Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA15CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- P4SMA15CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA15CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12.8VWM 21.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA15CAHM3/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 or power lines. It features a 12.8 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 14.3–15.8 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 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 automotive and industrial electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA15CAHM3/I datasheet, P4SMA15CAHM3/I pinout, P4SMA15CAHM3/I application, or P4SMA15CAHM3/I equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), clamping performance under surge conditions, and direct alternatives for ESD and lightning transient protection design.
Technical Context
The P4SMA15CAHM3/I operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping positive and negative transients without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction enables fast response (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for protecting sensitive inputs against IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 events.
Rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), it delivers 21.2 V clamping at 18.9 A while maintaining 12.8 V stand-off - ensuring reliable operation below system operating voltage. It is halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and qualified to AEC-Q101 for automotive-grade reliability with TJ max = 150 °C and MSL Level 1 handling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off) | 12.8 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before conduction; ensures no leakage during normal 12 V system operation. |
| VBR (Breakdown) | 14.3–15.8 V at 1 mA - Tight tolerance defines precise clamping onset; critical for predictable overvoltage protection timing. |
| VC (Clamping) | 21.2 V at 18.9 A - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during 400 W transient; limits stress on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 400 W (10/1000 µs) - Sustains high-energy surges common in automotive load dump or inductive switching. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - Junction-to-ambient thermal resistance; informs PCB copper pad sizing (0.2" × 0.2") for thermal management. |
| TJ max | 150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; supports operation in under-hood automotive environments. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, halogen-free, matte tin-plated terminals, MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow). Bidirectional construction means no cathode/anode marking; symmetrical two-terminal device.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals function identically; connects across protected line and ground (or between differential lines) for bidirectional clamping. |
| Case | Non-electrical mechanical interface | Plastic molding (UL 94 V-0 rated); provides insulation and mechanical stability; no thermal or electrical connection to die. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines (e.g., CAN, RS-485, sensor bridges) without polarity concerns. |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Withstands high-energy transients from inductive load switching (e.g., solenoid drivers, motor controllers) per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/3a. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive use including temperature cycling, humidity testing, and mechanical shock - required for Tier-1 supplier BOMs. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.44) | Minimizes overvoltage overshoot during surge events, reducing risk of latch-up or gate oxide damage in protected MOSFETs or microcontrollers. |
| MSL Level 1 | Allows standard SMT reflow without baking; compatible with high-volume automated assembly lines using J-STD-020 profile. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure or temperature sensors in engine control modules exposed to load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed between sensor output and ground to clamp ±20 V transients within <1 ns. Use Value: Prevents sensor signal corruption and ADC input damage while maintaining 12.8 V stand-off compatibility with 12 V supply rails. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input channels on programmable logic controllers subjected to relay coil flyback and EFT bursts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS connected across input terminal and common rail to suppress repetitive 400 W surges up to 0.01% duty cycle. Use Value: Enables robust field deployment in factory automation with no derating required up to 85 °C ambient. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Power Adapter ESD |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceiver data lines in outdoor telecom cabinets from lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping device installed differential-mode across A/B bus lines to limit common-mode transients. Use Value: Achieves 21.2 V clamping at 18.9 A while meeting IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 Ω) requirements. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary-level ESD protection on DC output lines of USB-C PD adapters after primary regulation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage TVS absorbing HBM ±15 kV discharges before reaching connector pins. Use Value: Complements internal IC protection with certified 400 W surge capability and halogen-free compliance for global market access. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15CA | Same VWM (12.8 V), VC (21.2 V), and package; lower PPPM (400 W vs. SMAJ's 400 W), but not AEC-Q101 qualified. | Commercial-grade only; unsuitable for automotive production where AEC-Q101 is mandated. | Select P4SMA15CAHM3/I when automotive qualification, halogen-free content, or MSL Level 1 reflow assurance is required. |
| 1.5SMC15CA | Higher power rating (1500 W), larger SMC (DO-214AB) package; same VWM/VC specs but 3× footprint area and higher RθJA (60 °C/W). | Used where surge energy exceeds 400 W; requires PCB redesign due to larger pad layout and thermal mass. | Choose P4SMA15CAHM3/I for space-constrained designs needing AEC-Q101 and standard SMA footprint compatibility. |
Compared with SMAJ15CA and 1.5SMC15CA, the P4SMA15CAHM3/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free construction, and industry-standard SMA packaging - enabling drop-in replacement in automotive and industrial designs without layout change or qualification revalidation.
Availability
P4SMA15CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, telecom line protection, and consumer power adapter ESD hardening requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for P4SMA15CAHM3/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 validation.
The P4SMA Series targets high-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom systems - engineered for fast response, tight parameter distribution, and robust surge handling in compact surface-mount form.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA15CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA15CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 21.2 V at 18.9 A peak pulse current (IPPM), measured with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value ensures protected circuits experience limited overvoltage during surge events. The P4SMA15CAHM3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range and is validated per IEC 61000-4-5 test conditions.
Is P4SMA15CAHM3/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4SMA15CAHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and manufactured with halogen-free, RoHS-compliant materials - making it approved for automotive use in engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces. Its 150 °C maximum junction temperature and MSL Level 1 rating further support under-hood and high-reliability deployment. The P4SMA15CAHM3/I meets all stress tests defined in the AEC-Q101 standard, including temperature cycling and highly accelerated life testing.
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in P4SMA15CAHM3/I?
The "HM3" suffix in P4SMA15CAHM3/I denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification, while "I" specifies 7500-unit tape-and-reel packaging on 13-inch reels. This distinguishes it from commercial-grade "E3" or "M3" variants and confirms compliance with automotive material requirements. The P4SMA15CAHM3/I is fully traceable to Vishay's qualified production lots and documented in their AEC-Q101 certification reports.
How does P4SMA15CAHM3/I differ from unidirectional P4SMA15A variants?
The P4SMA15CAHM3/I is bidirectional (denoted by "CA"), providing symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients - essential for AC-coupled or floating signal lines. In contrast, unidirectional P4SMA15A has a cathode band and conducts only in reverse bias. Both share identical VWM (12.8 V), VBR (14.3–15.8 V), and VC (21.2 V), but the P4SMA15CAHM3/I eliminates polarity orientation errors during placement and supports differential protection schemes.
What is the thermal resistance of P4SMA15CAHM3/I, and how does it affect PCB layout?
The P4SMA15CAHM3/I has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. This value guides minimum copper area requirements: reducing pad size increases thermal impedance and risks exceeding 150 °C junction temperature during repetitive surges. The P4SMA15CAHM3/I datasheet specifies this layout as the reference condition for all power ratings.
P4SMA15CAHM3/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:
- -
- 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:
- 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)
P4SMA15CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA15CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA15CAHM3/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 P4SMA15CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA15CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA15CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA15CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA15CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA15CAHM3/I?
P4SMA15CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA15CAHM3/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 P4SMA15CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA15CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA15CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA15CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA15CAHM3/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 P4SMA15CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA15CAHM3/I?
All P4SMA15CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA15CAHM3/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 P4SMA15CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA15CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA15CAHM3/I Tags

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