Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA15AHM3/I
- Part No.:
- P4SMA15AHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA15AHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12.8VWM 21.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA15AHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping transient overvoltages on power and signal lines. It features a 15 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 14.3–15.8 V at 1 mA), 12.8 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 21.2 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 18.9 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in industrial and automotive electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA15AHM3/I datasheet, P4SMA15AHM3/I pinout, P4SMA15AHM3/I application, or P4SMA15AHM3/I equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction (HM3 suffix), unidirectional polarity with cathode band marking, and thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W) under standard PCB pad layout.
Technical Context
The P4SMA15AHM3/I operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, triggering when reverse voltage exceeds its 14.3–15.8 V breakdown range, clamping transients to ≤21.2 V at 18.9 A. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response time (<1 ns), while low incremental surge resistance enables effective energy diversion during ESD or inductive switching events.
Rated for 40 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine), it supports robust protection in DC power rails and low-speed signal paths. The device is qualified to AEC-Q101, rated for -65 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, and meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 with 260 °C reflow peak, confirming suitability for automotive-grade automated SMT assembly.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 14.3 V / 15.8 V at 1 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for reliable overvoltage detection |
| VWM | 12.8 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage rises above 1 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 21.2 V at 18.9 A - clamped voltage during 10/1000 µs transient, limiting stress on downstream components |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak pulse power handling capability under standardized surge waveform |
| IFSM | 40 A - single half-sine surge current rating (8.3 ms), supporting high-energy inductive load switching |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature, enabling operation in under-hood automotive environments |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - thermal resistance from junction to ambient, requiring minimum 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads per terminal |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile plastic case with matte tin-plated leads; cathode indicated by a band on the body; compliant with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal | Connected to lower-potential side of protected line; conducts during forward surge (e.g., reverse-biased supply rail fault) |
| Cathode | Avalanche clamping terminal | Marked with band; connected to higher-potential side; conducts in reverse bias when VRM > VWM, diverting surge current to ground |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (HM3) | Meets environmental compliance requirements for Tier-1 automotive supply chains and industrial green initiatives |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Provides robust protection against ISO 7637-2 Load Dump and IEC 61000-4-5 surge events |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Enables compatibility with standard lead-free reflow profiles without preconditioning or baking |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure/temperature sensors in engine bay modules exposed to load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping transient spikes on 5 V or 12 V sensor supply and signal outputs. Use Value: Limits voltage excursion to ≤21.2 V during 10/1000 µs surges, preventing latch-up or damage to precision ADC front-ends. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input channels of programmable logic controllers interfacing with 24 V DC field devices subject to inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff clamp on optocoupler input side, absorbing flyback energy from solenoid/relay coils. Use Value: Withstands 40 A surge current (8.3 ms), eliminating need for external snubbers and reducing BOM count. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Output | Telecom Line Interface |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression in AC/DC adapters powering USB-C PD or IoT gateways. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage transient suppressor on regulated 5 V/9 V/12 V outputs before connector interface. Use Value: Fast <1 ns response and 12.8 V VWM ensure no interference with normal regulation while blocking ESD and surge. |
Use Scenario: Protection of RS-485 transceiver pins in base station backhaul equipment exposed to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamp on driver/receiver signal lines referenced to local ground plane. Use Value: 21.2 V clamping voltage preserves signal integrity across 12 V common-mode range while meeting ITU-T K.20 immunity requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15A-E3/5A | Same VBR range (14.3–15.8 V), identical SMA package, but commercial-grade (not AEC-Q101 qualified); RθJA = 120 °C/W same | Lacks automotive qualification; suitable for industrial/commercial power supplies where AEC-Q101 is not mandated | Select SMAJ15A-E3/5A for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs requiring identical electrical performance and footprint |
| 1.5SMC15A | Higher package thermal mass (DO-214AB, larger than SMA); same VBR/VC, but 1500 W PPPM; RθJA ≈ 40 °C/W | Requires larger PCB area; suited for high-energy surges where 400 W is insufficient | Choose 1.5SMC15A only when system-level surge testing exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 and board space allows DO-214AB |
Compared with SMAJ15A-E3/5A, P4SMA15AHM3/I adds AEC-Q101 qualification and halogen-free compliance for automotive use; versus 1.5SMC15A, it trades higher surge capacity for smaller footprint and lower thermal resistance in compact layouts - making P4SMA15AHM3/I optimal for space-constrained, automotive-grade 12 V rail protection.
Availability
P4SMA15AHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC inputs, consumer power adapter outputs, and telecom line interfaces requiring stable component supply with full traceability and lifecycle management.
Supply support for P4SMA15AHM3/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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA Series targets high-volume, space-constrained transient protection in automotive, industrial, and consumer systems - engineered for automated SMT assembly, AEC-Q101 compliance, and consistent clamping performance across temperature and life cycle.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance of P4SMA15AHM3/I?
The P4SMA15AHM3/I has a specified breakdown voltage range of 14.3 V to 15.8 V at 1 mA test current, representing ±5% tolerance around the nominal 15 V rating. This tight VBR window ensures predictable clamping onset across production lots and temperature extremes, critical for protecting sensitive 12 V automotive electronics without premature conduction.
Is P4SMA15AHM3/I suitable for bidirectional transient protection?
No, P4SMA15AHM3/I is a unidirectional TVS diode, identified by the "A" suffix and cathode band marking. For bidirectional protection, Vishay offers the P4SMA15CA variant. Using P4SMA15AHM3/I in AC-coupled or floating signal paths may result in forward conduction during negative transients, potentially damaging the device or circuit.
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in P4SMA15AHM3/I?
The "HM3" suffix in P4SMA15AHM3/I denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification. It confirms compliance with automotive reliability standards, absence of brominated flame retardants, and suitability for lead-free reflow (MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak), distinguishing it from commercial-grade "E3" or "M3" variants.
How is thermal performance affected by PCB layout for P4SMA15AHM3/I?
P4SMA15AHM3/I achieves its rated RθJA of 120 °C/W only when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. Reducing pad size increases junction temperature rise during surge events, risking thermal runaway. For sustained power dissipation, additional copper pour or thermal vias are recommended to maintain TJ ≤ 150 °C.
Does P4SMA15AHM3/I meet any international surge immunity standards?
While P4SMA15AHM3/I itself is not certified to a specific immunity standard, its 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 21.2 V clamping voltage, and 40 A surge current rating enable system-level compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 (Level 3, 2 kV line-earth), ISO 7637-2 (Pulse 1/2a/5a), and AEC-Q100 stress tests when properly integrated into the PCB layout with appropriate trace inductance and grounding.
P4SMA15AHM3/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:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12.8V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 14.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 21.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 18.9A
- 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)
P4SMA15AHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA15AHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA15AHM3/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 P4SMA15AHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA15AHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA15AHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA15AHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA15AHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA15AHM3/I?
P4SMA15AHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA15AHM3/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 P4SMA15AHM3/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA15AHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA15AHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA15AHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA15AHM3/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 P4SMA15AHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA15AHM3/I?
All P4SMA15AHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA15AHM3/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 P4SMA15AHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA15AHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA15AHM3/I Tags

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