Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA18A-M3/61
- Part No.:
- P4SMA18A-M3/61
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA18A-M3/61.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA18A-M3/61 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 15.3 V standoff voltage (VWM), 17.1–18.9 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 25.2 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 15.9 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 P4SMA18A-M3/61 datasheet, P4SMA18A-M3/61 pinout, P4SMA18A-M3/61 application, or P4SMA18A-M3/61 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, thermal derating behavior, clamping performance under surge conditions, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant sourcing details aligned with J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 handling.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS diode operates by avalanche breakdown to limit transient voltages above its VWM threshold, with fast response time (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance enabling effective suppression of ESD, lightning-induced surges, and inductive switching spikes. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage and long-term reliability under repetitive stress.
The device is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) at TA = 25 °C, derated linearly above 25 °C per Fig. 2, and supports 40 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine). Junction temperature range spans –65 °C to +150 °C, and thermal resistance is 120 °C/W (junction-to-ambient) on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Standoff Voltage) | 15.3 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe operating margin below breakdown. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures predictable turn-on during transients. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 25.2 V at 15.9 A (10/1000 µs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; determines downstream component stress. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Sustained transient energy absorption capability; validated per IEC 61000-4-5 surge test conditions. |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 15.9 A - Maximum surge current handled without degradation; derived from VC and PPPM (P = V × I). |
| TJmax | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; sets PCB layout and thermal pad design requirements for sustained operation. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - Thermal resistance from junction to ambient on standard footprint; guides heatsinking and airflow planning. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow), matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Cathode indicated by band; anode is unmarked end.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient current sink | Connected to protected line; conducts surge current to ground when VLINE exceeds VBR. |
| Anode (unbanded end) | Reference node | Typically tied to system ground or lower-potential rail; completes clamping path during overvoltage events. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Enables robust protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV line-earth) without failure. |
| 25.2 V clamping at 15.9 A | Limits voltage stress on 16–24 V logic and power ICs, preserving functional integrity during transients. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable leakage (<1 µA at VWM) and repeatable VBR over temperature and lifetime. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak reflow | Supports standard lead-free SMT assembly without pre-baking or special handling. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant (M3 suffix) | Meets environmental compliance requirements for automotive and industrial end equipment. |
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 ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamping element placed between signal line and chassis ground to shunt transient energy before it reaches the IC. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity under 12 V/24 V automotive supply transients while meeting AEC-Q101 qualification (via P/NHM3 variant). |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback and motor drive noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp TVS connected across input terminals to clamp induced spikes before they propagate into optocoupler or microcontroller input stages. Use Value: Prevents false triggering and latch-up in 24 V DC input circuits with <25.2 V clamping ceiling and 400 W surge capacity. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Output | Telecom DC Power Rail Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression on 12–19 V SMPS outputs feeding laptops, monitors, or set-top boxes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting unidirectional suppressor placed between output rail and ground to clamp regulator fault or transformer ringing. Use Value: Limits output overshoot to ≤25.2 V during startup or short-circuit recovery, protecting downstream DC-DC converters and LDOs. |
Use Scenario: Protecting PoE-powered Ethernet switches and base station DC distribution rails from lightning-induced surges on -48 V telecom supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-energy clamping device installed at board entry point to divert bulk surge current away from sensitive PMICs and PHYs. Use Value: Handles 400 W transient bursts while maintaining 15.3 V nominal rail stability and supporting long-term reliability in harsh environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18A (Bourns) | Same VWM (15.3 V), higher PPPM (600 W), larger SMB (DO-214AA) package (4.58 × 3.94 mm vs. SMA's 4.58 × 2.92 mm). | Requires larger PCB footprint; better suited for higher-energy surge zones where space permits. | Select SMBJ18A when >400 W surge margin is required and board area allows larger package. |
| 1.5SMC18A (ON Semiconductor) | Identical VWM/VBR/VC specs, same SMA package, but rated at 1.5 kW PPPM (10/1000 µs) - measured at different test condition (larger copper area: 0.5" × 0.5"). | Higher published PPPM reflects test setup difference, not intrinsic superiority; actual board-level performance aligns closely with P4SMA18A-M3/61 under identical layout. | Choose 1.5SMC18A only if legacy design uses that family or distributor stock favors it; electrical behavior is functionally interchangeable. |
Compared with SMBJ18A and 1.5SMC18A, P4SMA18A-M3/61 offers optimal balance of compact SMA footprint, verified 400 W surge handling on standard pads, halogen-free compliance, and AEC-Q101 availability - making it preferred for space-constrained industrial and automotive modules where consistent thermal performance and regulatory alignment are critical.
