Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P4SMA12CA
- Part No.:
- P4SMA12CA
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA12CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,658
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Product details
Overview
P4SMA12CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 12V working stand-off voltage (VWM), 11.4–12.6V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1mA, 16.7V clamping voltage (VC) at 25A peak pulse current, and 400W peak pulse power rating under 10/1000μs waveform - deployed in switching mode power supplies and on-board DC/DC converters.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA12CA datasheet, P4SMA12CA pinout, P4SMA12CA application, or P4SMA12CA equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, DO-214AC (SMA) package compatibility, low leakage (<1μA at VWM), ISO 7637-2 compliance, and thermal stability up to +150°C junction temperature.
Technical Context
The P4SMA12CA is a unidirectional/bidirectional TVS diode with glass-passivated junction and fast response time (<1.0ps). Its bipolar configuration (CA suffix) enables symmetrical clamping in both polarities, supporting surge suppression in AC-coupled or floating interfaces without polarity dependency.
It operates across -55°C to +150°C junction temperature range, meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and complies with RoHS and halogen-free standards per IEC 61249-2-21. The device uses a single-die DO-214AC (SMA) package with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 10.2 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates |
| VBR min/max | 11.4 V / 12.6 V at 1 mA - guaranteed breakdown threshold ensures predictable turn-on during transients |
| VC @ IPPM | 16.7 V at 25 A (10/1000μs) - limits downstream voltage stress to safe levels during ESD/EFT events |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak pulse power handling capacity defines survivability against automotive load dump or ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/2b |
| IR @ VWM | <1 μA - ultra-low leakage preserves efficiency in high-impedance bias networks and battery-powered circuits |
| TJ max | +150 °C - enables reliable operation in thermally constrained environments like enclosed power adapters |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-214AC (SMA), surface-mount, bi-directional configuration with cathode band omitted (symmetrical terminals).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (A) | Transient current entry point in negative polarity events | Accepts reverse surge current during negative-going transients; forms symmetrical clamping path with Cathode |
| Cathode (K) | Transient current entry point in positive polarity events | Accepts forward surge current during positive-going transients; completes bidirectional clamping loop with Anode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals or floating buses without external polarity management |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR and low IR over lifetime and humidity exposure per J-STD-020 Level 1 moisture rating |
| Fast response time <1.0 ps | Clamps sub-nanosecond ESD events before sensitive IC inputs are damaged |
| ISO 7637-2 compliance | Validated for automotive electrical system transients including Pulse 1 (inductive load disconnect), 2a/2b (battery jump-start), and 3a/3b (switching noise) |
Applications
| Switching Mode Power Supply (SMPS) | On-Board DC/DC Converter |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of primary-side gate drivers and secondary-side feedback paths against MOSFET switching spikes and cross-talk. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transient voltage suppressor placed across input/output rails and control signal lines. Use Value: Limits voltage excursions to ≤16.7V during 400W surges, preventing latch-up or oxide breakdown in PWM controllers and optocouplers. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding isolated 3.3V/5V logic rails in automotive body control modules and industrial PLCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed at DC/DC converter input and output to absorb load dump and back-EMF energy. Use Value: Maintains rail integrity during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 2b (12V battery jump-start) with no degradation after repeated 25A pulses. |
| Lighting Application | Adapter Input Stage |
Use Scenario: Overvoltage protection for LED driver ICs and current-sense resistors in smart streetlight ballasts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamping device connected between HV DC bus and ground to shunt lightning-induced surges. Use Value: Withstands 400W peak pulses while adding <1μA leakage, avoiding false triggering in precision current regulation loops. | Use Scenario: Input-stage surge suppression in wall-mounted AC/DC adapters for consumer electronics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense against line transients entering via rectified AC input. Use Value: Fast <1.0ps response and DO-214AC footprint enable compact layout adjacent to bridge rectifier without compromising creepage/clearance. |
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 (Bourns) | Same DO-214AA package; 600W PPPM rating; slightly higher VC = 19.9V at 22.5A | Better suited for higher-energy transients but requires larger board area due to SMB package | Select when higher surge margin is required and PCB space allows SMB footprint |
| 1.5KE12CA (ON Semiconductor) | Through-hole DO-15 package; 1500W PPPM; VC = 19.2V at 78.1A; slower thermal response | Designed for legacy through-hole assembly and higher-power industrial systems | Choose only if through-hole mounting is mandatory and 400W rating is insufficient |
Compared with SMBJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, the P4SMA12CA offers optimal balance of 400W surge capability, compact DO-214AC footprint, and ultra-low leakage - making it ideal for space-constrained, surface-mount DC/DC and adapter designs requiring repeatable clamping at ≤16.7V.
Availability
P4SMA12CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for switching mode power supplies, on-board DC/DC converters, and lighting applications requiring stable component supply with full traceability and lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4SMA12CA 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, and rectifiers with global distribution and AEC-Q200 qualified product lines.
The P4SMA12CA belongs to TSC's P4SMA series of surface-mount TVS diodes engineered for automotive-grade transient immunity, industrial power conversion, and consumer adapter protection - emphasizing reliability, low leakage, and standardized DO-214AC packaging.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4SMA12CA under standard test conditions?
The P4SMA12CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 16.7 V when subjected to a 10/1000 μs peak pulse current of 25 A. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and guarantees that downstream circuitry remains protected below this threshold during transient events, directly supporting design margin calculations for 12V rail systems.
Is the P4SMA12CA unidirectional or bidirectional, and how is polarity indicated?
The P4SMA12CA is a bidirectional TVS diode, as confirmed by the "CA" suffix and explicit documentation stating "electrical characteristics apply in both directions." Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA12A), it has no cathode band marking and functions identically for positive and negative transients - eliminating need for orientation-aware placement.
Does the P4SMA12CA meet automotive surge immunity standards?
Yes, the P4SMA12CA meets ISO 7637-2 requirements for Pulses 1, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b - validated per manufacturer testing. Its 400W peak pulse power rating, 16.7V clamping, and -55°C to +150°C operating range make it suitable for automotive body electronics, infotainment power rails, and ADAS module input protection where compliance with vehicle-level EMC is mandatory.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current for the P4SMA12CA at its working voltage?
The P4SMA12CA exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (IR) of less than 1 μA when biased at its working stand-off voltage (VWM) of 10.2 V. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal power loss in always-on circuits and avoids interference with high-impedance sensing nodes - critical in battery-backed systems and precision analog front-ends.
Can the P4SMA12CA be used in place of the P4SMA12A in a new design?
No - the P4SMA12CA and P4SMA12A are not interchangeable without circuit review. P4SMA12A is unidirectional (cathode-banded, forward conduction path), while P4SMA12CA is bidirectional (no polarity marking, symmetrical clamping). Substituting one for the other may cause unintended conduction or failure to clamp in one polarity, especially in DC-coupled signal paths.
P4SMA12CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- P4SMA
- 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):
- 25A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA12CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA12CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA12CA 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 P4SMA12CA reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA12CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA12CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA12CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA12CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA12CA?
P4SMA12CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA12CA 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 P4SMA12CA?
For technical support, including P4SMA12CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA12CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA12CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA12CA 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 P4SMA12CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA12CA?
All P4SMA12CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA12CA, 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 P4SMA12CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA12CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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