Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H
- Part No.:
- P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 5.8VWM 10.5VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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 6.8 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 5.8 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 38.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 10.5 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces in automotive and industrial electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H datasheet, P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H pinout, P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H application, or P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), polarity behavior, and real-world protection use cases - all confirmed from Vishay's official P4SMA Series specification document (Rev. 09-Jan-2024, Doc. #88367).
Technical Context
The P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode with symmetrical clamping in both polarities, enabling transient suppression on AC-coupled or floating signal paths without polarity constraints. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and low leakage (<1000 µA at VWM), while the 10/1000 µs waveform rating reflects standardized surge immunity per IEC 61000-4-5.
Designed for surface-mount assembly on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, it delivers 400 W peak pulse power at TA = 25 °C, derating linearly above 25 °C per Fig. 2, with a maximum junction temperature of +150 °C and thermal resistance of 120 °C/W (junction-to-ambient). It meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 and is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 6.45 V / 7.14 V at IT = 10 mA - defines reliable avalanche initiation threshold under test conditions |
| VWM | 5.80 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage before significant leakage begins |
| IPPM | 38.1 A (10/1000 µs) - peak surge current the device safely clamps without failure |
| VC | 10.5 V at IPPM - clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case transient |
| PPPM | 400 W (10/1000 µs, duty cycle 0.01 %) - transient energy handling capacity under standard surge waveform |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - thermal resistance determining junction temperature rise under power dissipation |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - absolute maximum operating junction temperature defining reliability envelope |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking - terminals are symmetric and interchangeable. Cathode/anode designation does not apply; both ends function identically under reverse or forward bias during transient events.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (bidirectional) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals serve as symmetrical avalanche junction endpoints - no fixed polarity; clamps voltage excursions in either direction |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables protection on AC, differential, or floating lines without orientation constraints during PCB placement |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock per stress test requirements |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %), low leakage (<1000 µA), and long-term parameter stability under thermal stress |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow at peak temperature up to 260 °C without preconditioning or baking |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Provides robust immunity against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3/4 surges (e.g., 1 kV/42 Ω, 2 kV/12 Ω) on 12 V/24 V systems |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface Protection | Industrial CAN Bus Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) connected to microcontrollers in engine control units exposed to load dump and inductive switching noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping transient overvoltage on differential or single-ended sensor lines before reaching ADC input or op-amp front-end. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤10.5 V during 38.1 A surges, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 5 V/3.3 V signal chain components. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding CAN_H and CAN_L lines in vehicle body control modules subjected to ESD and coupled transients from nearby solenoid drivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (typ. <100 pF), fast-response TVS placed across differential bus pair to clamp common-mode surges without distorting 1 Mbps CAN signaling. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping to 10.5 V within nanoseconds while surviving repeated 400 W pulses per ISO 16750-2. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD Protection | Telecom Power Rail Clamp |
Use Scenario: Secondary-level ESD protection on USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in set-top boxes or smart displays, downstream of primary polymer TVS. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting bidirectional clamp absorbing ±15 kV contact discharge (IEC 61000-4-2) before reaching USB transceiver PHY. Use Value: Achieves sub-100 ns response with 10.5 V clamping, keeping transceiver stress below absolute maximum ratings during compliance testing. |
Use Scenario: Overvoltage clamp on 5 V or 12 V DC power rails feeding FPGAs or DSPs in telecom base station boards exposed to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated (5.8 V) TVS shunting excess energy from rail during induced transients, coordinated with upstream fuse or POL converter OVP. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W surges without thermal runaway, limiting rail excursion to 10.5 V and preserving downstream logic supply integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ6.8CA | Higher PPPM = 600 W, larger SMB (DO-214AA) package, RθJA = 100 °C/W | Better suited for higher-energy surges; requires larger PCB footprint and different pad layout | Select when system-level surge tests exceed 400 W or when thermal margin is critical under sustained ambient >70 °C |
| 1.5SMC6.8CA | Same VBR/VC, PPPM = 1500 W, larger SMC (DO-214AB) package, RθJA = 60 °C/W | Designed for high-power industrial mains-side protection; overqualified for signal-line use | Choose only if board space allows and legacy designs mandate SMC footprint compatibility |
Compared with SMBJ6.8CA and 1.5SMC6.8CA, the P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H offers optimal balance of compact SMA footprint, AEC-Q101 qualification, and 400 W capability - making it preferred for space-constrained automotive and industrial PCBs where MSL Level 1 and RoHS-compliant HE3 suffix are mandatory.
Availability
P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial CAN bus nodes, consumer USB port hardening, and telecom DC rail protection requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 traceability, and RoHS-compliant manufacturing.
Supply support for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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, precision, and automotive-grade qualification.
The P4SMA Series is engineered for high-reliability transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive electronics, industrial controls, and communications infrastructure where AEC-Q101 validation and consistent clamping performance are essential.
FAQ
What does the "CA" suffix mean in P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient voltage clamping in both polarities, with no cathode/anode distinction. This enables use on AC-coupled lines, differential buses like CAN or RS-485, and floating sensor outputs without orientation concerns during automated placement. The P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H exhibits identical VBR, VC, and IPPM in either direction, as confirmed in Vishay's Electrical Characteristics table (Doc. #88367, p.2).
Is P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H AEC-Q101 qualified?
Yes, P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, as indicated by the "HE3" suffix and confirmed in the Ordering Information table (p.3) and Features section (p.1) of Vishay's P4SMA Series datasheet. It meets stress test requirements for automotive applications including temperature cycling, high-temperature operating life, and mechanical shock - making it suitable for under-hood and body-control module deployments where reliability under thermal and vibration stress is critical. The P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H carries full traceability and qualification documentation per AEC-Q101 Rev. D.
What is the maximum clamping voltage (VC) of P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H at rated IPPM?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H is 10.5 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 38.1 A, measured under the standardized 10/1000 µs double-exponential surge waveform. This value is specified in the Electrical Characteristics table (p.2) and defines the highest voltage the protected circuit will experience during a worst-case transient event. For a 5 V system, this clamping level provides ~110 % headroom above nominal rail, ensuring safe operation of downstream logic and interface ICs without overstress.
Does P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H have polarity markings on the package?
No, P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H has no polarity markings on the SMA (DO-214AC) package because it is a bidirectional device - both terminals are functionally identical and interchangeable. Unlike unidirectional P4SMA variants (e.g., P4SMA6.8A), which feature a cathode band, the "CA" version omits any marking since avalanche conduction occurs symmetrically regardless of voltage polarity. This simplifies automated optical inspection and eliminates orientation errors during pick-and-place, as confirmed in the Mechanical Data section (p.1) of the Vishay datasheet.
What is the thermal resistance (RθJA) of P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H, and how does it affect layout?
The junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H is 120 °C/W, measured on the minimum recommended 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pad per terminal, per Vishay's Thermal Characteristics table (p.3). This value means each watt of transient power dissipated raises the junction temperature by 120 °C above ambient - so for a 400 W 10/1000 µs pulse (duration <1 ms), thermal mass dominates over steady-state conduction. Layout must follow Vishay's pad dimensions precisely; reducing pad size increases RθJA and risks exceeding the +150 °C TJ max., potentially degrading clamping consistency in repetitive surge scenarios.
P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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):
- 5.8V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 6.45V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 10.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 38.1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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 P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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 P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H?
P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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 P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H?
For technical support, including P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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 P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H?
All P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA6.8CAHE3_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 P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA6.8CAHE3_A/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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