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

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) in the P4SMA series, 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), and SMA (DO-214AC) package - used to protect automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O lines, and telecom data ports against ESD and inductive switching surges.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I datasheet, P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I pinout, P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I application, or P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, 16.7 V maximum clamping voltage at rated IPPM, low thermal resistance (RθJL = 30 °C/W), and halogen-free RoHS compliance per HM3 suffix.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS diode operates symmetrically in both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics forward and reverse. Its glass-passivated junction enables fast response (<1 ns) and stable clamping under repetitive 10/1000 µs surge events up to 400 W (derated above 25 °C).
Designed for surface-mount assembly on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, it meets MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow) and supports automotive-grade reliability via AEC-Q101 qualification - confirmed by HM3 suffix and revision code "A/I" indicating halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and qualified production lot.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 12 V - Maximum continuous operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe DC/AC working range. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 13.3–14.7 V at IT = 1 mA - Voltage at which device enters avalanche conduction; ensures precise overvoltage triggering. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 16.7 V at IPPM = 24.0 A - Maximum voltage seen by protected circuit during 400 W transient; limits stress on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 µs waveform) - Surge energy handling capacity; sufficient for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 Ω) testing. |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | 1.0 µA at VWM - Ultra-low leakage preserves signal integrity and battery life in always-on circuits. |
| TJ max | 150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; supports operation in under-hood automotive and industrial environments. |
| RθJL | 30 °C/W - Low junction-to-lead thermal resistance enables effective heat dissipation through PCB traces without heatsink. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional - no polarity marking; symmetrical anode/cathode terminals.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry (reverse bias) | One terminal of bidirectional avalanche junction; conducts during negative transients. |
| Cathode | Transient current entry (forward bias) | Second terminal of bidirectional avalanche junction; conducts during positive transients. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control modules and ADAS sensor interfaces. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (HM3) | Meets environmental compliance requirements for global OEM supply chains and end-of-life recycling. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands high-energy transients from relay coil de-energization and motor commutation without degradation. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Enables standard SMT reflow without baking; compatible with high-volume automated assembly lines. |
| Glass-passivated chip junction | Ensures long-term stability of clamping parameters and low leakage across temperature and lifetime. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC 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 clamping element placed directly at connector interface to shunt surge energy before reaching signal conditioning ICs. Use Value: Maintains signal fidelity under ±15 kV contact ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) and 100 V/500 ms load dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) due to 16.7 V VC and AEC-Q101 validation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input/output channels on programmable logic controllers exposed to inductive kickback from solenoids and relays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp TVS connected between field-side signal line and ground to limit transient voltage to <17 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up and permanent damage to microcontroller GPIOs and level translators using 24.0 A IPPM rating and sub-1 ns response time. |
| Telecom Data Line Protection | Consumer USB/UART Interface Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers and Ethernet PHYs in base stations and network switches from lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression device on differential pair lines, coordinated with common-mode chokes. Use Value: Delivers 400 W surge handling with matched bidirectional clamping to preserve differential signaling integrity during 10/1000 µs threats. |
Use Scenario: Adding robust ESD immunity to USB 2.0 D+/D− and UART TX/RX lines in smart home hubs and portable medical devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (typ. 200 pF at 0 V) TVS placed adjacent to connector to minimize signal distortion. Use Value: Limits ESD-induced voltage to ≤16.7 V while maintaining <1 µA leakage at 12 V, ensuring compatibility with 3.3 V/5 V logic thresholds. |
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); 600 W PPPM rating; RθJA = 100 °C/W vs. 120 °C/W for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I. | Better suited for higher-power industrial surge events; larger footprint requires PCB layout change. | Select SMBJ12CA when >400 W surge margin is required and board space allows DO-214AA. |
| 1.5KE12CA | Through-hole (DO-201AE); 1500 W PPPM; higher VBR tolerance (±5 % vs. ±5.6 %); no AEC-Q101 qualification. | Used in legacy power supply protection; not suitable for automotive or high-reliability SMT designs. | Choose 1.5KE12CA only for cost-sensitive, non-automotive, through-hole applications where AEC-Q101 is not mandated. |
Compared with SMBJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I offers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free compliance, compact SMA footprint, and verified 400 W surge performance - making it the preferred choice for new automotive and industrial SMT designs requiring traceable, qualified components.
Availability
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O protection, and telecom data line surge suppression requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for P4SMA12CAHM3_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 reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA series is engineered for robust transient suppression in space-constrained, high-reliability applications - particularly automotive, industrial, and telecom systems where AEC-Q101 qualification and consistent clamping performance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 16.7 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 24.0 A under a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per standard test conditions (TA = 25 °C, mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I maintains this clamping performance consistently due to its glass-passivated junction and bidirectional symmetry.
Is P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by the "HM3" suffix and revision code "A/I", indicating halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and automotive-grade production. It is specifically intended for use in automotive subsystems such as body control modules, ADAS sensors, and infotainment interfaces where reliability under temperature cycling, vibration, and surge stress is critical. The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I meets all applicable stress tests defined in AEC-Q101 Rev D.
What does the "CA" suffix mean in P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA12CAHM3_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 polarity marking and exhibits identical VBR, VC, and IPPM characteristics in either direction. This makes the P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I ideal for protecting AC-coupled lines, differential buses (e.g., CAN, RS-485), and other bidirectional signal paths.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 30 °C/W, enabling efficient heat transfer from the silicon die to the PCB copper traces via its SMA (DO-214AC) leads. This low RθJL supports reliable operation at elevated ambient temperatures and contributes to the device's ability to sustain repetitive surge events without thermal runaway. The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I leverages this thermal performance to maintain 400 W peak pulse power capability even in compact layouts.
How does the HM3 suffix affect the compliance status of P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
The HM3 suffix in P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I indicates halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction meeting JEDEC J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance requirements. It also confirms compliance with Vishay's material categorization standard (Doc. #99912). Unlike E3-suffix variants, HM3 ensures zero brominated flame retardants and reduced environmental impact - critical for automotive OEMs and industrial equipment manufacturers with strict substance restrictions. The P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I carries full documentation for these certifications.
P4SMA12CAHM3_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:
- 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/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA12CAHM3_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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA12CAHM3_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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA12CAHM3_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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA12CAHM3_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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I?
All P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA12CAHM3_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 P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA12CAHM3_A/I Tags

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