Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H
- Part No.:
- P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount TRANSZORB® transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal and power lines. It features a 12 V standoff voltage (VWM), 13.3 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), <1 µA reverse leakage at VWM, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H datasheet, P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H pinout, P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H application, or P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H equivalent, this device is selected for robust ESD and surge protection in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O lines, and telecom signal conditioning where low clamping voltage (VC = 19.9 V at IPPM), fast response (<1 ns), and halogen-free RoHS compliance are required.
Technical Context
The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping both positive and negative transients above its breakdown threshold. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low incremental surge resistance, enabling consistent clamping performance under repetitive 10/1000 µs surges up to 400 W (derated to 300 W above 91 V).
Designed for surface-mount assembly on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, it meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 with 260 °C peak reflow, and supports automotive-grade reliability via AEC-Q101 qualification (HM3 suffix). The device exhibits a temperature coefficient of VBR at +0.078 %/°C and operates across -65 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before clamping begins; defines safe operating margin below breakdown. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 13.3–14.7 V at IT = 1 mA - Avalanche conduction initiates within this range; ensures predictable turn-on during transients. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 19.9 V at IPPM = 20.1 A - Maximum voltage seen by protected circuit during 400 W 10/1000 µs surge; critical for IC survivability. |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | <1 µA at 12 V - Negligible standby current; avoids signal distortion or power loss in high-impedance lines. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 µs) - Sustains high-energy transients without failure; derated to 300 W above 91 V per spec. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and thermally constrained PCB layouts. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTOL, TC, and ESD; HM3 suffix denotes qualification. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002. Dimensions: 4.93 mm × 3.99 mm × 2.29 mm (L × W × H); cathode band absent (bidirectional).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Provides symmetrical conduction for both polarities; connects to protected line or ground reference depending on layout. |
| Cathode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Electrically identical to Anode in bidirectional configuration; no polarity marking on device body. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands high-energy lightning-induced surges and inductive switching spikes without degradation. |
| Low clamping voltage (VC = 19.9 V) | Protects 12 V rail and 3.3/5 V logic interfaces by limiting transient overvoltage below IC absolute maximum ratings. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control modules, ADAS sensors, and infotainment I/O protection. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak reflow | Compatible with standard lead-free SMT assembly processes without moisture sensitivity concerns. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures long-term stability of VBR and leakage performance across temperature and lifetime stress conditions. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface Protection | Industrial PLC Digital I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ESD in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamp placed between signal line and chassis ground to shunt transients before they reach sensitive analog front-ends or communication ICs. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to microcontrollers and transceivers during ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a/5a events while maintaining signal integrity at 12 V nominal supply. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input channels on programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced surges and relay contact bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp TVS connected across input terminals to limit transient voltage to ≤20 V, ensuring compatibility with 24 V-rated optocoupler inputs. Use Value: Eliminates need for external series resistors or RC filters while meeting IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT) and IEC 61000-4-5 (surge) immunity requirements. |
| Telecom Line Card Surge Suppression | Consumer USB/UART Signal Line Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485/RS-232 data lines on telecom base station line cards from induced lightning surges on outdoor cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS mounted directly at connector entry point to clamp common-mode transients before reaching transceiver ICs. Use Value: Achieves >4 kV (IEC 61000-4-5) surge withstand capability with minimal board space and no signal attenuation at 10 Mbps rates. |
Use Scenario: Adding ESD robustness to USB 2.0 D+/D− or UART TX/RX traces in smart home hubs and portable medical devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS (CJ ≈ 100 pF at 0 V) placed inline to absorb ±15 kV HBM ESD pulses without distorting signal edges. Use Value: Passes IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 (±15 kV air/±8 kV contact) without requiring additional filtering or layout compromises. |
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 resistance (RθJA = 100 °C/W vs. 120 °C/W), 600 W PPPM rating, same VWM/VBR range. | Better suited for higher-power surge events but requires larger SMB (DO-214AA) footprint; less compact than SMA. | Select SMBJ12CA when system-level surge testing exceeds 400 W or when board layout allows larger pad area. |
| 1.5KE12CA | Through-hole DO-15 package, 1500 W PPPM, higher VC (20.1 V), same bidirectional function and VWM. | Used in legacy or high-reliability industrial power supplies where through-hole mounting and higher energy handling are prioritized. | Choose 1.5KE12CA only for through-hole designs or when 1.5 kW single-pulse capability is mandatory; not SMT-compatible. |
Compared with SMBJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H offers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 qualification, compact SMA footprint, and verified 400 W surge handling-making it the preferred choice for space-constrained automotive and industrial SMT designs requiring production-grade reliability.
Availability
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC I/O cards, and telecom line card designs requiring stable component supply, halogen-free compliance, and AEC-Q101 validation.
Supply support for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H 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 reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA Series is engineered for high-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom systems-delivering consistent clamping performance, AEC-Q101 qualification, and surface-mount scalability across 6.8 V to 540 V standoff voltages.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at its peak pulse current (IPPM) of 20.1 A, measured under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within their absolute maximum voltage ratings during surge events. The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H achieves this low VC through optimized avalanche junction design and low dynamic impedance.
Is the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H is AEC-Q101 qualified (denoted by the HM3 suffix) and specifically designed for automotive use, including engine control units, ADAS sensor interfaces, and infotainment system I/O protection. Its construction meets stringent automotive reliability requirements, and the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H operates across the full -65 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range required for under-hood deployment.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H specifies a bidirectional configuration, meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression for both positive and negative voltage excursions. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA12A), the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H has no polarity marking and functions identically in either orientation-ideal for AC-coupled or differential signal lines such as RS-485 or CAN bus.
How does the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H compare to unidirectional TVS diodes in terms of circuit implementation?
The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H eliminates the need to observe polarity during placement, simplifying PCB layout and assembly for bidirectional signal paths. While unidirectional TVS diodes require correct anode/cathode orientation relative to DC bias, the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H can be placed without regard to direction-reducing manufacturing errors and supporting designs where signal polarity may vary or be undefined, such as in telecom line protection.
What is the thermal resistance and power derating behavior of the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H?
The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads. Its peak pulse power rating derates linearly above 25 °C ambient, dropping to ~250 W at 85 °C and ~150 W at 125 °C per Figure 2 in the datasheet. Continuous power dissipation (PD) remains 3.3 W, and the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H must be applied within its specified TJ range of -65 °C to +150 °C.
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H 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:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H?
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA12CAHM3_A/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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H?
For technical support, including P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA12CAHM3_A/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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H?
All P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA12CAHM3_A/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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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