Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA20CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- P4SMA20CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA20CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA20CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for clamping voltage transients on signal and power lines. It features a 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 22.2 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 27.7 V maximum clamping voltage at 14.4 A peak pulse current, 400 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive applications.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA20CAHM3/I datasheet, P4SMA20CAHM3/I pinout, P4SMA20CAHM3/I application, or P4SMA20CAHM3/I equivalent, this device is selected for robust ESD and surge protection in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O lines, and telecom signal conditioning where bidirectional clamping, low leakage (<1 µA at VWM), and halogen-free RoHS compliance are required.
Technical Context
The P4SMA20CAHM3/I operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping transient overvoltages in both polarities without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response time (<1 ns), while its low incremental surge resistance enables effective energy diversion during 10/1000 µs surges.
Designed for surface-mount assembly on SMA (DO-214AC) footprint, it delivers 400 W peak pulse power at 25 °C with thermal derating above TA = 25 °C (RθJA = 120 °C/W). The HM3 suffix confirms halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction and AEC-Q101 qualification per revision B for high-reliability automotive use.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Standoff Voltage) | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before clamping begins; defines safe operating margin for 24 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 22.2–24.6 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering within 10% tolerance of nominal rating. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 27.7 V at 14.4 A - Maximum voltage seen by protected circuit during 400 W transient; limits stress on downstream ICs like CAN transceivers or microcontrollers. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 µs) - Sustains industry-standard lightning/surge pulses; derates to 300 W above 91 V, but fully applicable at 20 V rating. |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | <1 µA at 20 V - Negligible standby current; avoids signal integrity degradation in high-impedance sensor or analog front-end paths. |
| TJ max. | 150 °C - Enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures without forced cooling. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes (HM3 suffix, revision B) - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per JESD22 standards. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount plastic package with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated molding compound, and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity (peak reflow 260 °C).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal in forward bias; common reference node in bidirectional configuration | No polarity marking; symmetrical terminals enable identical clamping behavior for positive and negative transients. |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal in forward bias; common reference node in bidirectional configuration | Identical physical terminal to Anode; bidirectional operation eliminates functional distinction between pins. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines (e.g., RS-485, CAN FD differential pairs) without polarity concerns. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV line-to-earth) when mounted on 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3) | Validated for automotive powertrain and chassis modules requiring zero-defect reliability and extended temperature operation (-65 °C to +150 °C). |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC J-STD-20 requirements for green manufacturing and end-of-life processing. |
| Low profile SMA package | Height ≤ 2.29 mm enables placement in space-constrained modules such as ADAS camera ECUs and battery management system PCBs. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial Digital I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus or analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) in engine control units against load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping element placed directly at connector entry point to shunt transients before reaching MCU ADC or LIN transceiver. Use Value: Maintains signal fidelity below 27.7 V clamping threshold while surviving 400 W surges-critical for ASIL-B functional safety compliance. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding PLC digital input channels exposed to inductive switching noise from solenoids and contactors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on 24 V DC input lines, coordinated with series current-limiting resistor and optocoupler isolation. Use Value: Sub-1 µA leakage prevents false triggering in high-impedance dry-contact detection circuits; AEC-Q101 grade ensures long-term stability in factory-floor thermal cycles. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer USB Data Line Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers in base station remote radio units from lightning-induced surges on long outdoor cable runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Differential-mode TVS pair (one per line) placed adjacent to transceiver pins to limit common-mode and differential transients simultaneously. Use Value: Symmetrical 27.7 V clamping preserves signal swing margin for ±7 V RS-485 standard while meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 3 surge immunity. |
Use Scenario: ESD protection for USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in automotive infotainment head units subjected to IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV contact discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp integrated into USB connector subcircuit to suppress ESD without degrading 480 Mbps signal integrity. Use Value: Junction capacitance <100 pF (typ.) at 0 V ensures minimal signal rise-time degradation; HM3 halogen-free construction supports consumer brand sustainability mandates. |
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 | Same VWM (20 V) and VC (27.7 V), but SMB package (DO-214AA); 600 W PPPM rating; higher RθJA (100 °C/W) due to larger thermal mass. | Better suited for higher-energy surges but requires larger PCB area; not AEC-Q101 qualified in standard variants. | Select SMBJ20CA only if 600 W pulse handling is mandatory and board space allows DO-214AA footprint. |
| 1.5KE20CA | Through-hole TO-218 package; same VWM/VC specs; 1500 W PPPM; higher IFSM (200 A); no AEC-Q101 qualification; lead-free but not halogen-free. | Targeted at legacy industrial power supplies and mains-connected equipment-not suitable for automated SMT lines or automotive under-hood use. | Choose 1.5KE20CA only for through-hole prototyping or high-surge legacy systems where SMT compatibility and halogen-free compliance are non-critical. |
Compared with SMBJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, P4SMA20CAHM3/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free construction, and SMA footprint-making it the only drop-in solution for automotive SMT production where reliability, regulatory compliance, and assembly efficiency are jointly constrained.
Availability
P4SMA20CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial I/O hardening, and telecom line interface applications requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for P4SMA20CAHM3/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, MOSFETs, and passive components with emphasis on high-reliability, automotive-qualified, and green-material solutions.
The P4SMA Series is engineered for robust transient suppression in harsh environments-specifically targeting automotive electronics, industrial controls, and communications infrastructure where consistent clamping performance and AEC-Q101 validation are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA20CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA20CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V at 14.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM), measured under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The P4SMA20CAHM3/I maintains this clamping performance consistently due to its glass-passivated junction and low incremental surge resistance.
Is P4SMA20CAHM3/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, P4SMA20CAHM3/I is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix, revision B) and designed for automotive use. It meets stress test requirements including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD robustness per JESD22 standards. Its 150 °C maximum junction temperature, halogen-free construction, and MSL Level 1 rating make P4SMA20CAHM3/I appropriate for engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS modules.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA20CAHM3/I?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA20CAHM3/I denotes a bidirectional configuration-meaning the device provides symmetrical transient voltage suppression for both positive and negative polarity surges. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA20A), P4SMA20CAHM3/I has no cathode marking and functions identically in either orientation, making it ideal for AC signal lines, differential buses, and floating grounds where polarity cannot be assumed.
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) and why is it critical for P4SMA20CAHM3/I selection?
The standoff voltage (VWM) of P4SMA20CAHM3/I is 20 V-the maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device can withstand without entering conduction. This parameter is critical because it must exceed the normal operating voltage of the protected line (e.g., 12 V or 24 V automotive systems) while leaving sufficient margin below the breakdown voltage (22.2 V min). Selecting P4SMA20CAHM3/I ensures reliable blocking during steady-state operation and precise clamping only during transients.
How does the HM3 suffix affect the compliance and reliability of P4SMA20CAHM3/I?
The HM3 suffix in P4SMA20CAHM3/I indicates halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction and AEC-Q101 qualification per revision B. This means the device uses bromine- and chlorine-free flame retardants in its molding compound, passes JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing, and has undergone automotive-specific reliability validation-including 1000-hour high-temperature reverse bias and -65 °C to +150 °C thermal cycling. These attributes directly enhance P4SMA20CAHM3/I's suitability for safety-critical and environmentally regulated deployments.
P4SMA20CAHM3/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):
- 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/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA20CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA20CAHM3/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/I reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA20CAHM3/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/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA20CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA20CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA20CAHM3/I?
P4SMA20CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA20CAHM3/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/I?
For technical support, including P4SMA20CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA20CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA20CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA20CAHM3/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/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA20CAHM3/I?
All P4SMA20CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA20CAHM3/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/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA20CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA20CAHM3/I Tags

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