Availability
P4SMA18A-M3/61 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, consumer power adapter outputs, and telecom DC power rail protection requiring stable component supply, halogen-free compliance, and MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility.
Supply support for P4SMA18A-M3/61 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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA Series targets cost-sensitive, high-volume transient protection needs in automotive, industrial, and consumer systems - delivering standardized TVS performance in compact surface-mount packages with rigorous qualification (AEC-Q101, J-STD-020) and environmental compliance.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA18A-M3/61 at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA18A-M3/61 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V at 15.9 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs waveform), measured per standard test conditions on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events and is confirmed in the Vishay datasheet revision 09-Jan-2024, page 2.
Is P4SMA18A-M3/61 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, P4SMA18A-M3/61 is halogen-free and RoHS-compliant, and the P4SMA18A-HM3 variant is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive use. While the M3 suffix itself denotes halogen-free commercial grade, the underlying P4SMA18A die meets AEC-Q101 when ordered with HM3 suffix (e.g., P4SMA18A-HM3_A/H), confirming suitability for under-hood and body electronics requiring automotive-grade reliability.
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) of P4SMA18A-M3/61, and how does it relate to system operating voltage?
The standoff voltage VWM of P4SMA18A-M3/61 is 15.3 V - the maximum DC or continuous reverse voltage the device blocks without entering avalanche conduction. For reliable operation, system nominal voltage (e.g., 12 V or 24 V rails) must remain below VWM, with margin for ripple and tolerance; thus P4SMA18A-M3/61 is ideal for 12 V systems with up to ~15 V max operating swing.
Does P4SMA18A-M3/61 have a bidirectional version, and how does it differ?
Yes, the bidirectional variant is P4SMA18CA-M3/61. Unlike P4SMA18A-M3/61 (unidirectional, cathode-banded), P4SMA18CA-M3/61 has no polarity marking and clamps symmetrically in both directions, with VWM = 15.3 V and VBR = 17.1–18.9 V in either polarity. It is used where AC signals or floating references require protection without polarity constraints.
What is the thermal resistance and maximum junction temperature of P4SMA18A-M3/61?
P4SMA18A-M3/61 has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, and a maximum junction temperature (TJmax) of +150 °C. These values govern power dissipation limits and PCB thermal design - for example, at 3.3 W steady-state power, ambient must stay below +115 °C to avoid exceeding TJmax.
P4SMA18A-M3/61 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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15.3V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 25.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 15.9A
- 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)
P4SMA18A-M3/61 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA18A-M3/61 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA18A-M3/61 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 P4SMA18A-M3/61 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA18A-M3/61 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA18A-M3/61 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA18A-M3/61?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA18A-M3/61 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA18A-M3/61?
P4SMA18A-M3/61 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA18A-M3/61 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 P4SMA18A-M3/61?
For technical support, including P4SMA18A-M3/61 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA18A-M3/61 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA18A-M3/61 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA18A-M3/61 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 P4SMA18A-M3/61 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA18A-M3/61?
All P4SMA18A-M3/61 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA18A-M3/61, 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 P4SMA18A-M3/61 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA18A-M3/61:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA18A-M3/61 Tags

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