Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P4SMA18CAH
- Part No.:
- P4SMA18CAH
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA18CAH.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.5VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,678
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Product details
Overview
P4SMA18CAH from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-214AC (SMA) package, rated for 400W peak pulse power, 17.1V to 18.9V breakdown voltage (VBR), 15.3V working stand-off voltage (VWM), and clamps to ≤25.5V at 16.5A peak impulse current under 10/1000μs waveform. It is AEC-Q101 qualified and used for automotive-grade surge protection in DC/DC converters.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA18CAH datasheet, P4SMA18CAH pinout, P4SMA18CAH application, or P4SMA18CAH equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/2b/3a/3b compliance, <1μA reverse leakage at VWM, and glass-passivated junction reliability in harsh environments.
Technical Context
The P4SMA18CAH implements a single-die, bidirectional avalanche junction structure with glass passivation for stable breakdown behavior and low leakage. Its fast response time (<1.0ps) enables effective suppression of ESD and load-dump transients before downstream circuitry is damaged.
Designed for automotive electronics, it meets ISO 7637-2 test pulses across all defined waveforms (Pulse 1, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b) and operates over –55°C to +150°C junction temperature range, supporting under-hood and infotainment system deployment.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1V / 18.9V - Ensures reliable conduction onset above normal operating voltage while avoiding false triggering |
| VWM | 15.3V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage without significant leakage; sets system operating margin |
| IPPM | 16.5A @ 10/1000μs - Peak surge current handling capacity for standardized automotive transients |
| VC@IPPM | ≤25.5V - Clamped voltage during worst-case surge; determines protected circuit's maximum stress level |
| PPPM | 400W - Peak pulse power rating defining transient energy absorption capability |
| IR@VWM | <1μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage preserves efficiency and signal integrity in high-impedance circuits |
| TJ max | +150°C - Enables placement near heat sources (e.g., power MOSFETs, inductors) without derating |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-214AC (SMA), surface-mount, bi-directional configuration with cathode band omitted (no polarity marking required).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche junction terminals | Either terminal accepts reverse or forward surge; no orientation dependency on PCB |
| Case (body) | Non-connected mechanical interface | DO-214AC molded body provides UL 94V-0 flammability rating and moisture resistance (J-STD-020 Level 1) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive use including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock per stress test requirements |
| Glass passivated junction | Stable VBR tolerance and low leakage over lifetime, even under thermal/humidity stress |
| ISO 7637-2 compliance | Guaranteed suppression of all five standard automotive transient waveforms without failure or parameter shift |
| Fast response time | <1.0ps enables clamping before ESD or switching transients propagate into sensitive ICs |
| Matte tin-plated leads | Ensures reliable solder wetting and intermetallic formation per J-STD-002, supporting automated reflow |
Applications
| Automotive Infotainment Power Rails | On-Board DC/DC Converter Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting USB-C PD and display power inputs in head units against load dump and jump-start surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping device placed at input filter stage to shunt transients before LDOs or buck controllers. Use Value: Maintains VC ≤25.5V during 16.5A ISO 7637-2 Pulse 2b, preventing latch-up or damage to 3.3V/5V domain regulators. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 12V-to-3.3V buck converter front-end in ADAS camera modules exposed to battery line noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient suppressor located between connector and bulk capacitor, absorbing energy before input stage MOSFETs. Use Value: Withstands 400W peak pulses and operates up to +150°C, enabling compact placement adjacent to power inductors. |
| Industrial SMPS Secondary Side | LED Driver Input Protection |
Use Scenario: Securing feedback and auxiliary supply lines in telecom-grade AC/DC adapters subject to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS on optocoupler input or VCC rail to prevent false triggering during fast transients. Use Value: Sub-1μA leakage at 15.3V ensures minimal quiescent current impact on standby power budgets. | Use Scenario: Shielding constant-current LED driver ICs from inductive kickback when driving high-power COB arrays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamp device across input terminals to limit voltage overshoot during MOSFET turn-off transitions. Use Value: 25.5V clamping voltage aligns with typical 24V LED string forward voltage margins, avoiding unnecessary overdesign. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18CA | 600W rating, DO-214AA (SMB) package, higher IPPM (32.4A), same VBR range (16.2–19.8V) | Requires larger PCB footprint; better suited for higher-energy industrial surges | Select SMBJ18CA when system-level testing requires >400W margin or legacy board space allows SMB footprint |
| 1.5KE18CA | Through-hole TO-204AE (DO-41), 1500W rating, same VBR (16.2–19.8V), higher VC (28.8V) | Not SMT-compatible; used where manual assembly or high-reliability through-hole mounting is mandated | Choose 1.5KE18CA only for non-SMT designs or where regulatory certification requires legacy DO-41 form factor |
Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the P4SMA18CAH delivers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 compliance, 400W surge handling, and DO-214AC footprint-making it the preferred choice for space-constrained, automotive-qualified SMT power rail protection.
