Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA18CAHM3/H
- Part No.:
- P4SMA18CAHM3/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA18CAHM3/H.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,773
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Product details
Overview
P4SMA18CAHM3/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 breakdown voltage (VBR min/max = 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA), 15.3 V standoff voltage (VWM), 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 signal lines in automotive and industrial control systems.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA18CAHM3/H datasheet, P4SMA18CAHM3/H pinout, P4SMA18CAHM3/H application, or P4SMA18CAHM3/H equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), clamping performance under surge conditions, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction per JESD201 Class 2 whisker test.
Technical Context
The P4SMA18CAHM3/H operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping both positive and negative transients without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response time (<1 ns), while low incremental surge resistance enables effective energy diversion during ESD or lightning-induced surges.
Rated for 150 °C maximum junction temperature and compliant with AEC-Q101 for automotive use, it delivers 3.3 W steady-state power dissipation and supports repetitive surge duty cycles up to 0.01 % at 400 W (derated to 300 W above 91 V). Mounting on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads is required to achieve specified thermal and pulse ratings.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for reliable transient detection |
| VWM | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 1 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 15.9 A - clamped voltage during 10/1000 µs surge, limiting stress on downstream circuitry |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak pulse power handling capability under standard 10/1000 µs waveform |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - thermal resistance from junction to ambient, critical for PCB pad layout design |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum allowable junction temperature, enabling operation in under-hood automotive environments |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102. Bidirectional construction means no cathode/anode marking; terminals are symmetrical.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals function identically; conducts bidirectionally when voltage exceeds ±VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or differential signal lines without polarity concerns |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Handles high-energy transients such as ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a in automotive electronics |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C) | Compatible with standard lead-free reflow processes without moisture sensitivity concerns |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.41) | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to protected ICs compared to higher-ratio TVS devices |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and inductive switching spikes in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed across differential signal pair or supply rail to limit transient excursions. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs by clamping surges to ≤25.2 V while maintaining signal integrity. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback and field wiring ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected transient suppressor on 24 V DC input lines to absorb repetitive 400 W surges without degradation. Use Value: Extends system uptime by eliminating false triggering and component failure caused by >1 kV transients on factory floor wiring. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Output | Telecom Line Interface |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression in AC/DC adapters for USB-C PD and smart home hubs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed between VOUT and GND to clamp output overshoot during regulation loop instability. Use Value: Ensures compliance with IEC 62368-1 surge immunity requirements while avoiding crowbar shutdown of downstream converters. |
Use Scenario: Protection of Ethernet PHY front-end and DSL line drivers against lightning-induced surges on outdoor telecom lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-stage clamping device in hybrid protection circuits with gas discharge tubes and series impedance. Use Value: Limits let-through voltage to <30 V during 10/700 µs telecom surges, preserving signal integrity and preventing PHY latch-up. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18CA | Same VBR range (17.1–18.9 V), but SMB package (DO-214AA); 600 W PPPM, RθJA = 80 °C/W | Higher power handling and better thermal performance, but larger footprint (4.5 mm × 3.9 mm vs. 4.3 mm × 2.6 mm) | Select SMBJ18CA when board space allows and higher surge margin or lower thermal resistance is required. |
| 1.5KE18CA | Through-hole TO-204AE (DO-15); same VBR, 1500 W PPPM, RθJA = 10 °C/W on infinite heatsink | Designed for high-power legacy designs; incompatible with SMT assembly and automated placement | Choose 1.5KE18CA only for through-hole prototyping or repair of existing through-hole systems. |
Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the P4SMA18CAHM3/H offers optimal balance of compact SMA footprint, AEC-Q101 qualification, and 400 W surge capability - making it preferred for space-constrained automotive and industrial SMT designs where halogen-free compliance and MSL Level 1 are mandatory.
Availability
P4SMA18CAHM3/H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, consumer power adapter outputs, and telecom line interfaces requiring stable component supply, halogen-free compliance, and AEC-Q101 validation.
Supply support for P4SMA18CAHM3/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 was developed for robust, surface-mount transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics - delivering standardized TVS performance in compact, qualified packages with consistent clamping behavior and low leakage.
FAQ
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in P4SMA18CAHM3/H?
The "HM3" suffix in P4SMA18CAHM3/H denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance. The "H" indicates 7-inch tape-and-reel packaging (1800 units per reel), and "/H" confirms that configuration. This makes P4SMA18CAHM3/H suitable for automotive and high-reliability industrial applications where material compliance and long-term stability are critical.
Is P4SMA18CAHM3/H unidirectional or bidirectional?
P4SMA18CAHM3/H is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor, as confirmed by the "CA" suffix and absence of polarity marking. It clamps transients equally in both directions - ideal for protecting AC-coupled signals, differential buses like CAN or RS-485, and dual-polarity power rails. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA18AHM3/H), P4SMA18CAHM3/H has no cathode band and symmetric terminal behavior.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P4SMA18CAHM3/H and under what test condition?
The maximum clamping voltage of P4SMA18CAHM3/H is 25.2 V, measured at 15.9 A peak pulse current (IPPM) using the standard 10/1000 µs double-exponential waveform. This value is guaranteed per Vishay's datasheet (Document Number 88367, Rev. 09-Jan-2024) and reflects worst-case voltage seen by protected circuitry during surge events - essential for validating safe operating margins of downstream ICs.
Does P4SMA18CAHM3/H meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, P4SMA18CAHM3/H is AEC-Q101 qualified, as explicitly stated in the Vishay datasheet under "Mechanical Data" and "Ordering Information". This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), temperature cycling, and ESD - confirming suitability for automotive applications such as body control modules, infotainment systems, and ADAS sensor interfaces where reliability under harsh environmental conditions is mandatory.
What is the thermal resistance and how does it affect PCB layout for P4SMA18CAHM3/H?
P4SMA18CAHM3/H has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W, measured with minimum recommended pad layout (0.2" × 0.2" copper pads per terminal). This value directly impacts sustained power handling: exceeding 3.3 W continuous dissipation risks thermal runaway. To maintain reliability, designers must implement adequate copper area and avoid excessive trace length or isolation - especially in automotive under-hood or industrial high-ambient environments.
P4SMA18CAHM3/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:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- 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/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA18CAHM3/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA18CAHM3/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/H reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA18CAHM3/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/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA18CAHM3/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA18CAHM3/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA18CAHM3/H?
P4SMA18CAHM3/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA18CAHM3/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/H?
For technical support, including P4SMA18CAHM3/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA18CAHM3/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA18CAHM3/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA18CAHM3/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/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA18CAHM3/H?
All P4SMA18CAHM3/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA18CAHM3/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/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA18CAHM3/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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