Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,587
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in the SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for high-energy surge protection. It features a 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 22.8 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), and clamps transients to ≤33.2 V at 45.2 A, making it suitable for protecting automotive sensor signal lines against lightning-induced surges and inductive switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I datasheet, 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I pinout, 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I application, or 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I equivalent, this device serves as a halogen-free, AEC-Q101 qualified TVS for robust ESD and surge immunity in automotive-grade PCB designs where bidirectional clamping, low leakage (<1 μA at 17.1 V), and MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility are required.
Technical Context
The 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I operates as a symmetrical avalanche diode with identical forward and reverse clamping characteristics, enabling bidirectional transient suppression without polarity sensitivity. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown behavior and low incremental surge resistance under repetitive 10/1000 μs pulses at 0.01% duty cycle.
Thermally, it exhibits RθJL = 15 °C/W (junction-to-leads) and RθJA = 75 °C/W (junction-to-ambient on recommended 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads), supporting reliable operation up to TJ = +150 °C. The device meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and is rated for 200 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant conduction begins; defines operating margin below clamping threshold. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 22.8 V min / 25.2 V max at 1 mA - Ensures consistent avalanche initiation across production lots for predictable clamping onset. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 33.2 V at IPPM = 45.2 A - Limits transient voltage seen by protected ICs during worst-case 10/1000 μs surge events. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 1500 W - Sustains high-energy transients such as ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a without degradation when mounted per recommended pad layout. |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | <1 μA at 17.1 V - Minimizes standby power loss and avoids false triggering in low-power sensor interfaces. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Enables deployment in under-hood automotive environments with extended thermal margins. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD per AEC standard; suffix HM3 denotes halogen-free RoHS compliance. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, molded plastic case meeting UL 94 V-0 flammability rating; matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102; no polarity marking for bidirectional configuration.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry point (reverse bias) | One terminal of symmetrical junction; conducts during positive or negative transients relative to cathode. |
| Cathode | Transient current exit point (reverse bias) | Second terminal of symmetrical junction; forms bidirectional clamping path with anode; no band marking. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines (e.g., CAN, LIN, sensor bridges) without polarity concerns. |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Withstands automotive load-dump and ISO 16750-2 surges up to 10/1000 μs waveform without failure when PCB layout follows Vishay's 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm pad recommendation. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates suitability for automotive applications including engine control units, ADAS sensors, and body electronics requiring long-term field reliability. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Suffix HM3 confirms compliance with environmental regulations and eliminates brominated flame retardants in molding compound. |
| MSL Level 1 | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow up to 260 °C peak, simplifying SMT assembly without dry-pack or baking requirements. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial I/O Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure, temperature, or position sensors in engine bay modules exposed to ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) and ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping element placed at connector interface to shunt surge energy before reaching precision ADC or signal conditioner ICs. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤33.2 V, preventing latch-up or damage to downstream 3.3 V or 5 V rail-sensitive components while maintaining <1 μA leakage at 17.1 V. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485/RS-422 differential data lines in factory automation PLCs subjected to lightning-induced ground potential differences. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Common-mode surge suppressor across A/B bus lines, leveraging symmetrical clamping to preserve signal integrity during fast-rising transients. Use Value: Responds in <1 ps to clamp ±33.2 V within 10/1000 μs, preserving data eye opening and avoiding communication errors in noisy industrial environments. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input | Telecom Line Card Surge Protection |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage protection on DC outputs of wall adapters used in smart home hubs, guarding against internal regulator failures or feedback loop faults. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting crowbar element that activates before downstream LDOs or microcontrollers experience overvoltage stress. Use Value: Clamps 20 V nominal rails to 33.2 V during fault conditions, providing 13.2 V headroom for safe shutdown or fuse activation without compromising system availability. |
Use Scenario: Primary protection for Ethernet PHY power pins (e.g., 3.3 V bias supply) on telecom line cards handling PoE-powered devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-and-clamp TVS placed between VDD and GND to absorb induced surges from nearby AC mains coupling or lightning strikes on connected cables. Use Value: Delivers 1500 W pulse handling with <1 μA leakage at 17.1 V, ensuring minimal impact on quiescent current while meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 4 surge immunity requirements. |
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 | Lower PPPM (600 W), same VWM/VBR range, SMB (DO-214AA) package - smaller footprint but reduced thermal mass and surge capacity. | Limited to lower-energy transients (e.g., IEC 61000-4-2 ESD only); unsuitable for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a or lightning-level surges. | Select when board space is constrained and surge threat level is limited to human-body-model ESD or low-duty-cycle switching noise. |
| 1.5KE20CA | Through-hole TO-218 package, same electrical specs, higher thermal inertia - requires manual or wave soldering, not compatible with automated SMT lines. | Used in legacy industrial power supplies where rework tolerance and mechanical robustness outweigh SMT assembly efficiency. | Choose only when existing through-hole infrastructure exists and AEC-Q101 qualification is not required; otherwise prefer 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I for automotive SMT production. |
Compared with SMBJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, the 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free construction, 1500 W surge capability, and SMC surface-mount compatibility - making it the optimal choice for new automotive and high-reliability industrial designs requiring automated assembly and certified reliability.
Availability
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC I/O protection, and telecom line card surge suppression requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I 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 passive components with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The 1.5SMC Series was developed specifically for high-power, surface-mount transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and communications systems demanding AEC-Q101 validation and robust 10/1000 μs surge handling.
FAQ
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I?
The "HM3" suffix in 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification. It confirms compliance with JEDEC JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, MSL Level 1 reflow capability (peak 260 °C), and absence of brominated flame retardants - critical for automotive and green-electronics manufacturing. This distinguishes it from commercial-grade "M3" or "E3" variants.
Is 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I suitable for protecting CAN bus lines?
Yes, 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I is well-suited for CAN bus protection due to its bidirectional clamping, low leakage (<1 μA at 17.1 V), and fast response time. Its 20 V standoff aligns with typical 12 V automotive CAN networks, and clamping at ≤33.2 V prevents damage to transceivers like TJA1042 or SN65HVD230 during ISO 16750-2 or ISO 7637-2 transients - provided layout follows Vishay's recommended 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads per terminal.
How does the 10/1000 μs waveform rating apply to real-world surge events?
The 1500 W rating for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I is specified under the standardized 10/1000 μs double-exponential surge waveform (10 μs rise, 1000 μs decay), which models lightning-induced surges and automotive load-dump events. In practice, this means the device can safely clamp a 45.2 A peak current transient lasting ~1 ms without degradation - assuming proper PCB thermal design (e.g., 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads) and adherence to derating curves above 25 °C ambient.
What is the significance of "CA" in the part number 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I?
The "CA" in 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I explicitly identifies the device as a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor. Unlike unidirectional "A" variants, the "CA" version provides symmetrical clamping in both polarities - essential for protecting AC-coupled, floating, or differential signal paths (e.g., RS-485, CAN, sensor bridges) where voltage reversals occur naturally and polarity marking is impractical.
Does 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I require a heatsink for standard operation?
No, 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I does not require an external heatsink for transient suppression duty cycles (e.g., 0.01% for 10/1000 μs pulses). Its RθJL = 15 °C/W and recommended 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads provide sufficient thermal dissipation for short-duration surges. However, for continuous power dissipation >6.5 W (its PD rating), additional copper area or thermal vias are necessary - but this condition does not occur during normal TVS operation, which is inherently pulsed.
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I 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:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMC)
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I 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 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I?
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I 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 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I 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 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I?
All 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I, 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 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5SMC20CAHM3_A/I Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…

