Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT
- Part No.:
- 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC SMC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,101
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Product details
Overview
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in the SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 22.8 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), and clamps transients up to 32.4 V at 54.2 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform). It is widely deployed in automotive sensor signal lines and industrial I/O interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT datasheet, 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT pinout, 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT application, or 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, bidirectional clamping behavior, thermal derating curves, RoHS-compliant commercial-grade qualification, and direct alternatives for ESD/surge protection design-in.
Technical Context
The 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT operates as a symmetrical avalanche diode, conducting equally in both directions when reverse voltage exceeds its breakdown threshold. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low incremental surge resistance, enabling precise clamping within 1 ns response time.
Rated for 150 °C maximum junction temperature and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, it supports reflow soldering up to 260 °C peak. Its 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance requires appropriate PCB copper pad area (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm per terminal) to sustain 6.5 W steady-state power dissipation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off) | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines safe operating window for protected circuit. |
| VBR (Min/Max) | 22.8 V / 25.2 V at 1.0 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering without premature conduction. |
| VC @ IPPM | 32.4 V at 54.2 A - Clamped voltage during 1500 W transient; determines maximum stress on downstream ICs. |
| IPPM | 54.2 A (10/1000 μs) - Peak surge current capability; validates protection against lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak pulse power rating; enables single-event suppression of high-energy transients without failure. |
| TJmax | 150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; sets thermal design limits for PCB layout and ambient operating conditions. |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Surface-mount outline with 7.75 mm × 6.22 mm footprint; compatible with automated placement and J-STD-020 reflow. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated, polarity-unmarked for bidirectional operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Terminal A | One side of symmetrical junction; connects to line under protection (e.g., CAN_H or RS-485 A). |
| Cathode | Terminal K | Other side of symmetrical junction; connects to same line (bidirectional symmetry means no functional distinction). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Identical VBR, VC, and IPPM in both polarities - eliminates need for polarity-aware routing in differential or AC-coupled lines. |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Sustains IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV/2 Ω) surge events without degradation - suitable for harsh industrial environments. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.42) | Minimizes overvoltage overshoot during fast transients - critical for protecting 3.3 V or 5 V logic interfaces. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Unlimited floor life at ≤30 °C/60% RH - allows direct use from reel without baking prior to SMT assembly. |
| RoHS-compliant, commercial grade | E3 suffix indicates lead-free, halogen-free, and JEDEC JESD201 Class 2 whisker-resistant terminations - meets global environmental compliance. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial RS-485 Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure/temperature sensors in engine control units exposed to load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across signal and ground to clamp ±200 V transients before reaching ADC input or signal conditioner. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 12-bit SAR ADCs by limiting voltage to ≤32.4 V during 10/1000 μs surges. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding half-duplex RS-485 transceivers (e.g., SN65HVD72) in factory automation networks subject to cable-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed differentially between A/B bus lines and ground to suppress common-mode transients while preserving signal integrity. Use Value: Maintains data reliability under IEC 61000-4-4 EFT (4 kV) and IEC 61000-4-5 surge (2 kV) testing without bit errors or reset events. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD | Telecom DSL Line Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-level protection on USB 2.0 D+/D− lines behind primary ESD arrays, handling system-level CDM and contact discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS absorbing >15 kV HBM ESD events before reaching USB PHY controller. Use Value: Reduces failure rate in portable devices by clamping sub-1 ns ESD spikes to <35 V, well below 3.3 V PHY absolute maximum ratings. |
Use Scenario: Front-end surge suppression on ADSL/VDSL line cards interfacing twisted-pair telephone lines vulnerable to lightning induction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional device connected between tip/ring and ground to shunt induced common-mode surges up to 1000 V. Use Value: Enables compliance with GR-1089-CORE telecom surge immunity requirements while maintaining <1 pF junction capacitance at 0 V bias. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ20CA | Same VWM (20 V), lower PPPM (600 W), SMB package (smaller footprint, higher RθJA = 85 °C/W). | Limited to lower-energy transients (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 2); unsuitable for high-current industrial surges. | Select when board space is constrained and surge threat level is moderate (e.g., consumer IoT gateways). |
| 1.5KE20CA | Same VWM and PPPM, but through-hole DO-201AE package; higher IPPM (64.5 A) due to better thermal mass. | Requires wave soldering or hand assembly; incompatible with fully SMT production lines. | Choose only for prototyping or legacy through-hole designs where rework flexibility outweighs automation needs. |
Compared with SMBJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT uniquely balances 1500 W surge capacity, SMC surface-mount compatibility, and commercial-grade RoHS compliance-making it optimal for high-volume automotive and industrial SMT production where both performance and process scalability matter.
Availability
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial RS-485 nodes, and telecom line interface cards requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and application-specific optimization.
The 1.5SMC Series was engineered for high-power, surface-mount transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom systems-delivering consistent clamping performance across wide temperature ranges and aggressive surge profiles.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT at its rated peak pulse current?
The 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT clamps to a maximum of 32.4 V when subjected to its rated 54.2 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is guaranteed per Vishay's datasheet (Document Number 88303, page 2) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case surge events.
Is the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 qualification?
No, the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT is RoHS-compliant commercial-grade (E3 suffix) and not AEC-Q101 qualified. For automotive use, select the 1.5SMC20CAHE3_A variant (HE3 suffix), which carries AEC-Q101 qualification and is explicitly listed in the ordering table for voltages up to 220 V.
How does the bidirectional nature of the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT affect its placement on a PCB?
The 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT has no polarity marking and functions identically in both directions, so it can be placed without orientation constraints across differential lines (e.g., RS-485 A/B) or single-ended signals referenced to ground. This simplifies layout and eliminates risk of reverse installation during automated assembly.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation for the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT at 50 °C ambient?
The 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT is rated for 6.5 W power dissipation on an infinite heatsink at TA = 50 °C. In real-world PCB layouts, derating applies: with 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads per terminal, it sustains ~3.5 W continuously at 70 °C ambient, per thermal resistance (RθJA = 75 °C/W) and derating curve in Figure 2 of the datasheet.
Does the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT meet UL 497B recognition for telecom protectors?
Yes, the 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT carries Underwriters Laboratories recognition under UL 497B (file E136766) for both unidirectional and bidirectional configurations, confirming its suitability for telecom line protection applications requiring certified surge suppression devices.
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT 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):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 19V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 27.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 54.2A
- 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)
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT 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 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT?
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT 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 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT?
For technical support, including 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT 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 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT?
All 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT, 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 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5SMC20CA-E3/9AT Tags

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