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

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA18CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in the P4SMA series, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features a 15.3 V standoff voltage (VWM), 18.9 V maximum breakdown voltage (VBR), 25.2 V clamping voltage at 15.9 A peak pulse current, 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use - deployed in sensor signal line protection in engine control units.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA18CAHM3/I datasheet, P4SMA18CAHM3/I pinout, P4SMA18CAHM3/I application, or P4SMA18CAHM3/I equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package dimensions, automotive-grade reliability context, clamping performance under surge conditions, and direct alternative options with documented functional trade-offs.
Technical Context
The P4SMA18CAHM3/I operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping positive and negative transients above its breakdown threshold without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<1 µA at 15.3 V) and fast response time (<1 ns), enabling protection of high-speed analog and digital interfaces against ESD and inductive switching spikes.
Thermally, it exhibits RθJA = 120 °C/W and RθJL = 30 °C/W, supporting operation up to +150 °C junction temperature. The device is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (derated to 300 W above 91 V), with 10/1000 µs waveform compliance and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity per J-STD-020.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 15.3 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before conduction begins; defines safe operating margin below clamping threshold. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA - Guaranteed avalanche onset range; ensures predictable turn-on during transient events. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 25.2 V at 15.9 A (10/1000 µs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; critical for IC survival. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Sustains single 10/1000 µs surges without degradation; derates linearly above 25 °C ambient. |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 15.9 A - Maximum non-repetitive surge current handled; determines minimum trace width and PCB copper area required. |
| TJmax | +150 °C - Enables deployment in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures without thermal derating. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTOL, TCT, and ESD; suffix HM3 denotes halogen-free RoHS-compliant AEC-Q101 version. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile plastic case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Dimensions: 4.93 mm × 3.99 mm × 2.29 mm (L × W × H); cathode band omitted for bidirectional configuration.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional terminal pair | No polarity marking; either terminal serves as anode or cathode depending on transient polarity - enables placement without orientation check. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity (4 kV line-to-line) with appropriate PCB layout and series impedance. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable leakage current (<1 µA at VWM) over lifetime and temperature, critical for low-power sensor bias networks. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C reflow compatible | Enables standard lead-free SMT assembly without pre-baking; eliminates moisture-related popcorning risk. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive powertrain and body electronics; includes extended temperature cycling and high-temperature operating life testing. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC JS709C; supports sustainability requirements for Tier 1 OEM supply chains. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Signal Protection | Industrial CAN Bus Line Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure, temperature, and position sensors in engine control modules exposed to load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed across differential or single-ended sensor outputs to limit transient excursions to <25.2 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream op-amps and ADC inputs while maintaining signal integrity below 15.3 V nominal operation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding CAN_H and CAN_L lines in vehicle body control modules against ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±8 kV contact) and ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a/3a transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Symmetric TVS pair (one per line) shunting surge energy away from CAN transceiver I/O pins. Use Value: Maintains bus communication integrity during ignition switching events without adding capacitance-induced timing skew (CJ < 100 pF at 0 V). |
| Consumer USB Port ESD Protection | Telecom DSL Line Surge Suppression |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-level ESD protection on USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in set-top boxes and smart displays, downstream of primary polymer-based TVS. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response silicon avalanche clamp limiting post-primary-clamp overshoot to ≤25.2 V. Use Value: Adds robustness against repeated human-body-model (HBM) discharges without degrading 480 Mbps data eye due to low junction capacitance. |
Use Scenario: Front-end surge suppression on ADSL/VDSL line interface cards subjected to lightning-induced longitudinal surges per ITU-T K.20/K.21. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional high-energy clamp placed between transformer secondary and line driver/receiver. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W surges without failure, preserving signal fidelity on voice-grade twisted-pair lines while meeting UL 497B protector classification. |
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 VWM/VBR/VC, but SMB package (DO-214AA) - 20 % larger footprint, 50 % higher RθJA (150 °C/W). | Less suitable for dense automotive PCBs; preferred where higher thermal mass is acceptable and board space permits. | Select SMBJ18CA only if existing layout uses SMB pads or requires higher single-pulse energy margin beyond 400 W. |
| 1.5KE18CA | Through-hole TO-218 package; identical electrical specs but 1500 W peak power rating and slower response (>5 ns). | Used in legacy industrial power supplies; not suitable for high-speed data lines or automated SMT assembly. | Choose 1.5KE18CA only for retrofitting through-hole designs or when >1 kW surge handling is mandatory and layout allows axial leads. |
Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the P4SMA18CAHM3/I offers optimal balance of compact SMA footprint, AEC-Q101 qualification, and 400 W surge capability - making it the preferred choice for new automotive and space-constrained industrial designs requiring automated assembly and long-term reliability validation.
