Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61
- Part No.:
- P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 5.8VWM 10.5VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,697
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Product details
Overview
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, with 6.8 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 5.8 V stand-off voltage (VWM), and 400 W peak pulse power rating at 10/1000 µs waveform. It provides low-clamping-voltage protection for signal lines in automotive sensor units, industrial I/O interfaces, and telecom data ports.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 datasheet, P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 pinout, P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 application, or P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 equivalent, this device delivers verified bidirectional clamping performance, AEC-Q101 qualification (via HM3 suffix), halogen-free RoHS compliance, and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity - critical for high-reliability automated SMT assembly in harsh environments.
Technical Context
The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 operates as a symmetrical avalanche diode, exhibiting identical electrical characteristics in both forward and reverse directions due to its bidirectional construction. Its glass-passivated junction enables fast response time (<1 ns) and stable clamping under repetitive transients.
It is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 38.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and clamps to ≤10.5 V at that current. Thermal resistance is 120 °C/W (junction-to-ambient) on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, with maximum junction temperature of +150 °C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 6.45 V / 7.14 V at 10 mA test current - defines precise avalanche onset threshold for reliable overvoltage triggering |
| VWM | 5.8 V - maximum continuous working voltage before leakage exceeds 1000 µA; sets safe operating margin below VBR |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤10.5 V at 38.1 A - clamping voltage during 10/1000 µs surge; determines protected circuit's maximum transient exposure |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak surge power handling capability; supports robust protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges |
| IPPM | 38.1 A - peak surge current capacity; enables protection of 24 V industrial buses and 5 V logic interfaces |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature; allows operation in under-hood automotive and industrial enclosures |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - industry-standard surface-mount outline with 0.208" x 0.157" footprint and matte tin-plated leads |
Pinout & Package
SMA (DO-214AC) package: molded plastic case with two coplanar terminals; no polarity marking for bidirectional devices; meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating and J-STD-002 solderability requirements.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point in forward bias | One terminal of symmetrical structure; interchangeable with cathode in bidirectional operation |
| Cathode | Current exit point in forward bias | Second terminal; functionally identical to anode under reverse surge - no marking required |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping symmetry | Identical VBR, VC, and IPPM in both polarities - eliminates need for orientation-aware layout in AC-coupled or differential lines |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Qualified per HM3 suffix - validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HAST, and mechanical shock |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | M3 suffix indicates compliant molding compound and matte tin plating - satisfies IPC-1752a environmental reporting and EU ELV requirements |
| MSL Level 1 rating | No floor life limitation; safe for reflow at peak 260 °C without baking - reduces manufacturing overhead in high-volume SMT lines |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Enables tight VC/VBR ratio (1.6×) - minimizes voltage overshoot during fast transients like ESD or inductive kickback |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC Analog Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor front-ends (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across differential pair or supply rail to clamp ±200 V transients within nanoseconds. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream op-amps and microcontrollers by limiting voltage to ≤10.5 V during 38.1 A surge. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 4–20 mA current-loop inputs and 0–10 V analog channels in programmable logic controllers exposed to field wiring surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS shunting induced transients on input terminals before signal conditioning circuitry. Use Value: Maintains measurement integrity by holding input voltage below ADC overvoltage threshold during 1 kV/500 A surge events. |
| Telecom Data Line Protection | Consumer USB Port ESD Clamp |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485/RS-232 transceivers in base stations and network switches from lightning-induced surges on long cable runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS on line side of isolation barrier, coordinated with secondary-side MOVs. Use Value: Absorbs up to 400 W of surge energy while maintaining <1 nA leakage at 5.8 V - avoids false triggering in low-power receivers. |
Use Scenario: Integrated ESD protection on USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in smartphones and peripherals per IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 (±15 kV air). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (<50 pF) bidirectional clamp placed directly at connector to divert ESD before PHY IC. Use Value: Clamps ESD pulses to <12 V within <1 ns, preserving signal integrity and preventing PHY reset or data corruption. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ6.8CA | Same VBR (6.45–7.14 V), but SMB package (DO-214AA); 600 W PPPM; higher thermal mass | Better suited for higher-energy surges; larger footprint requires PCB real estate trade-off | Select when surge energy exceeds 400 W or board space permits larger package |
| 1.5KE6.8CA | Through-hole DO-15; same VBR/VC; 1500 W PPPM; higher IPPM (217 A) | Designed for legacy through-hole assembly; not suitable for automated SMT production | Choose only for repair, prototyping, or non-SMT systems where manual assembly is acceptable |
Compared with SMBJ6.8CA and 1.5KE6.8CA, the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 offers optimal balance of SMT compatibility, AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free compliance, and 400 W surge handling - making it the preferred choice for new automotive and industrial designs requiring automated manufacturing and environmental compliance.
Availability
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC analog inputs, and telecom data line protection requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.
The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered specifically for high-speed, high-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and communications infrastructure where bidirectional clamping and AEC-Q101 validation are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 clamps to a maximum of 10.5 V at its rated peak pulse current of 38.1 A (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured per standard test conditions and ensures downstream ICs see limited overvoltage during surge events. The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 maintains this clamping performance symmetrically in both directions due to its bidirectional design.
Is the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 carries the HM3 suffix, indicating halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified construction. It has undergone stress testing per AEC-Q101 including temperature cycling, HAST, and mechanical shock - validating its suitability for under-hood and chassis-mounted automotive electronics. The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is explicitly listed in Vishay's AEC-Q101 qualified product matrix.
Does the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 require polarity-aware PCB placement?
No. The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is a bidirectional TVS diode with symmetrical electrical characteristics in both directions, and its SMA (DO-214AC) package carries no polarity marking. This eliminates orientation constraints during automated placement and simplifies layout for AC-coupled or differential signal paths. The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 functions identically regardless of terminal assignment.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation of the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61?
The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 has a maximum steady-state power dissipation (PD) of 3.3 W at TA = 50 °C on an infinite heatsink. In typical PCB mounting (0.2" × 0.2" copper pads per terminal), derating applies above 25 °C ambient per Figure 2 in the datasheet. This rating governs continuous leakage-based heating, not transient surge handling. The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is not intended for sustained DC power dissipation.
How does the P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 compare to unidirectional variants like P4SMA6.8A-M3/61?
The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 differs from the unidirectional P4SMA6.8A-M3/61 solely in polarity configuration: "CA" denotes bidirectional operation with identical parameters in both directions, while "A" is unidirectional with cathode band marking. Both share identical VBR, VC, PPPM, and package. The P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is selected for AC signals, differential pairs, or any application where voltage reversal must be suppressed without polarity dependency.
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 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:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 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 P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61?
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 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 P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61?
For technical support, including P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 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 P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61?
All P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61, 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 P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4SMA6.8CA-M3/61 Tags

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