Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal and power lines. It features a 12 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 11.4–12.6 V at IT = 1.0 mA), 10.2 V maximum standoff voltage (VWM), and 16.7 V clamping voltage (VC) at 24.0 A peak pulse current (IPPM), with 400 W peak pulse power rating per 10/1000 µs waveform - used in automotive sensor protection, industrial I/O interfaces, and telecom line surge suppression.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I datasheet, P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I pinout, P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I application, or P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I equivalent, this AEC-Q101 qualified, RoHS-compliant bidirectional TVS offers verified clamping performance, MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, and validated thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W) for high-reliability embedded systems requiring transient immunity per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, delivering identical clamping behavior during positive and negative transients. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%), low incremental surge resistance, and fast response time (<1 ns) to ESD and lightning-induced surges.
The device is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) up to 91 V, derating to 300 W above that threshold, and supports repetitive surge duty cycles of 0.01%. Junction temperature range spans −65 °C to +150 °C, with thermal resistance RθJL = 30 °C/W enabling effective heat transfer to PCB copper pads.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 11.4 V / 12.6 V at IT = 1.0 mA - defines precise clamping onset threshold under standardized test conditions |
| VWM | 10.2 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 16.7 V at 24.0 A - clamped voltage during full 400 W transient, critical for downstream IC voltage margining |
| PPPM | 400 W (10/1000 µs) - peak surge energy handling capacity, derated above 91 V to 300 W |
| IPPM | 24.0 A - maximum non-repetitive surge current supported without degradation |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - junction-to-ambient thermal resistance on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, guides PCB thermal layout |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD robustness |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking - symmetrical anode/cathode terminals.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Connects to protected line; conducts during negative transients and provides reference for clamping |
| Cathode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Connects to protected line; conducts during positive transients and completes symmetrical clamping loop |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping symmetry | Identical VBR, VC, and IPPM in both directions - eliminates polarity concerns in AC-coupled or floating signal paths |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive electronics - enables use in ADAS sensors, body control modules, and infotainment without additional qualification effort |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Compatible with standard 260 °C lead-free reflow profiles - supports automated SMT assembly without moisture sensitivity handling |
| Glass-passivated junction | Stable leakage and breakdown characteristics over lifetime - reduces parameter drift in harsh industrial environments |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR) | 1.47 (16.7 V / 11.4 V min) - tight voltage margin between clamping and breakdown improves system-level surge margin |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial Digital I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus and analog sensor outputs (e.g., temperature, pressure) from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed across signal line and ground, absorbing transients before they reach MCU ADC or CAN/LIN transceivers. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity under 100 V/50 ms load dump events while staying within 16.7 V clamping limit - prevents latch-up or damage to 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs. |
Use Scenario: Shielding PLC digital input modules from field-wiring induced surges (IEC 61000-4-4/4-5) in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS on 24 V DC input lines, shunting fast transients to common ground before reaching optocoupler or Schmitt trigger inputs. Use Value: Withstands 400 W surges at 10/1000 µs while holding clamped voltage below 17 V - ensures reliable logic-level recognition and avoids false triggering. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer USB/Display Port ESD Guard |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485 transceivers and Ethernet PHYs against lightning-induced surges on outdoor cabling in base station backhaul links. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Differential-mode TVS pair (one per line) referenced to chassis ground, suppressing common-mode transients before front-end protection networks. Use Value: Symmetric 16.7 V clamping limits differential swing to safe levels for ±5 V RS-485 receivers - preserves data integrity during 1 kV surge tests. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary ESD protection on USB 2.0 D+/D− or DisplayPort AUX channels in laptops and docking stations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp placed after primary ESD array, catching residual transients missed by upstream protection. Use Value: Sub-100 pF junction capacitance (typ.) avoids signal integrity degradation at 480 Mbps USB speeds while providing 16.7 V clamping ceiling. |
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 | Higher package thermal mass (SMB/DO-214AA); 12 V VBR, 19.9 V VC @ 21.1 A; 600 W PPPM | Preferred where higher surge energy absorption is needed and board space allows larger footprint | Select SMBJ12CA when >400 W surge margin is required and PCB layout accommodates wider 4.6 mm body |
| 1.5KE12CA | Through-hole (DO-201AE); same VBR/VC but 1500 W PPPM; higher IPPM (123 A) | Suitable for legacy through-hole designs or high-energy industrial mains protection | Choose 1.5KE12CA only for prototyping or repair of existing through-hole assemblies - not for new SMT designs |
Compared with SMBJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, the P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I delivers optimal balance of compact SMA footprint, AEC-Q101 qualification, and 400 W surge capability - making it the preferred choice for space-constrained automotive and industrial SMT applications where reliability and reflow compatibility are mandatory.
Availability
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line protection requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 compliance, and consistent surge performance across production batches.
Supply support for P4SMA12CAHE3_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 protection devices with emphasis on high-reliability, automotive-qualified components.
The P4SMA Series targets cost-sensitive yet robust transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom applications - engineered for automated SMT assembly, AEC-Q101 validation, and stable parametric performance across temperature extremes.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance of P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I?
The P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I has a breakdown voltage VBR specified from 11.4 V to 12.6 V at IT = 1.0 mA, representing a ±5% tolerance band. This tight tolerance ensures predictable clamping onset across production units and simplifies system-level surge margin calculations without requiring design guard-banding beyond datasheet limits.
Is P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and carries the "HE3" automotive suffix, confirming validation for temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD robustness per automotive requirements. It is widely deployed in engine control units, ADAS camera modules, and body electronics where transient immunity must meet ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2 standards.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression for both positive and negative voltage excursions. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA12A), the CA version has no cathode marking and functions identically regardless of polarity applied across its terminals.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I under surge conditions?
The P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I clamps to a maximum of 16.7 V when subjected to its rated 24.0 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at the device terminals and represents the upper voltage bound seen by downstream circuitry during worst-case transient events - critical for ensuring compatibility with 3.3 V, 5 V, or 12 V logic interfaces.
Does P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I require special PCB layout considerations?
Yes - to achieve rated 400 W surge performance, the P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I must be mounted on minimum recommended copper pads: 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) per terminal. Smaller pads increase thermal impedance and reduce actual surge capability; routing traces directly to large ground/power planes further enhances heat dissipation and maintains clamping consistency during repetitive transients.
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- P4SMA, 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):
- 24A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA12CAHE3_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 P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA12CAHE3_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 P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I?
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA12CAHE3_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 P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA12CAHE3_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 P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I?
All P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA12CAHE3_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 P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA12CAHE3_A/I Tags

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