Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H
- Part No.:
- P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA20CAHM3_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 a 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 22.8 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 27.7 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 14.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 400 W peak pulse power (PPPM) with 10/1000 µs waveform - used in automotive sensor protection, industrial I/O interfaces, and telecom line surge suppression.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H datasheet, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H pinout, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H application, or P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free RoHS compliance, low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.21), and compatibility with automated SMT assembly on standard PCB pad layouts.
Technical Context
The P4SMA20CAHM3_A/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 its low incremental surge resistance minimizes voltage overshoot during ESD or lightning-induced surges.
Thermally, it exhibits RθJA = 120 °C/W and RθJL = 30 °C/W, enabling reliable operation up to TJ = +150 °C. The device is rated for repetitive 0.01% duty cycle pulses and meets UL 497B recognition (QVGQ2) for protector classification, supporting robust system-level surge immunity per IEC 61000-4-5.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before conduction begins; defines safe operating margin below clamping threshold. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 22.8 V min / 25.2 V max at 1 mA - Avalanche onset range; ensures predictable turn-on under transient stress. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 27.7 V max at IPPM = 14.4 A - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 µs surge; determines downstream component stress. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Surge energy handling capacity with 10/1000 µs waveform; supports Level 4 IEC 61000-4-5 (4 kV/2 Ω) testing. |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | 1.0 µA max at VWM - Negligible standby current; avoids loading of high-impedance signal lines. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables use in under-hood automotive and industrial environments. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including HTOL, TC, and ESD testing per AEC specification. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Bidirectional construction has no polarity marking.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | One end of symmetrical avalanche junction; connects to protected line or ground reference depending on layout. |
| Cathode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Other end of symmetrical avalanche junction; functionally identical to Anode in bidirectional configuration. |
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 (10/1000 µs) | Supports high-energy surge events typical in industrial motor drives and automotive power distribution networks. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control modules, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces. |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C reflow) | Compatible with standard lead-free SMT reflow profiles without moisture sensitivity concerns. |
| UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2) | Meets safety standards for telecom and industrial equipment requiring certified surge protection components. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial Digital I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and inductive switching transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamp placed between signal line and chassis ground to limit transient overvoltage before it reaches sensitive analog front-end or communication ICs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a events; VC ≤ 27.7 V prevents damage to 3.3 V or 5 V interface ICs. |
Use Scenario: Shielding PLC digital input modules from field-side surge coupling via 24 V DC control wiring exposed to relay coil kickback or lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting shunt element across input terminals to divert >1 kV transients away from optocoupler input stages and microcontroller GPIOs. Use Value: Withstands 400 W surges at 10/1000 µs, enabling compliance with IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT) and IEC 61000-4-5 (surge) immunity requirements. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer Device USB/UART ESD Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485 transceivers and Ethernet PHYs in base station backhaul equipment against induced surges on long-distance twisted-pair cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device on differential data lines, coordinated with common-mode chokes and secondary filtering. Use Value: Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.21) and <1 ns response ensure minimal data corruption during multi-kV transients. |
Use Scenario: Adding robust ESD immunity to USB 2.0 D+/D− lines and UART TX/RX paths in smart home hubs and portable medical devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS placed adjacent to connector to absorb ±15 kV contact discharge (IEC 61000-4-2) before reaching interface ICs. Use Value: 1.0 µA leakage at 20 V avoids signal attenuation on high-speed lines; SMA footprint allows compact placement near connectors. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ20CA | Higher package thermal resistance (RθJA = 150 °C/W vs. 120 °C/W); same VWM/VC but lower IPPM (12.3 A vs. 14.4 A). | Less suitable for high-repetition-rate surges in enclosed industrial enclosures due to reduced thermal dissipation. | Prefer P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H where board space permits SMA and higher pulse current headroom is needed. |
| 1.5KE20CA | Through-hole DO-201 package; higher PPPM (1500 W) but larger footprint and slower response due to parasitic inductance. | Not suitable for high-frequency signal lines or dense SMT layouts; better for bulk power rail protection. | Choose P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H for space-constrained, high-speed, or automotive SMT designs requiring AEC-Q101 compliance. |
Compared with SMBJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, the P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H delivers superior thermal performance in SMT form factor, AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use, and optimized clamping for signal-line protection - making it the preferred choice for modern embedded systems requiring compact, reliable, and standards-compliant transient suppression.
Availability
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, telecom line drivers, and consumer USB/UART protection requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for P4SMA20CAHM3_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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA Series targets cost-effective, high-volume transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom applications - engineered for AEC-Q101 compliance, automated assembly, and consistent clamping performance across temperature and life cycle.
FAQ
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H?
The "CA" suffix denotes a bidirectional configuration: the P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H provides symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients, with no polarity marking required. This distinguishes it from unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA20AHM3_A/H), which feature a cathode band and conduct only in reverse bias. The CA version is ideal for AC-coupled or differential signal protection where polarity reversal may occur.
Is P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the "HM3" suffix confirms that P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H is halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified. It has undergone stress testing including high-temperature operating life (HTOL), temperature cycling (TC), and ESD per AEC-Q101 Rev H, making it suitable for under-hood and cabin electronics such as body control modules, ADAS sensors, and infotainment interfaces.
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V at its specified peak pulse current (IPPM) of 14.4 A, measured with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value reflects the worst-case voltage imposed on the protected circuit during surge conditions and is critical for ensuring downstream ICs (e.g., 3.3 V or 5 V logic) remain within absolute maximum ratings.
How does the SMA (DO-214AC) package of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H compare to SMB or SMC packages in surge handling?
The SMA package of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H offers a balanced trade-off: smaller footprint than SMB/SMC but sufficient thermal mass for 400 W peak pulse power. Its RθJA of 120 °C/W is lower than SMB's ~150 °C/W, enabling better sustained surge performance in compact layouts. Unlike SMC, SMA avoids excessive parasitic inductance, preserving sub-nanosecond response - essential for high-speed signal line protection.
Does P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H meet any safety certifications for surge protectors?
Yes, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H is Underwriters Laboratory (UL) recognized under file E136766 for protector classification per UL 497B (QVGQ2), covering both unidirectional and bidirectional devices. This certification validates its suitability in telecom, industrial, and consumer equipment requiring certified transient suppression components - independent of end-product certification requirements.
P4SMA20CAHM3_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):
- 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)
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H?
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H?
For technical support, including P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H?
All P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/H Tags

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