Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 3.0C12CA-M3/H
- Part No.:
- 3.0C12CA-M3/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
3.0C12CA-M3/H.pdf
- Description:
- 3KW, 12V 5%,BIDIR,SMC TVS
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,831
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
3.0C12CA-M3 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for high-energy surge protection with 3000 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 19.9 V clamping voltage at 151 A, and 12 V stand-off voltage. It protects MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in industrial and telecom power rails.
For engineers reviewing the 3.0C12CA-M3 datasheet, 3.0C12CA-M3 pinout, 3.0C12CA-M3 application, or 3.0C12CA-M3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional clamping behavior, 175 °C max junction temperature, MSL Level 1 rating, 30 kV ESD immunity per IEC 61000-4-2, and compatibility with automated SMT assembly on FR4 PCBs.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar device triggered by transient overvoltage events exceeding its 13.3–14.7 V breakdown range. Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time ensure minimal let-through energy during 8/20 μs (1186 A) and 10/1000 μs (151 A) surges.
The device uses silicon avalanche junction technology optimized for repetitive surge handling up to 175 °C junction temperature. Its thermal resistance of 4.0 °C/W (junction-to-mount) enables effective heat transfer to copper pads, supporting high-reliability deployment in power supply input stages and interface protection circuits.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines operating margin below breakdown. |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 13.3–14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche initiation range; ensures reliable triggering above normal rail variations. |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 19.9 V at 151 A (10/1000 μs) - Actual voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; limits stress on downstream components. |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 3000 W (10/1000 μs) - Sustained surge energy absorption capability without failure; validated per ANSI/IEEE C62.35. |
| ESD Immunity | 30 kV contact & air discharge (IEC 61000-4-2) - Enables robust handling in manual assembly and field-deployed equipment. |
| Junction Temperature Range | −55 °C to +175 °C - Supports operation in automotive under-hood, industrial motor drives, and outdoor telecom enclosures. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, MSL Level 1, matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002/JESD 22-B102. Polarity not marked (bidirectional).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (marked end) | Transient current sink node | Connected to protected line; conducts surge current to ground when voltage exceeds VBR. |
| Anode | Reference/return path | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return plane; completes clamping loop during bidirectional transients. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Protects AC-coupled or floating signal lines without polarity constraints; eliminates need for dual-device placement. |
| 30 kW surge rating (8/20 μs) | Withstands lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5; supports Class III/IV protection schemes in telecom infrastructure. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.4) | Minimizes overvoltage overshoot during fast transients; preserves timing margins in high-speed digital interfaces. |
| Thermal resistance RthJM = 4.0 °C/W | Enables efficient heat conduction into PCB copper; allows sustained operation at elevated ambient temperatures without derating. |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Drive Inputs | Telecom Line Card Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting DC bus inputs of variable-frequency drives from inductive switching spikes and utility grid transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element placed across input terminals upstream of rectifier and bulk capacitor. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤19.9 V during 151 A surges, preventing gate oxide damage to IGBT modules and overvoltage shutdown of control ICs. |
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY and PoE controller pins on carrier-grade line cards from lightning-induced surges on RJ45 ports. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional shunt protector on differential pairs and power rails; co-located with common-mode chokes. Use Value: Clamps 8/20 μs surges up to 1186 A while maintaining <100 pF junction capacitance, preserving 100BASE-TX signal integrity. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Consumer Appliance Power Supply Inputs |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 12 V supply inputs of BCMs against load-dump and jump-start transients per ISO 7637-2. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line transient suppressor mounted directly at connector entry point before DC/DC converter. Use Value: Withstands 30 kV ESD events and 175 °C junction temperature, ensuring reliability in under-hood environments with no derating required. |
Use Scenario: Protecting AC-DC adapter primary-side rectifier outputs and secondary-side 5/12 V rails in smart home hubs and displays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS placed after fuse and filter inking to suppress residual switching noise and EFT bursts. Use Value: Provides 3000 W surge capacity with 12 V stand-off, enabling compact design without external MOVs or gas discharge tubes. |
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-E3/52 (Vishay) | Lower PPPM (600 W), same VWM (12 V), SMB package (smaller footprint, higher RthJA = 110 °C/W) | Best suited for space-constrained consumer electronics with lower surge exposure (IEC 61000-4-4 only) | Select when board area is critical and surge threat level is limited to EFT, not lightning. |
| 1.5KE12CA (ON Semiconductor) | Higher VBR (13.3–14.7 V same), but axial DO-15 package, 1500 W PPPM, no MSL Level 1 rating | Requires through-hole assembly; unsuitable for fully SMT production or high-humidity environments | Choose only for legacy repair or cost-sensitive non-automated manufacturing where reflow compatibility is not required. |
Compared with SMBJ12CA-E3/52 and 1.5KE12CA, the 3.0C12CA-M3 delivers 5× higher surge power in an MSL Level 1 SMT package, enabling single-device protection for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 compliance without layout redesign or thermal derating penalties.
