Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H
- Part No.:
- P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,226
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H 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 18 V standoff voltage (VWM), 25.2 V maximum clamping voltage at 15.9 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power capability with 10/1000 µs waveform - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in automotive and industrial control systems.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H datasheet, P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H pinout, P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H application, or P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping performance, AEC-Q101 qualification, 150 °C max junction temperature, low incremental surge resistance, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard PCB pads.
Technical Context
The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, conducting symmetrically in both polarities above its breakdown voltage (VBR min 17.1 V, max 18.9 V at 1 mA). Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable reverse leakage (<1 µA at 15.3 V) and fast response time (<1 ns) to ESD and lightning-induced surges.
Thermally, it exhibits RθJA = 120 °C/W and RθJL = 30 °C/W, enabling reliable operation up to 150 °C junction temperature. The device is halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and qualified to AEC-Q101 - confirming suitability for automotive electronics where reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress is critical.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off) | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before clamping begins; defines safe operating margin for 12 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (Breakdown) | 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA - precise avalanche initiation range ensuring consistent transient suppression across production lots. |
| VC (Clamping) | 25.2 V at IPPM = 15.9 A - peak voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 µs surge; enables robust protection of 24 V logic interfaces. |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak pulse power handling per 10/1000 µs waveform; supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 Ω) surge immunity. |
| ID (Leakage) | <1 µA at VWM - negligible standby current; avoids loading of high-impedance sensor or communication lines. |
| TJ max | 150 °C - extended thermal rating allowing use in under-hood automotive modules and industrial enclosures without derating. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HAST, and mechanical shock testing. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, halogen-free, matte tin-plated terminals solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. No polarity marking on bidirectional devices.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal in forward conduction | Conducts during positive transients relative to cathode; symmetrical role in bidirectional operation. |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal in forward conduction | Conducts during negative transients relative to anode; identical clamping behavior in both directions. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Identical VBR and VC in both polarities - eliminates need for polarity-aware layout in differential or AC-coupled signal paths. |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Handles 10/1000 µs surges up to 15.9 A - meets IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity requirements for industrial fieldbus nodes. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive powertrain and body electronics - supports long-term deployment in harsh thermal/humidity environments. |
| MSL Level 1 | Unlimited floor life at ≤30 °C/60% RH - compatible with standard SMT reflow without baking or dry pack handling. |
| Glass passivated junction | Stable leakage and breakdown characteristics over 10+ years - ensures consistent protection performance in mission-critical applications. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface Protection | Industrial CAN Bus Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of engine coolant temperature (ECT) and manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensors from load dump and inductive switching transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping element placed directly at connector entry point before signal conditioning amplifier. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤25.2 V, preventing latch-up or damage to 3.3 V/5 V ADC inputs while maintaining <1 µA leakage at 15.3 V standby. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding CAN_H and CAN_L lines in vehicle body control modules against ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±8 kV contact) and burst noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional suppressor mounted differential across bus pair, referenced to ground via common-mode choke. Use Value: Clamps common-mode surges without distorting 1 Mbps CAN signaling due to fast <1 ns response and symmetrical 17.1–18.9 V VBR tolerance. |
| Telecom Power Supply Input Protection | Consumer Appliance Motor Driver Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding 24 V DC input rails of PoE-powered network switches from induced lightning surges on outdoor Ethernet cables. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS placed upstream of DC-DC converter input, coordinated with MOV and fuse. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W peak energy (10/1000 µs) without degradation, enabling compliance with UL 60950-1 and EN 61000-4-5 Level 4. |
Use Scenario: Suppressing back-EMF spikes from brushed DC motors in smart washing machines and HVAC blowers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamp across motor terminals, parallel to flyback diode, handling repetitive commutation transients. Use Value: Withstands 300 W repetitive surges above 91 V and maintains stable clamping after >10⁵ cycles - extends motor driver MOSFET lifetime. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bidirectional TVS protection applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18CA | Same VWM (15.3 V), VC = 29.2 V at 13.7 A; lower PPPM (400 W same), but higher clamping voltage and no AEC-Q101 qualification. | Commercial-grade only; not validated for automotive thermal cycling or humidity exposure. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs automotive qualification requirements and higher clamping voltage is acceptable. |
| 1.5SMC18CA | Higher power rating (1500 W), larger SMC (DO-214AB) package; VWM = 15.3 V, VC = 29.2 V at 51.3 A - significantly higher clamping voltage and footprint. | Used where surge energy exceeds 400 W, e.g., AC mains input stages; incompatible with space-constrained SMT layouts. | Choose only if system-level surge testing requires >400 W absorption and board area permits larger SMC footprint. |
Compared with SMAJ18CA and 1.5SMC18CA, P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H delivers tighter clamping (25.2 V vs. ≥29.2 V), AEC-Q101 validation for automotive use, and SMA package compatibility with high-density PCBs - making it optimal for space-limited, safety-critical transient suppression where low VC and qualification matter most.
Availability
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial CAN bus nodes, telecom power inputs, and consumer appliance motor drivers requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 assurance, and consistent 400 W surge handling.
Supply support for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H 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-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom systems - engineered for low clamping voltage, fast response, and robust MSL Level 1 manufacturability.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V at 15.9 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under 10/1000 µs waveform conditions. This value is measured per standard test methods and reflects the actual voltage imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case surge events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H achieves this with low incremental surge resistance inherent to its glass-passivated junction design.
Is P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's ordering code suffix "HM3" and documentation revision 09-Jan-2024. This qualification covers stress tests including temperature cycling, high-accelerated temperature/humidity stress (HAST), and mechanical shock - validating its use in automotive body electronics, powertrain sensors, and infotainment systems. The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H also meets MSL Level 1 for reflow compatibility without preconditioning.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient voltage suppression in both polarities, with identical breakdown (17.1–18.9 V) and clamping (25.2 V) characteristics regardless of voltage polarity. This eliminates polarity marking on the SMA package and simplifies layout for AC-coupled or differential signal lines. The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H does not have a cathode band, distinguishing it from unidirectional variants like P4SMA18A.
What is the maximum operating junction temperature for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H?
The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H has a maximum junction temperature (TJ max) of +150 °C, as specified in Vishay's datasheet Document Number 88367. This rating enables reliable operation in under-hood automotive environments and sealed industrial enclosures without thermal derating below ambient temperatures up to +105 °C. The device's RθJA of 120 °C/W and RθJL of 30 °C/W support effective heat dissipation when mounted on recommended 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads - essential for sustained surge duty cycles.
How does P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H differ from commercial-grade P4SMA18CA variants?
The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H differs from commercial-grade P4SMA18CA variants primarily through its HM3 suffix: halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified construction. Commercial versions (e.g., P4SMA18CA-E3) lack automotive qualification and may use different molding compounds or plating processes. The P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H also carries specific revision coding ("A/H") indicating tape-and-reel packaging (H = 7" reel, 1800 pcs) and halogen-free compliance - verified in Vishay's ordering information table on page 3 of document 88367.
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H 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):
- 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:
- 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)
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H 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 P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H?
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H 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 P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H?
For technical support, including P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H 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 P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H?
All P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H, 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 P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA18CAHM3_A/H Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