Availability
P4SMA18CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial CAN bus interfaces, consumer USB port hardening, and telecom DSL line surge suppression requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.
Supply support for P4SMA18CAHM3/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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability, precision, and automotive-grade qualification.
The P4SMA series is engineered specifically for surface-mount transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where compact size, AEC-Q101 compliance, and repeatable clamping performance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4SMA18CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA18CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V at 15.9 A peak pulse current with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured under standardized surge conditions and represents the highest voltage the protected circuit will experience during a worst-case transient event. The P4SMA18CAHM3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range (-65 °C to +150 °C), ensuring consistent protection in automotive under-hood environments.
Is the P4SMA18CAHM3/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4SMA18CAHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and carries the HM3 suffix, indicating halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction validated for automotive use. It undergoes rigorous stress testing including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and ESD robustness per AEC-Q101 requirements. The P4SMA18CAHM3/I is commonly deployed in engine control units, body control modules, and ADAS sensor interfaces where reliability under thermal and electrical stress is critical.
How does the bidirectional configuration of the P4SMA18CAHM3/I affect its PCB layout?
The P4SMA18CAHM3/I has no polarity marking and functions identically in both directions, eliminating orientation constraints during placement. This simplifies automated pick-and-place programming and reduces assembly errors. Layout requires symmetric 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal to meet the 400 W pulse power rating, and no silkscreen polarity indicator is needed - unlike unidirectional variants such as P4SMA18A. The P4SMA18CAHM3/I's DO-214AC package fits standard SMA footprints without modification.
What is the maximum junction temperature rating for the P4SMA18CAHM3/I?
The P4SMA18CAHM3/I has a maximum junction temperature (TJmax) of +150 °C, enabling reliable operation in high-ambient environments such as automotive engine compartments or industrial motor drives. Its thermal resistance values - RθJA = 120 °C/W and RθJL = 30 °C/W - allow accurate thermal modeling when mounted on recommended copper pad areas. Derating curves in the datasheet confirm sustained operation up to 150 °C ambient when power dissipation remains within limits, a key specification for the P4SMA18CAHM3/I in mission-critical systems.
Does the P4SMA18CAHM3/I meet industry standards for surge immunity testing?
Yes, the P4SMA18CAHM3/I supports compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 (surge immunity), IEC 61000-4-2 (ESD), and ISO 7637-2 (automotive transients) when applied with appropriate series impedance and PCB layout. Its 400 W peak pulse power rating aligns with Level 4 (4 kV line-to-line) surge testing per IEC 61000-4-5, and its <1 ns response time ensures clamping before sensitive ICs are stressed. The P4SMA18CAHM3/I is also UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2 file E136766), confirming suitability for safety-critical telecom and industrial protectors.
P4SMA18CAHM3/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):
- 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/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA18CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA18CAHM3/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 P4SMA18CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA18CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA18CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA18CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA18CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA18CAHM3/I?
P4SMA18CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA18CAHM3/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 P4SMA18CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA18CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA18CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA18CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA18CAHM3/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 P4SMA18CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA18CAHM3/I?
All P4SMA18CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA18CAHM3/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 P4SMA18CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA18CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA18CAHM3/I Tags

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