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

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) in the P4SMA series, 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 to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in automotive and industrial electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I datasheet, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I pinout, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I application, or P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, SMA (DO-214AC) package compatibility, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), and compliance with UL 497B surge protector requirements.
Technical Context
The P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, delivering symmetrical clamping in both polarities without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown behavior and low incremental surge resistance under repetitive 10/1000 µs transients.
Rated for -65 °C to +150 °C operating junction temperature, it supports automotive-grade reliability per AEC-Q101 and meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 (peak reflow ≤ 260 °C). The device is halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and qualified under Vishay's HM3 automotive ordering code.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe operating margin for protected circuitry. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 22.8 V min / 25.2 V max at 1 mA - Avalanche onset threshold; ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 27.7 V max at 14.4 A IPPM - Peak voltage seen by downstream components during 10/1000 µs surge; critical for IC-level protection. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Sustained transient energy absorption capability under standard 10/1000 µs waveform; derates above 25 °C per Fig. 2. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - Junction-to-ambient thermal resistance on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads; determines thermal derating in PCB layout. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount outline with 5.28 mm length, 4.50 mm width, and 2.29 mm height; compatible with automated placement. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), bidirectional configuration - no cathode/anode marking; symmetrical terminal design.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Terminal 1) | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Functions identically to Terminal 2 under reverse or forward surge; enables symmetrical clamping across both polarities. |
| Cathode (Terminal 2) | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Electrically identical to Terminal 1; no polarity distinction - both terminals serve as interchangeable surge current paths. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines without polarity concerns. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Handles high-energy transients from inductive switching (e.g., solenoid drivers) without degradation. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive underhood and cabin environments with extended temperature cycling and humidity testing. |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Supports lead-free reflow soldering without moisture-related popcorn failure or delamination. |
| UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2) | Meets Underwriters Laboratories requirements for telecom and industrial surge protector classification. |
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 ESD in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across differential signal pairs or supply rails to clamp fast transients before they reach sensitive analog front-ends. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage in AEC-Q100 qualified microcontrollers and signal conditioners during ISO 7637-2 pulse 5a/b events. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital input modules in programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced surges and ground bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-connected TVS on each input channel, absorbing >1 kV/10/700 µs telecom surges per IEC 61000-4-5. Use Value: Maintains functional safety integrity (IEC 61508 SIL2) by limiting transient voltage to <30 V at the optocoupler input stage. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Power Adapter Output |
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHYs and DSL line drivers from lightning-induced surges on unshielded twisted-pair cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device on MDI/MDIX lines, coordinated with GDT secondary protection per GR-1089-CORE. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to 27.7 V while sustaining 400 W pulses - preserving signal integrity and preventing PHY reset during Category 3 surge tests. |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression on 5 V/12 V USB-C PD adapter outputs exposed to hot-plug and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS placed between VBUS and GND to suppress ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV contact) and overshoot from regulator transient response. Use Value: Achieves sub-1 ns response time and <1 µA leakage at 20 V - eliminating standby power loss while ensuring USB-IF compliance. |
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 mass (SMB/DO-214AA); RθJA = 80 °C/W vs. 120 °C/W; same VWM/VC specs. | Better suited for higher average power dissipation in industrial power supplies with limited airflow. | Select SMBJ20CA when board space allows larger footprint and thermal management requires lower junction rise per watt. |
| 1.5SMC20CA | Higher PPPM (1500 W) but larger SMC (DO-214AB) package; 3× footprint area; VWM/VC identical. | Used where legacy designs require higher surge margin without changing clamping behavior. | Choose 1.5SMC20CA only if system-level surge testing exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 and PCB layout accommodates 7.1 mm × 6.2 mm outline. |
Compared with SMBJ20CA and 1.5SMC20CA, the P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I offers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 qualification, compact SMA footprint, and verified 400 W surge handling - making it preferred for space-constrained automotive and portable industrial modules where MSL-1 reflow and halogen-free compliance are mandatory.
Availability
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, telecom line protection, and consumer power adapter output stages requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4SMA20CAHM3_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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific validation.
The P4SMA series was developed to deliver standardized, AEC-Q101-qualified transient protection in compact surface-mount packages for automotive, industrial, and telecom systems demanding consistent clamping performance and reflow compatibility.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V at 14.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 1 in Vishay document 88367 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Is P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified (indicated by the HM3 suffix) and specifically validated for automotive use, including under-hood and cabin electronics. It meets stringent requirements for temperature cycling, humidity resistance, and mechanical shock - making it appropriate for protecting CAN transceivers, sensor signal chains, and power supply rails in vehicles compliant with ISO 16750.
What does the "CA" suffix mean in P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression for both positive and negative voltage excursions. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA20A), P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I has no polarity marking and functions identically across either terminal orientation, simplifying layout for AC-coupled or floating interfaces.
What is the thermal resistance of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I, and how does it affect PCB layout?
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. This value assumes minimal copper area - increasing pad size or adding internal ground planes reduces RθJA, directly improving surge endurance and enabling higher duty-cycle operation in thermally constrained designs.
Does P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I meet UL recognition standards?
Yes, P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I is UL Recognized under file E136766 for both unidirectional and bidirectional configurations, meeting UL 497B requirements for telecommunications and industrial surge protectors. This certification confirms compliance with safety standards for voltage-limiting devices used in primary and secondary circuits - essential for end-product listings in North America.
P4SMA20CAHM3_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:
- -
- 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/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I?
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I?
All P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA20CAHM3_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 P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA20CAHM3_A/I Tags

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