Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA20AHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- P4SMA20AHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, rated for 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 21.0 V maximum breakdown voltage (VBR), and 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs). It provides clamping protection for ICs, MOSFETs, and sensor signal lines in automotive, industrial, and telecom systems.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA20AHM3_A/I datasheet, P4SMA20AHM3_A/I pinout, P4SMA20AHM3_A/I application, or P4SMA20AHM3_A/I equivalent, this AEC-Q101 qualified, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant TVS offers verified 27.7 V clamping voltage at 14.4 A peak pulse current, low thermal resistance (RθJL = 30 °C/W), and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity - critical for high-reliability automotive PCB designs.
Technical Context
The P4SMA20AHM3_A/I operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, enabling fast response (<1 ns) to transient overvoltages. Its 20 V stand-off voltage allows reliable blocking during normal operation while triggering conduction above ~21 V breakdown threshold.
Designed for 10/1000 µs surge waveforms, it delivers 400 W peak pulse power at TA = 25 °C (derated above 25 °C per Fig. 2), with 3.3 W steady-state power dissipation on infinite heatsink at 50 °C. The device meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and UL 94 V-0 flammability requirements.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 17.1 V - Maximum reverse voltage before significant leakage; ensures stable blocking of 17.1 V DC or AC RMS signals without conduction. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 19.0–21.0 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; guarantees predictable clamping initiation within this band under test conditions. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 27.7 V at IPPM = 14.4 A - Measured maximum voltage across device during 10/1000 µs surge; defines worst-case stress on protected downstream circuitry. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 µs) - Sustains single transient energy bursts up to 400 W; derates linearly above 25 °C ambient per Fig. 2. |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | 1.0 µA max at VWM - Ultra-low leakage preserves signal integrity and battery life in always-on sensor interfaces. |
| TJ max | 150 °C - Maximum junction temperature rating; supports operation in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per AEC standard. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile plastic case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102. Cathode indicated by band marking.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal during forward conduction | Connected to ground or low-side reference in unidirectional TVS configuration; enables clamping to GND when transients exceed VBR. |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal during forward conduction; marked with band | Connected to protected line (e.g., I/O, power rail); reverse-biased during normal operation, avalanches during overvoltage events. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Handles high-energy surges common in automotive load-dump and inductive switching without failure. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast transients, improving clamping precision and downstream component safety. |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow) | Compatible with standard lead-free SMT reflow profiles without preconditioning or baking. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified & halogen-free | Meets automotive electronics reliability and environmental compliance requirements (P/N suffix HM3 denotes both). |
| Glass passivated chip junction | Enhances long-term stability and moisture resistance versus epoxy-passivated alternatives. |
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 ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a/3a transients in engine control units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamping TVS placed between signal line and chassis ground, triggered within nanoseconds of overvoltage onset. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤27.7 V, preventing damage to 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs while maintaining signal fidelity during normal operation (leakage <1 µA). |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input modules in programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced surges and relay contact bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS on each input channel, absorbing repetitive 400 W pulses without degradation due to robust thermal design (RθJL = 30 °C/W). Use Value: Enables >100,000 surge cycles per channel with no parameter shift, reducing field failure rates in factory automation equipment. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer Power Adapter ESD Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY power pins and auxiliary bias rails in PoE-powered switches from lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS on 48 V supply rail, coordinated with secondary-stage polymer PTCs for staged overvoltage suppression. Use Value: Clamps 4 kV/2 kA surges to safe levels (≤27.7 V) while surviving repeated exposure thanks to 400 W rating and AEC-Q101 robustness. |
Use Scenario: ESD protection on USB-C VBUS and CC lines in wall adapters, meeting IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV air/±8 kV contact discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response unidirectional TVS placed directly at connector, shunting ESD current to ground before reaching controller IC. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response time and 1 µA leakage preserve USB-C negotiation timing and prevent false disconnects during repeated ESD events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20A-E3/5A | Same SMA package, 20 V VWM, but rated for 400 W only up to 91 V; clamping voltage 32.4 V at 12.3 A (higher than P4SMA20AHM3_A/I's 27.7 V). | Lacks AEC-Q101 qualification and halogen-free certification; suitable for commercial-grade, non-automotive use. | Select when cost is prioritized over automotive compliance and tighter clamping performance. |
| 1.5SMC20AHE3_A | Higher-power SMC package (1500 W), same 20 V VWM, clamping voltage 32.4 V at 46.7 A; larger footprint (7.11 × 6.22 mm vs. SMA's 4.5 × 2.79 mm). | Used where higher surge energy handling is required (e.g., AC mains input stages); not drop-in compatible due to size and thermal mass differences. | Select when system-level surge requirements exceed 400 W and board space permits larger SMC footprint. |
Compared with SMAJ20A-E3/5A and 1.5SMC20AHE3_A, the P4SMA20AHM3_A/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free construction, superior clamping (27.7 V), and compact SMA packaging - making it the optimal choice for space-constrained, automotive-grade 20 V rail protection where leakage (<1 µA) and thermal performance (RθJL = 30 °C/W) are critical.
Availability
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom power interface designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for P4SMA20AHM3_A/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, rectifiers, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA Series is designed specifically for surface-mount transient voltage suppression in automotive, industrial, and communications equipment, delivering high-power surge handling in ultra-compact SMA packages with AEC-Q101 validation.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA20AHM3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA20AHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V at 14.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM), measured under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform conditions. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events and is confirmed in the Vishay P4SMA datasheet revision 09-Jan-2024, page 2.
Is P4SMA20AHM3_A/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, P4SMA20AHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as indicated by the "HM3" suffix (halogen-free + AEC-Q101) and explicitly stated in the Vishay P4SMA datasheet, section "MECHANICAL DATA". It undergoes full stress testing per AEC-Q101 including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD, making it suitable for under-hood and body-control module applications.
What does the "_A/I" suffix mean in P4SMA20AHM3_A/I?
In P4SMA20AHM3_A/I, "A" denotes the revision level (per ordering table footnote 1), and "I" specifies the tape-and-reel delivery mode: 7500 units per 13-inch diameter reel. The "HM3" portion confirms halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified construction, distinguishing it from commercial-grade E3/M3 variants.
What is the maximum operating junction temperature for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I?
The P4SMA20AHM3_A/I has a maximum junction temperature (TJ max) of +150 °C, as specified in the "MAXIMUM RATINGS" table of the Vishay P4SMA datasheet (Document Number: 88367, page 2). This rating enables reliable operation in high-ambient environments such as automotive engine compartments and industrial control cabinets.
How does the thermal resistance of P4SMA20AHM3_A/I affect PCB layout?
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 30 °C/W, meaning efficient heat transfer occurs through the leads to copper pads. For optimal thermal performance, Vishay recommends mounting on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal - a layout requirement directly tied to its 400 W pulse rating and must be implemented to avoid derating.
P4SMA20AHM3_A/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:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 19V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 27.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 14.4A
- 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)
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA20AHM3_A/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 P4SMA20AHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA20AHM3_A/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I?
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA20AHM3_A/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 P4SMA20AHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA20AHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA20AHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA20AHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA20AHM3_A/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 P4SMA20AHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA20AHM3_A/I?
All P4SMA20AHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA20AHM3_A/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 P4SMA20AHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA20AHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA20AHM3_A/I Tags

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