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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA15CA-E3/5A
- Part No.:
- P4SMA15CA-E3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA15CA-E3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12.8VWM 21.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,034
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Product details
Overview
P4SMA15CA-E3/5A 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 15 V standoff voltage (VWM), 17.1 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 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 interfaces in industrial and automotive electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA15CA-E3/5A datasheet, P4SMA15CA-E3/5A pinout, P4SMA15CA-E3/5A application, or P4SMA15CA-E3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.24), AEC-Q101 qualification eligibility (via HE3/HM3 variants), RoHS-compliant matte tin terminations, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads.
Technical Context
The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping transient overvoltages in both polarities without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and low leakage (<1.0 µA at 12.8 V), while its low incremental surge resistance enables rapid energy diversion during ESD or inductive switching events.
Thermally, it exhibits RθJA = 120 °C/W and RθJL = 30 °C/W, supporting continuous power dissipation of 3.3 W at 50 °C ambient when mounted on infinite heatsink. It meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 (peak reflow 260 °C) and is rated for operation from –65 °C to +150 °C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 12.8 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant conduction begins; defines safe operating margin below clamping threshold. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 14.3–15.8 V at 1.0 mA - Guaranteed avalanche initiation range; ensures predictable turn-on during transients. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 21.2 V at 18.9 A (10/1000 µs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; determines downstream component stress. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Maximum transient energy absorption capability under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform; validates robustness against IEC 61000-4-5 surges. |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 18.9 A - Corresponding surge current at VC; used to size PCB trace widths and verify layout survivability. |
| TJmax | +150 °C - Maximum allowable junction temperature; constrains thermal design in enclosed or high-ambient environments. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Standardized surface-mount outline with 5.28 mm length, 4.50 mm width, and 2.29 mm height; compatible with JEDEC MS-013AC footprint. |
Pinout & Package
SMA (DO-214AC) package: molded epoxy case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 flammability rating, and no polarity marking for bidirectional configuration.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche terminals | No functional distinction between terminals; either lead may connect to line or ground - enables flexible placement in AC-coupled or floating signal paths. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Validates protection against severe lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV line-to-ground) when properly laid out. |
| Clamping ratio VC/VBR ≤ 1.24 | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to downstream ICs - critical for 3.3 V or 5 V logic interfaces with tight absolute maximum ratings. |
| Low leakage <1.0 µA at VWM | Prevents signal distortion or battery drain in always-on sensor or communication circuits operating near VWM. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | HE3/HM3 variants available - supports automotive-grade reliability validation for body electronics and infotainment power rails. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Enables direct placement without baking; reduces manufacturing overhead in high-volume SMT lines. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Interface Protection | Automotive LIN Bus Transient Suppression |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation PLC modules exposed to relay coil flyback and motor drive noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across differential signal pair (e.g., 4–20 mA loop) to clamp ±2 kV EFT bursts without affecting DC accuracy. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity below 12.8 V standby while limiting transient overshoot to ≤21.2 V - preserving ADC input stage and isolator lifetime. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding LIN transceiver pins (e.g., TJA1020) in door module ECUs subjected to load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp on LIN bus line, positioned adjacent to connector to intercept transients before IC input. Use Value: Withstands 18.9 A surge current without degradation, enabling compliance with automotive EMC requirements while adding <0.5 mm² board area. |
| USB 2.0 Data Line ESD Protection | DC Power Rail Surge Suppression |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-level ESD protection on USB D+/D– lines downstream of integrated port protection, targeting system-level IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV contact discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS with sub-nanosecond turn-on, placed after series impedance to limit let-through energy to USB PHY. Use Value: Clamps to 21.2 V within <1 ns, preventing latch-up in USB controllers while maintaining <1 pF junction capacitance (per datasheet curve Fig. 4). |
Use Scenario: Input-stage surge suppression on 12 V auxiliary power rail feeding infotainment head units, exposed to alternator load dump spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device shunting transient energy to chassis ground, coordinated with upstream fuse and downstream LC filter. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W peak pulses without failure, reducing required bulk capacitance by 30% versus higher-VC alternatives - lowering BOM cost and footprint. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15CA | Same VWM (12.8 V) and VC (24.4 V), but higher PPPM = 600 W in larger SMB (DO-214AA) package; RθJA = 85 °C/W. | Preferred where higher surge margin is needed and PCB space allows 20% larger footprint; less suitable for ultra-dense layouts. | Select SMBJ15CA when system-level surge testing exceeds 400 W or thermal derating requires lower junction rise. |
| 1.5KE15CA | Through-hole TO-204AA (DO-41) package; identical VWM/VBR/VC specs but PPPM = 1500 W; not RoHS-compliant in standard version. | Used in legacy industrial power supplies requiring manual assembly or high-reliability through-hole mounting; incompatible with automated SMT. | Choose 1.5KE15CA only for retrofit designs with existing DO-41 footprints or where >1 kW surge handling is mandated. |
Compared with SMBJ15CA and 1.5KE15CA, the P4SMA15CA-E3/5A delivers optimal balance of SMT manufacturability, RoHS compliance, and 400 W surge capacity in minimal 5.3 × 4.5 mm area - making it the preferred choice for new automotive and industrial PCB designs prioritizing density and process compatibility.
