Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA12AHE3/54
- Part No.:
- SA12AHE3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA12AHE3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,298
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Product details
Overview
SA12AHE3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-15 package, designed for circuit protection against ESD, lightning surges, and inductive switching transients. It features 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR at 1 mA), 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 25.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and clamps to ≤19.9 V at rated surge. It is AEC-Q101 qualified and used to protect automotive sensor signal lines and power rails.
For engineers reviewing the SA12AHE3/54 datasheet, SA12AHE3/54 pinout, SA12AHE3/54 application, or SA12AHE3/54 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, mechanical package data, real-world protection use cases, and validated alternative parts - all specific to the SA12AHE3/54 variant with HE3 (AEC-Q101) qualification and 54-tape-and-reel packaging.
Technical Context
The SA12AHE3/54 operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, triggering when reverse voltage exceeds its 13.3–14.7 V breakdown range. Its glass-passivated junction enables fast response (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for suppressing sub-microsecond transients on 12 V automotive supply rails and CAN/LIN bus interfaces.
It is rated for 70 A non-repetitive forward surge (IFSM, 10 ms half-sine), 3.0 W steady-state power dissipation at TL = 75 °C, and operates across -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature. The HE3 suffix confirms AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance, distinguishing it from commercial-grade E3 variants.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; sets protection threshold for 12 V systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at IT = 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown window ensures reliable turn-on without premature conduction. |
| IPPM | 25.1 A at 10/1000 μs - Peak surge current capability defines maximum transient energy absorption per event. |
| VC | ≤19.9 V at IPPM - Clamping voltage limits downstream IC stress during worst-case surge events. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power rating determines survivability under standardized lightning/surge waveforms. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - High junction temperature rating supports under-hood automotive placement without derating. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD robustness. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-15 (DO-204AC), axial leaded, epoxy-molded case with matte tin-plated leads. Cathode indicated by color band; polarity-critical for unidirectional operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current entry / Reverse surge return path | Connected to system ground or low-side reference; completes clamping loop during transient events. |
| Cathode | Reverse voltage sensing / Clamping output node | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail or signal); conducts when VREV > VBR to shunt surge to ground. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enables <1 ns response time and stable VBR over lifetime, critical for fast ESD and lightning transients. |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge immunity without external series impedance. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification (HE3 suffix) | Validated for automotive Grade 2 (-40 °C to +105 °C ambient) and extended life-cycle requirements. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.4) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream MOSFETs, MCUs, and LIN transceivers during clamping. |
| DO-15 mechanical robustness | Withstands 275 °C solder dip (10 s), J-STD-002 solderability, and UL 94 V-0 flammability compliance. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V power inputs and switch sense lines in BCMs exposed to load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between fused 12 V rail and MCU GPIO or high-side driver input. Use Value: Clamps transients up to 19.9 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in automotive-grade microcontrollers and pre-drivers. |
Use Scenario: Shielding 24 V digital input channels in programmable logic controllers from field-wiring induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end protection device mounted directly at terminal block entry point before optocoupler or Schmitt trigger input stage. Use Value: Absorbs 500 W surges without degradation, enabling IEC 61000-4-4 Level 3 (2 kV) and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (2 kV) compliance. |
| Automotive Sensor Signal Line (e.g., ABS Wheel Speed) | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Power Stage |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding differential analog outputs of wheel speed sensors connected to ABS ECUs via long harnesses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable but used unidirectionally (cathode to signal line, anode to chassis ground) to suppress coupled noise and ESD. Use Value: Sub-20 V clamping preserves signal integrity while meeting ISO 16750-2 pulse 5a/b requirements for automotive electronics. |
Use Scenario: Protecting N-channel MOSFET gates and bootstrap circuits in BLDC motor inverters from Miller-induced spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed across gate-source terminals or between high-side driver output and ground to clamp dv/dt-induced overshoot. Use Value: Fast response and low VC prevent unintended MOSFET turn-on and reduce gate oxide stress during commutation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12A-E3/52 (Vishay) | Same VWM/VBR/VC, but SMA package (surface-mount), lower IPPM (23.3 A), same PPPM (400 W). | Requires PCB rework for SMT layout; unsuitable for through-hole legacy designs or high-vibration environments where axial leads provide mechanical stability. | Select when board space is constrained and automated assembly is prioritized over mechanical ruggedness. |
| 1.5KE12A (ON Semiconductor) | DO-201 package, identical VWM (12 V), slightly higher VC (23.2 V), same PPPM (500 W), but not AEC-Q101 qualified. | Lacks automotive qualification; requires additional reliability validation for automotive Tier 1 programs. | Acceptable for industrial or consumer applications where AEC-Q101 is not mandated and cost is primary. |
Compared with SMAJ12A-E3/52 and 1.5KE12A, the SA12AHE3/54 uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-15 mechanical robustness, and precise 19.9 V clamping - making it the preferred choice for production automotive modules requiring zero-layout change and certified reliability.
Availability
SA12AHE3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial control systems, and consumer appliance power stages requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA12AHE3/54 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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, precision, and automotive-grade qualification.
The SAxxA family delivers standardized TVS performance across 5.0–170 V VWM ranges, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive yet mission-critical transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SA12AHE3/54 at its rated peak pulse current?
The SA12AHE3/54 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V when subjected to its rated 25.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 7 in Vishay document 88378 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SA12AHE3/54 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SA12AHE3/54 suitable for bidirectional transient suppression?
No - the SA12AHE3/54 is a unidirectional TVS diode, as indicated by the "A" suffix (vs. "CA" for bidirectional). It conducts only in reverse bias above VBR; forward conduction follows standard diode behavior. For bidirectional protection, Vishay specifies SA12CA variants. Using SA12AHE3/54 in AC-coupled or symmetrical signal paths requires external design accommodations and is not recommended without validation.
What does the "HE3/54" suffix mean in SA12AHE3/54?
The "HE3" suffix denotes AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance, distinguishing it from commercial-grade "E3" parts. The "/54" indicates packaging in 13-inch paper tape and reel with 4000 units per reel, per Vishay's ordering nomenclature. This full designation confirms the SA12AHE3/54 meets automotive reliability standards and ships in production-ready surface-mount-compatible format.
Can the SA12AHE3/54 replace the SA12A-E3/54 in an existing design?
Yes - the SA12AHE3/54 is a direct drop-in replacement for SA12A-E3/54 in terms of electrical specs, package (DO-15), and pinout. The only functional difference is the AEC-Q101 qualification and enhanced whisker resistance of the HE3 version. No PCB or schematic changes are required; however, qualification documentation and test reports differ, so automotive programs must update part approval records to reflect the HE3 status.
What is the maximum operating temperature for the SA12AHE3/54?
The SA12AHE3/54 has a maximum junction temperature (TJ) of +175 °C and operates across -55 °C to +175 °C. Its thermal performance is validated per JEDEC standards, and the DO-15 package supports 3.0 W steady-state dissipation at lead temperature (TL) of 75 °C. This makes the SA12AHE3/54 suitable for under-hood automotive locations and high-ambient industrial enclosures where thermal margin is critical.
SA12AHE3/54 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 25.1A
- 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)
SA12AHE3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA12AHE3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA12AHE3/54 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 SA12AHE3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA12AHE3/54 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA12AHE3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA12AHE3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA12AHE3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA12AHE3/54?
SA12AHE3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA12AHE3/54 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 SA12AHE3/54?
For technical support, including SA12AHE3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA12AHE3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA12AHE3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA12AHE3/54 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 SA12AHE3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA12AHE3/54?
All SA12AHE3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA12AHE3/54, 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 SA12AHE3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA12AHE3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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