My Inquiry
My Account
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SA120C
;;2.jpg)
- Part No.:
- SA120C
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA120C.pdf
- Description:
- 500W, 148V, BIDIRECTIONAL, TVS
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:9,308
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA120C from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 500W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode with 120V working stand-off voltage, 133–163V breakdown voltage at 1mA test current, and 214V maximum clamping voltage at 2.4A peak pulse current. It features sub-1ps response time, <1μA reverse leakage above 10V, and DO-204AC (DO-15) package for automotive-grade ESD and surge protection in power supply rails.
For engineers reviewing the SA120C datasheet, SA120C pinout, SA120C application, or SA120C equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin vs. protected IC VDD, junction temperature derating above 25°C, unidirectional polarity marking, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive use cases.
Technical Context
The SA120C operates as a silicon avalanche diode configured for unidirectional transient suppression, triggered when reverse voltage exceeds its 133–163V breakdown range. Its low dynamic impedance ensures rapid clamping to ≤214V under 10/1000μs 500W surges, limiting energy dissipation in downstream circuitry.
Designed for single-polarity DC line protection, it exhibits no bidirectional conduction - cathode band marking defines polarity, and forward voltage remains ≤3.5V at 35A surge. Thermal performance supports continuous operation up to TJ = 175°C with derated peak power above 25°C ambient.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 120 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins |
| VBR @ IT=1mA | 133–163 V - Breakdown threshold range defining reliable turn-on under transient stress |
| VC @ IPPM=2.4A | 214 V - Clamped voltage during 10/1000μs surge, limiting stress on protected ICs |
| PPK | 500 W - Peak surge power handling per single non-repetitive 10/1000μs pulse |
| IR @ VWM | <1 μA - Negligible leakage current at rated stand-off voltage, minimizing standby power loss |
| TJ max | 175 °C - Maximum junction temperature enabling high-temperature automotive under-hood deployment |
| Response time | <1.0 ps - Sub-picosecond avalanche initiation ensures protection before system-level damage occurs |
Pinout & Package
SA120C uses the DO-204AC (DO-15) axial-leaded package with cathode band marking indicating the cathode terminal. Leads are pure tin plated and solderable per J-STD-002; molding compound meets UL 94V-0.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Ground-reference terminal | Connected to system ground or low-side return path; carries full surge current to earth |
| Cathode | Protected-line terminal | Connected to the line being protected (e.g., 12V rail); blocks normal operation but avalanches during overvoltage |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified option available | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics requiring reliability under thermal cycling and vibration |
| 500W peak pulse power (10/1000μs) | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 surges without degradation |
| Clamping ratio VC/VBR ≈ 1.35 | Low overvoltage margin ensures robust protection headroom for 120V nominal systems while avoiding false triggering |
| RoHS & halogen-free (IEC 61249-2-21) | Complies with automotive environmental standards and enables lead-free reflow assembly compatibility |
| DO-204AC mechanical robustness | 0.4g weight and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance support long-term reliability in high-vibration environments |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial DC Power Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 12V/24V battery-fed ECUs exposed to load dump and alternator transients per ISO 7637-2. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between power input and ground to clamp surges before they reach LDOs or microcontrollers. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤214V, preserving 3.3V/5V logic supply integrity and preventing latch-up in downstream ASICs. | Use Scenario: 48V telecom or industrial PLC power entry subjected to lightning-induced surges and switching noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression device on main DC input, coordinated with upstream fuses and downstream π-filters. Use Value: Absorbs 500W pulses without failure, maintaining system uptime and eliminating need for oversized bulk capacitors to absorb energy. |
| LED Driver Overvoltage Clamp | ESD-Sensitive Sensor Interface |
Use Scenario: Constant-current LED driver inputs in streetlight or automotive lighting subject to inductive kickback from relay switching. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting shunt element across driver input terminals to divert inductive spikes away from controller ICs. Use Value: Sub-1ps response prevents voltage overshoot beyond MOSFET drain-source rating, extending driver lifetime. | Use Scenario: CAN/LIN bus or analog sensor lines (e.g., pressure, temperature) routed near high-noise zones in vehicle cabins. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-entry protection diode on signal line to ground, suppressing EFT bursts and contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4. Use Value: <1μA leakage avoids signal offset errors in precision analog front-ends while clamping transients to safe levels. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ120A | Same DO-214AC package, 120V VWM, but 220V VC @ 2.3A; slightly higher clamping voltage and lower IPPM | Compatible in board space but requires verification of clamping margin for 120V-rail ICs with tight VDS ratings | Select if sourcing flexibility is prioritized and clamping headroom ≥10V is acceptable |
| Vishay 1.5KE120A | Higher PPK = 1500W, DO-201AD package, 120V VWM, 193V VC @ 7.8A; larger footprint and higher surge capacity | Suitable for heavy-duty industrial surge events but over-specified for typical automotive ESD/clamp needs | Choose only when legacy 1.5KE footprint reuse or >1kW surge immunity is required |
Compared with SMAJ120A and 1.5KE120A, SA120C offers tighter clamping (214V vs. 220V/193V), smaller DO-15 footprint, and AEC-Q101 qualification path - making it optimal for space-constrained, automotive-grade 120V rail protection where precise voltage limiting is critical.
Availability
SA120C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial DC power supplies, LED lighting drivers, and ESD-sensitive sensor interfaces requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.
Supply support for SA120C 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, rectifiers, and MOSFETs for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.
The SA Series TVS diodes are engineered for high-reliability transient suppression in harsh environments, with emphasis on AEC-Q101 compliance, low clamping ratios, and robust surge endurance in compact DO-204AC packages.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of SA120C?
SA120C is a unidirectional TVS diode with cathode band marking indicating the cathode terminal. It conducts only in reverse bias during overvoltage events and blocks forward current like a standard rectifier. This configuration makes SA120C suitable for DC power line protection where polarity is fixed and reverse conduction must be prevented during normal operation.
Does SA120C meet AEC-Q101 requirements?
SA120C itself is not AEC-Q101 qualified per the provided documentation; however, the SA120H variant (with "H" suffix) is explicitly designated as AEC-Q101 qualified. Engineers requiring automotive qualification must specify SA120H instead of SA120C, as the base SA120C part lacks the required stress testing and traceability documentation for automotive use.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SA120C under standard surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage of SA120C is 214 V at 2.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the 10/1000μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during a standardized surge event - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Can SA120C be used in bidirectional signal line protection?
No, SA120C is strictly unidirectional and unsuitable for bidirectional signal lines such as USB, CAN, or audio interfaces. For bidirectional protection, engineers must select the SA120CA variant (with "CA" suffix), which provides symmetrical breakdown in both directions and is designed specifically for AC or dual-polarity signal paths.
What is the thermal derating behavior of SA120C above 25°C ambient?
SA120C's peak pulse power (500W) is specified at TA = 25°C and must be linearly derated above that temperature per the Pulse Derating Curve (Fig.2). At 75°C ambient, its usable peak power drops to approximately 350W; at 125°C, it falls below 200W. Continuous power dissipation remains limited to 3W at TL = 75°C with specified PCB pad layout.
SA120C Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- SA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 120V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 133V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 214V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 2.4A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 500W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
SA120C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA120C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA120C 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 SA120C reliable?
The price and inventory of SA120C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA120C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA120C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA120C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA120C?
SA120C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA120C 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 SA120C?
For technical support, including SA120C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA120C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA120C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA120C 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 SA120C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA120C?
All SA120C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA120C, 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 SA120C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA120C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA120C Tags
-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi
-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated
-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi
-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated
-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated
-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated
-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi
-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated
-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated
-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.
-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage
-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
