Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA68CA-E3/5A
- Part No.:
- P4SMA68CA-E3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA68CA-E3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 58.1VWM 92VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA68CA-E3/5A 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 68 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 64.6–71.4 V at IT = 1.0 mA), 92.0 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 4.3 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 400 W peak pulse power rating with a 10/1000 µs waveform - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in industrial and automotive electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA68CA-E3/5A datasheet, P4SMA68CA-E3/5A pinout, P4SMA68CA-E3/5A application, or P4SMA68CA-E3/5A equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, bidirectional clamping behavior, SMA (DO-214AC) package details, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), and AEC-Q101-qualified alternatives for automotive-grade surge protection design.
Technical Context
The P4SMA68CA-E3/5A operates as a symmetrical bidirectional TVS, exhibiting identical clamping characteristics in both polarities due to its back-to-back Zener junction structure. Its 68 V nominal breakdown voltage enables robust protection of 48 V and 60 V systems against ESD, lightning-induced surges, and inductive switching transients.
It delivers 400 W peak pulse power (derated to 300 W above 91 V) under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform conditions, with low incremental surge resistance ensuring minimal voltage overshoot during transient events. The device is rated for operation from −65 °C to +150 °C and meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 64.6 V / 71.4 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise voltage threshold where clamping begins in either polarity |
| VWM | 58.1 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage; ensures no conduction during normal 48–60 V system operation |
| VC @ IPPM | 92.0 V at 4.3 A - clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case 400 W transient event |
| PPPM | 400 W (10/1000 µs) - peak surge energy absorption capability without failure; derates to 300 W above 91 V |
| IPPM | 4.3 A - peak current the device safely shunts during standardized 10/1000 µs surge waveform |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - junction-to-ambient thermal resistance; determines temperature rise under sustained power dissipation |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum allowable junction temperature; supports operation in under-hood automotive environments |
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. No polarity marking on bidirectional variants.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Terminal A | One side of symmetrical bidirectional junction; connects to line being protected (e.g., CAN_H or RS-485 A) |
| Cathode | Terminal K | Other side of symmetrical bidirectional junction; connects to same line (e.g., CAN_L or RS-485 B) - forms differential clamp across line pair |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of differential signal lines (e.g., CAN, RS-485) without polarity concerns |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Withstands high-energy transients common in 12/24/48 V industrial and automotive subsystems |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.43) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream ICs compared to higher-ratio suppressors |
| AEC-Q101 qualified option | Available as P4SMA68CAHE3_A - validated for automotive under-hood applications per stress test requirements |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Allows unlimited floor life and standard reflow without baking; simplifies SMT manufacturing |
Applications
| Automotive CAN Bus Protection | Industrial RS-485 Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN_H/CAN_L lines in body control modules against load dump and ESD events per ISO 7637-2 and ISO 10605. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed across differential bus pair to limit transient excursions below IC absolute maximum ratings. Use Value: Maintains CAN signal integrity during 400 W surges while operating within 58.1 V working range - compatible with 5 V CAN transceivers and 12 V supply domains. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485 transceivers in factory automation PLCs exposed to motor drive noise and ground bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Differential-line TVS suppressing common-mode and differential-mode transients before they reach the transceiver's input stage. Use Value: 92.0 V clamping voltage ensures transceiver inputs remain within safe operating area during 4.3 A surge events on long cable runs. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input | Telecom PoE Line Protection |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side transient suppression on 48 V output rails of AC/DC adapters for smart home devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS absorbing inductive kickback from DC-DC converter feedback loops or relay coils. Use Value: 58.1 V VWM allows stable operation across full 48 V ±10% regulation window while clamping spikes to ≤92.0 V. |
Use Scenario: Protecting Power over Ethernet (PoE) data lines (pins 1–2, 3–6) from lightning-induced surges on outdoor IP cameras. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamp installed between differential pairs to prevent damage to PHY ICs during fast-rising transients. Use Value: Symmetrical response ensures equal protection regardless of surge polarity; 120 °C/W RθJA supports reliable operation in sealed enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ64CA | Higher VBR (60.8–67.2 V), lower VC (103 V @ 3.5 A), SMB package (larger footprint) | Less precise 68 V clamping; requires PCB layout change due to larger SMB (DO-214AA) footprint | Select when higher surge current margin (3.5 A vs. 4.3 A) and lower clamping voltage tolerance are prioritized over board space |
| 1.5KE68CA | Through-hole TO-218 package, same VBR/VC, 1500 W rating but slower response due to higher junction capacitance | Not suitable for high-speed data lines; limited to power rail or low-frequency signal protection | Choose only for legacy through-hole designs or where 1500 W peak power is mandatory and board space permits axial leaded mounting |
Compared with P4SMA68CA-E3/5A, SMBJ64CA offers tighter VBR tolerance but demands more PCB area, while 1.5KE68CA sacrifices speed and SMT compatibility for raw power handling - making P4SMA68CA-E3/5A optimal for space-constrained, high-speed differential interface protection.
