and its clamping performance directly supports system-level compliance with IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT), and IEC 61000-4-5 (surge). Final system certification requires validation with full circuit implementation and board-level testing.
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Series:
- 1.5SMC, TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 10.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 11.4V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 16.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 89.8A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMCJ)
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T?
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T?
For technical support, including 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T?
All 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5SMC12CA-E3/57T Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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