Availability
3.0C12CA-M3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, telecom line cards, automotive body control modules, and consumer appliance power supplies requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for 3.0C12CA-M3 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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, thermal performance, and AEC-Q200 qualification.
The 3.0C12CA-M3 belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® SMC family, engineered for high-power transient suppression in harsh environments where long-term stability and surge repeatability are mission-critical.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the 3.0C12CA-M3 under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The 3.0C12CA-M3 clamps to 19.9 V at a peak pulse current of 151 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured and guaranteed per the Vishay datasheet (Document Number 98266, Rev. 09-Jan-2024), and represents the maximum voltage imposed on protected circuitry during such a transient event. The low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.4) ensures tight voltage limiting for sensitive downstream components.
Is the 3.0C12CA-M3 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the 3.0C12CA-M3 is suitable for automotive applications including body control modules and infotainment power supplies. It operates across −55 °C to +175 °C, meets MSL Level 1 for reflow compatibility, and withstands 30 kV ESD per IEC 61000-4-2. While not AEC-Q200 qualified out-of-box, its thermal and surge robustness aligns with under-hood requirements when validated per system-level test plans.
Does the 3.0C12CA-M3 have polarity marking, and how is it oriented on the PCB?
No, the 3.0C12CA-M3 is a bidirectional TVS and carries no polarity marking on its SMC (DO-214AB) package. It may be mounted in either orientation across the protected line and ground. However, the cathode end (if visible via subtle mold mark or lead geometry per JEDEC DO-214AB drawing) should be verified using datasheet mechanical diagrams or X-ray inspection for consistency in high-volume production.
What is the thermal resistance of the 3.0C12CA-M3, and how does it affect PCB layout?
The 3.0C12CA-M3 has a junction-to-mount thermal resistance (RthJM) of 4.0 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RthJA) of 90 °C/W when mounted on a standard FR4 PCB per JEDEC 51-2A. To maximize heat dissipation, use ≥25 mm² of 2 oz. copper connected to both terminals, avoid thermal isolation, and ensure solder coverage meets IPC-A-610 Class 2 standards. This enables full 3000 W surge capability without thermal derating.
How does the 3.0C12CA-M3 compare to MOV-based protection in terms of longevity and response time?
The 3.0C12CA-M3 offers superior longevity and speed versus metal-oxide varistors (MOVs): it exhibits no wear-out mechanism under repeated sub-threshold surges, responds in <1 ns (vs. ~25 ns for MOVs), and maintains stable VBR over >10⁵ surges. Unlike MOVs, it has no leakage drift or capacitance degradation, making it ideal for precision analog and high-speed digital signal lines where MOV parasitics would impair performance.
3.0C12CA-M3/H Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 151A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 3000W (3kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMC)
3.0C12CA-M3/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 3.0C12CA-M3/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 3.0C12CA-M3/H 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 3.0C12CA-M3/H reliable?
The price and inventory of 3.0C12CA-M3/H are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 3.0C12CA-M3/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 3.0C12CA-M3/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 3.0C12CA-M3/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 3.0C12CA-M3/H?
3.0C12CA-M3/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 3.0C12CA-M3/H 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 3.0C12CA-M3/H?
For technical support, including 3.0C12CA-M3/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 3.0C12CA-M3/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 3.0C12CA-M3/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 3.0C12CA-M3/H 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 3.0C12CA-M3/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 3.0C12CA-M3/H?
All 3.0C12CA-M3/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 3.0C12CA-M3/H, 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 3.0C12CA-M3/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 3.0C12CA-M3/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
3.0C12CA-M3/H 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
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
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 …