Availability
P4SMA15CA-E3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, automotive LIN bus protection, USB 2.0 data line ESD suppression, and DC power rail surge suppression requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.
Supply support for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A 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 performance.
The P4SMA Series was developed for high-volume surface-mount transient suppression in cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications - delivering automotive-grade robustness (via AEC-Q101 variants) and industrial surge immunity in the industry-standard SMA package.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA15CA-E3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 21.2 V at 18.9 A peak pulse current with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured under standardized test conditions per Figure 1 in the Vishay datasheet 88367 and represents the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transient events. The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is P4SMA15CA-E3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A itself is RoHS-compliant and commercial-grade; however, Vishay offers AEC-Q101 qualified versions under ordering codes P4SMA15CAHE3_A and P4SMA15CAHM3_A (with "_A" revision). These variants undergo extended reliability testing per automotive standards and are recommended for body electronics, infotainment, and ADAS subsystems. The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A base part is commonly used in non-safety-critical automotive prototypes and industrial systems where qualification is not mandated.
What is the thermal resistance of P4SMA15CA-E3/5A, and how does it affect power handling?
The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W and junction-to-lead resistance (RθJL) of 30 °C/W. At 50 °C ambient, its continuous power dissipation is rated at 3.3 W on an infinite heatsink. In real-world PCB layouts with 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads per terminal, derating curves (Figure 2) show ~70% power capability at 100 °C ambient - meaning thermal design must account for this to avoid exceeding the +150 °C maximum junction temperature.
Does P4SMA15CA-E3/5A have polarity markings, and how is it installed?
No - the P4SMA15CA-E3/5A is a bidirectional TVS diode and carries no cathode band or polarity marking. Both terminals are functionally identical, allowing installation in either orientation across protected lines (e.g., between signal and ground, or across differential pairs). This simplifies layout and eliminates orientation errors during automated placement, unlike unidirectional variants such as P4SMA15A which require correct cathode alignment.
How does the P4SMA15CA-E3/5A compare to P4SMA15A in terms of electrical performance?
The P4SMA15CA-E3/5A and P4SMA15A share identical VWM (12.8 V), VBR (14.3–15.8 V), and VC (21.2 V) specifications, but differ fundamentally in conduction direction: P4SMA15CA-E3/5A clamps symmetrically in both polarities, while P4SMA15A is unidirectional and conducts only in reverse bias. This makes the CA variant essential for AC-coupled, floating, or bidirectional signal lines - whereas the A version suits DC power rails with defined polarity.
P4SMA15CA-E3/5A 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):
- 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:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA15CA-E3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A 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 P4SMA15CA-E3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA15CA-E3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A?
P4SMA15CA-E3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA15CA-E3/5A 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 P4SMA15CA-E3/5A?
For technical support, including P4SMA15CA-E3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA15CA-E3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA15CA-E3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA15CA-E3/5A 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 P4SMA15CA-E3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA15CA-E3/5A?
All P4SMA15CA-E3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA15CA-E3/5A, 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 P4SMA15CA-E3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA15CA-E3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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