Availability
P4SMA18CAH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, on-board DC/DC converters, and industrial SMPS requiring stable component supply with full traceability and lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4SMA18CAH 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, specializing in TVS diodes, rectifiers, and power devices since 1979.
The P4SMA series belongs to TSC's AEC-Q101-qualified surface-mount TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for robust transient immunity in automotive power networks and industrial power supplies.
FAQ
What does the "CAH" suffix indicate in P4SMA18CAH?
The "CAH" suffix denotes a bidirectional configuration with tightened VBR tolerance (17.1V–18.9V) and AEC-Q101 qualification. Unlike unidirectional "H" variants, P4SMA18CAH has symmetrical avalanche characteristics on both terminals and omits cathode band marking-enabling polarity-agnostic PCB layout. This matches the exact specification defined in TSC's P4SMA6.8(A)H–P4SMA200(A)H datasheet Version A2102.
Does P4SMA18CAH meet ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump)?
No-P4SMA18CAH is rated for ISO 7637-2 Pulses 1, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b only. Pulse 5a (load dump) requires higher energy handling (typically >1000W) and is addressed by specialized load-dump suppressors such as TSC's P6SMB series. The P4SMA18CAH datasheet explicitly lists compliance for Pulses 1/2a/2b/3a/3b but excludes Pulse 5a, and its 400W rating is insufficient for sustained load-dump events.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P4SMA18CAH under standard test conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of P4SMA18CAH is 25.5V when subjected to a 10/1000μs waveform at IPPM = 16.5A, as specified in TSC's Electrical Specifications table for part number P4SMA18AH (which shares identical parameters with P4SMA18CAH per the family documentation). This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transient events.
Can P4SMA18CAH be used in place of unidirectional P4SMA18AH?
No-P4SMA18CAH is bidirectional and lacks polarity marking, while P4SMA18AH is unidirectional with a cathode band. Substituting them requires verifying circuit topology: bidirectional use (e.g., AC-coupled lines, differential buses) permits P4SMA18CAH; unidirectional DC rails require correct anode/cathode orientation and thus P4SMA18AH. The clamping curves and leakage behavior also differ slightly due to junction design, so direct replacement is not recommended without system-level validation.
Is P4SMA18CAH compliant with RoHS and halogen-free standards?
Yes-P4SMA18CAH is RoHS compliant and halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21, as confirmed in the FEATURES section of the official TSC datasheet (Version A2102). The molding compound meets UL 94V-0 flammability rating, and matte tin-plated leads satisfy J-STD-002 solderability requirements. These certifications are verified for the DO-214AC (SMA) package variant shipped under this part number.
P4SMA18CAH Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- P4SMA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15.3V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 25.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 16.5A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA18CAH FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA18CAH through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA18CAH 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 P4SMA18CAH reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA18CAH are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA18CAH is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA18CAH?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA18CAH transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA18CAH?
P4SMA18CAH orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA18CAH 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 P4SMA18CAH?
For technical support, including P4SMA18CAH datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA18CAH requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA18CAH is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA18CAH 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 P4SMA18CAH meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA18CAH?
All P4SMA18CAH units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA18CAH, 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 P4SMA18CAH part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA18CAH:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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