Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SA120CAH
- Part No.:
- SA120CAH
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA120CAH.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 120VWM 193VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,974
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA120CAH from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional AEC-Q101-qualified transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, designed for automotive and industrial surge protection. It features 120 V working stand-off voltage (VWM), 133–163 V breakdown voltage (VBR @ 1 mA), 2.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM), 214 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at IPPM, and 500 W peak pulse power rating at 10/1000 μs waveform.
For engineers reviewing the SA120CAH datasheet, SA120CAH pinout, SA120CAH application, or SA120CAH equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability ESD and EFT immunity in automotive powertrain control units, battery management systems, and 12 V/24 V DC supply rails where bidirectional clamping, low leakage (<1 μA @ 120 V), and AEC-Q101 qualification are mandatory.
Technical Context
The SA120CAH implements a silicon avalanche diode structure optimized for fast transient suppression in both polarities. Its bidirectional configuration enables symmetric clamping without external polarity reversal, supporting compliance with ISO 7637-2 and IEC 61000-4-4/5 standards. The device operates across –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature range and maintains stable VBR temperature coefficient of 162 mV/°C.
It delivers 214 V clamping voltage at 2.4 A peak pulse current under 10/1000 μs waveform, with sub-nanosecond response time (<5 ns) and <1 μA reverse leakage at rated VWM. The DO-204AC package supports lead-free reflow soldering per J-STD-002 and meets UL 94V-0 flammability rating.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 120 V - Maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without clamping |
| VBR min/max | 133 V / 163 V @ 1 mA - Ensures reliable triggering above system operating voltage with margin |
| VC @ IPPM | 214 V @ 2.4 A - Limits transient voltage seen by downstream ICs during 10/1000 μs surge |
| PPK | 500 W - Sustains standardized automotive load dump and inductive switching surges |
| IR @ VWM | <1 μA - Negligible standby power loss and signal integrity impact in high-impedance circuits |
| TJ max | +175 °C - Enables placement near hot components (e.g., power MOSFETs, engine ECUs) |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive underhood and powertrain applications per stress test requirements |
Pinout & Package
SA120CAH is housed in a DO-204AC (DO-15) axial-leaded package with cathode band marking omitted due to bidirectional functionality. Leads are pure tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002, and meet JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche junction | No polarity dependency - either terminal serves as input/output for transient energy diversion |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Surge current path | Both leads conduct equal peak pulse current (2.4 A) during clamping in either direction |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating DC lines without polarity concerns |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive use including temperature cycling, HTRB, and mechanical shock per stress test plan |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.37) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on protected ICs compared to higher-ratio TVS devices |
| UL 94V-0 molding compound | Prevents flame propagation in enclosed automotive modules and battery enclosures |
| Junction capacitance <100 pF | Preserves signal integrity in data lines up to ~10 MHz without filtering distortion |
Applications
| Automotive Power Supply Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V/24 V power rails in engine control units (ECUs) against ISO 7637-2 pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b, and load dump transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element placed upstream of LDOs and microcontrollers to limit rail voltage excursion during surges. Use Value: Clamps 214 V at 2.4 A, ensuring downstream ICs see no more than 214 V during 10/1000 μs transients - well below typical 28 V automotive IC absolute maximum ratings. | Use Scenario: Shielding analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) in PLC I/O modules from EFT bursts and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional shunt placed at connector entry point to divert transients before reaching op-amp front-end. Use Value: Sub-5 ns response and <1 μA leakage preserve signal fidelity while suppressing ±2 kV EFT (IEC 61000-4-4) without loading the sensor output. |
| DC Motor Drive Transient Suppression | On-Board Charger (OBC) Input Stage Protection |
Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from brushed DC motors in automotive HVAC actuators and seat controls. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS connected across motor terminals to clamp reverse EMF spikes during PWM switching. Use Value: Withstands 70 A non-repetitive forward surge (IFSM) and clamps at 214 V, preventing MOSFET drain-source breakdown during commutation. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding AC-DC rectifier stage inputs in EV on-board chargers exposed to grid surges and lightning-induced transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end TVS on DC bus prior to PFC controller to absorb line-to-line and line-to-ground surges. Use Value: 500 W peak power rating and 175 °C max junction temperature support continuous operation in thermally constrained OBC 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ120CA | Same VWM (120 V), lower PPK (400 W), SMA package (surface-mount) | Limited to PCB space-constrained designs; lacks AEC-Q101 qualification | Select when board area is critical and automotive qualification is not required |
| P6SMB120CA | Identical VWM and PPK (500 W), same DO-204AC package, but not AEC-Q101 qualified | Suitable for industrial/commercial systems only; no automotive stress validation | Choose for cost-sensitive non-automotive applications requiring identical form factor and electrical specs |
Compared with SMAJ120CA and P6SMB120CA, SA120CAH uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, 500 W surge capability, and DO-204AC through-hole robustness - making it the only option qualified for under-hood automotive deployment where thermal cycling and mechanical vibration reliability are non-negotiable.
Availability
SA120CAH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial motor drive development, and EV on-board charger production requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.
Supply support for SA120CAH 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, and rectifiers, with global distribution and AEC-Q101-compliant production lines.
The SA Series is TSC's automotive-grade transient voltage suppressor family, engineered specifically for ISO 7637-2 and IEC 61000-4-5 compliance in harsh environment applications including powertrain, chassis, and body electronics.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SA120CAH at its rated peak pulse current?
The SA120CAH has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 214 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 2.4 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures predictable overvoltage limiting for protected circuitry downstream of the device.
Is SA120CAH unidirectional or bidirectional, and how is polarity indicated?
SA120CAH is a bidirectional TVS diode, meaning it provides symmetrical clamping in both voltage polarities. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SA120A), it has no cathode band marking - the DO-204AC package is polarity-agnostic, and either lead may be connected to either side of the protected line.
Does SA120CAH meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, SA120CAH is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by its "H" suffix in the ordering code and documentation in TSC's SA Series datasheet (Version L2105). This qualification covers stress tests including HTGB, HTRB, temperature cycling, and mechanical shock - validating suitability for automotive powertrain and body control modules.
What is the maximum operating junction temperature for SA120CAH?
The SA120CAH has a maximum junction temperature (TJ max) of +175 °C, enabling reliable operation in high-temperature environments such as engine compartments, power inverters, and battery management systems. Derating curves in the datasheet define safe power dissipation limits above 25 °C ambient.
How does SA120CAH compare to SA120A in terms of electrical performance?
SA120CAH is bidirectional with VBR = 133–163 V and VC = 214 V, while SA120A is unidirectional with VBR = 133–147 V and lower VC = 193 V. SA120CAH supports AC or floating DC protection; SA120A offers tighter VBR tolerance and lower clamping but requires correct polarity orientation and lacks bidirectional capability.
SA120CAH 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:
- 193V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 2.7A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 500W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
SA120CAH FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA120CAH through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA120CAH 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 SA120CAH reliable?
The price and inventory of SA120CAH are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA120CAH is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA120CAH?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA120CAH transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA120CAH?
SA120CAH orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA120CAH 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 SA120CAH?
For technical support, including SA120CAH datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA120CAH requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA120CAH is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA120CAH 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 SA120CAH meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA120CAH?
All SA120CAH units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA120CAH, 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 SA120CAH part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA120CAH:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA120CAH 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…