Availability
P4SMA68CA-E3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive CAN bus protection, industrial RS-485 interfaces, consumer power adapter outputs, and telecom PoE line protection requiring stable component supply and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A 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, power efficiency, and AEC-Q qualification.
The P4SMA series was developed specifically for surface-mount transient suppression in space-constrained, high-reliability applications - delivering consistent 400 W surge capability in the compact SMA (DO-214AC) package.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage range of the P4SMA68CA-E3/5A?
The P4SMA68CA-E3/5A has a specified breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 64.6 V to 71.4 V at a test current of 1.0 mA. This range reflects manufacturing tolerance and ensures consistent clamping behavior across units. The value is measured in both directions due to its bidirectional construction, and it directly determines the onset point of transient suppression for protected circuits.
Is the P4SMA68CA-E3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
Yes - the P4SMA68CA-E3/5A is RoHS-compliant and offered in an AEC-Q101-qualified variant (P4SMA68CAHE3_A). While the base P4SMA68CA-E3/5A itself is commercial-grade, its electrical specs, thermal rating (TJ max = +150 °C), and MSL Level 1 compliance make it suitable for non-safety-critical automotive subsystems such as infotainment power rails and body electronics when validated per system-level requirements.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA68CA-E3/5A?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA68CA-E3/5A denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device functions identically in both polarities, with matched breakdown and clamping characteristics across its two terminals. This distinguishes it from unidirectional variants (e.g., P4SMA68A), which conduct only in reverse bias and require correct orientation during placement.
How does the P4SMA68CA-E3/5A compare to the P4SMA68A in terms of application use?
The P4SMA68CA-E3/5A is bidirectional and suited for differential or AC-coupled signal lines (e.g., CAN, RS-485), whereas the unidirectional P4SMA68A is intended for DC power rail or single-ended signal protection with defined polarity. Their VBR, VC, and PPPM values are nearly identical, but the CA version eliminates polarity marking and installation errors in symmetric topologies.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P4SMA68CA-E3/5A under surge conditions?
The P4SMA68CA-E3/5A exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 92.0 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 4.3 A under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value represents the highest voltage that will appear across the protected line during a worst-case transient, ensuring downstream components remain within their absolute maximum voltage ratings.
P4SMA68CA-E3/5A 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):
- 58.1V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 64.6V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 92V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 4.3A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA68CA-E3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A 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 P4SMA68CA-E3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA68CA-E3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A?
P4SMA68CA-E3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA68CA-E3/5A 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 P4SMA68CA-E3/5A?
For technical support, including P4SMA68CA-E3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA68CA-E3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA68CA-E3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA68CA-E3/5A 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 P4SMA68CA-E3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA68CA-E3/5A?
All P4SMA68CA-E3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA68CA-E3/5A, 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 P4SMA68CA-E3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA68CA-E3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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