Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA12CA/54
- Part No.:
- SA12CA/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA12CA/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,790
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA12CA/54 from Littelfuse is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (Axial) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3 V clamping voltage (VC) at 37.6 A peak pulse current, and 500 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - deployed in industrial power supplies, automotive ECUs, and communication interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the SA12CA/54 datasheet, SA12CA/54 pinout, SA12CA/54 application, or SA12CA/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping symmetry, low leakage (<1.0 µA at 12 V), fast 5.0 ns response time, and compatibility with JEDEC-standard axial mounting and high-temperature soldering (265°C/10 s).
Technical Context
The SA12CA/54 is a glass-passivated, bi-directional TVS diode optimized for transient suppression in AC-coupled or floating signal lines where polarity reversal must be protected equally in both directions. Its breakdown voltage (VBR) is specified between 13.3 V (min) and 16.3 V (max) at 1.0 mA test current, with a temperature coefficient of +12.0 mV/°C.
It delivers symmetrical electrical characteristics in both polarities per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, supports steady-state power dissipation of 3.0 W at 75°C lead temperature, and maintains <1.0 µA reverse leakage at rated stand-off voltage - critical for low-power sensor and interface circuits.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 12.0 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 22.0 V at 22.7 A - peak voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 µs surge |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 500 W - surge energy handling capability under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 13.3–16.3 V at 1.0 mA - ensures reliable turn-on margin above VWM |
| Reverse Leakage (ID) | <1.0 µA at 12.0 V - negligible standby current for battery-powered or high-impedance nodes |
| Response Time | 5.0 ns - time to clamp from 0 V to VBR in bi-directional mode, protecting against ESD and lightning-induced transients |
| Operating Temperature | −55 °C to +175 °C - suitable for under-hood automotive, industrial control, and outdoor equipment |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (Axial) molded plastic package with solder-plated axial leads; polarity-neutral for bi-directional operation - no cathode band marking required.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Bi-directional transient conduction path | Either lead serves as input/output; identical clamping behavior in both directions |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Mounting interface | Axial leads support through-hole PCB mounting or chassis wiring; compliant with MIL-STD-750 Method 2026 |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR and low leakage across temperature and lifetime; resistant to humidity and contamination |
| UL 94V-0 flammability rating | Plastic body meets stringent fire-safety requirements for industrial and transportation end equipment |
| 500 W 10/1000 µs surge capability | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV line-to-earth) without degradation |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients - critical for protecting MOSFET gates and IC inputs |
| High-temp soldering guarantee | Rated for 265°C/10 s at 9.5 mm lead length - compatible with standard wave and selective soldering processes |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Drives | Automotive Body Control Modules |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of encoder feedback lines and CAN bus stubs exposed to inductive kickback and load dump events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed across differential signal pairs or supply rails to limit transients to safe levels. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in microcontrollers and transceivers during 100 V/µs edge transients. |
Use Scenario: Input protection for LIN bus transceivers and door module sensors subjected to ISO 7637-2 pulse 1, 2a, and 5a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp TVS connected between signal line and ground, leveraging symmetric response for bidirectional data integrity. Use Value: Maintains <1.0 µA leakage at 12 V system voltage while clamping 22 V peak within 5 ns - preserving sleep-mode current budgets. |
| AC-DC Power Supply Inputs | RS-485 Communication Interfaces |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side transient suppression on DC output rails of switched-mode power supplies subject to cross-regulation spikes and EFT. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS absorbing energy from coupled surges on +12 V or +24 V distribution buses. Use Value: Clamps to 22.0 V at 22.7 A without thermal runaway, enabling use with 25 V-rated capacitors and regulators. |
Use Scenario: Bus-level protection for RS-485 transceivers in factory automation networks exposed to ground potential differences and lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamp across A/B differential pair and common-mode ground reference. Use Value: Symmetrical 13.3–16.3 V breakdown ensures equal protection regardless of signal polarity - essential for half-duplex bus reliability. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12CA | DO-214AA (SMB) surface-mount package; same 12 V VWM, but 600 W PPPM and 30.0 A IPPM | Higher power density, lower profile - suited for space-constrained PCBs; requires rework for axial replacement | Select SMBJ12CA when board area is limited and SMT assembly is available; not drop-in for through-hole layouts. |
| P6KE12CA | DO-15 axial package; identical VWM/VC specs but lower 600 W rating and higher 25.5 A IPPM; larger body than SA12CA/54 | Legacy footprint compatibility; slightly higher thermal mass but same mounting orientation | Choose P6KE12CA only if DO-15 mechanical fit is mandatory; verify lead spacing and board hole size match. |
Compared with SMBJ12CA and P6KE12CA, the SA12CA/54 offers optimal balance of axial-mount compatibility, UL 94V-0 compliance, and 500 W surge rating in JEDEC DO-204AC - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, high-reliability through-hole designs requiring certified flammability performance.
Availability
SA12CA/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, automotive body control modules, and RS-485 communication interfaces requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for SA12CA/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
Littelfuse is a global leader in circuit protection, specializing in fuses, TVS diodes, and surge suppression solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.
The SA12CA/54 belongs to Littelfuse's TRANSZORB™ family - engineered specifically for high-energy, low-leakage transient suppression in commercial and industrial environments where axial mounting and UL-certified reliability are required.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SA12CA/54 at its rated peak pulse current?
The SA12CA/54 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 22.0 V at 22.7 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured across both terminals during bi-directional surge events and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuits - critical for ensuring downstream components like 24 V-rated transceivers remain within safe operating limits. The SA12CA/54 consistently achieves this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SA12CA/54 suitable for bidirectional signal line protection?
Yes, the SA12CA/54 is explicitly designed for bidirectional protection, as indicated by the "CA" suffix and confirmed in its electrical specifications - all parameters (VBR, VC, IPPM) apply identically in both polarities. Its symmetrical breakdown and clamping behavior make it ideal for protecting AC-coupled interfaces such as RS-485, CAN FD, and audio lines where voltage transients may occur with either polarity. The SA12CA/54 does not require orientation during placement, simplifying assembly and improving design robustness.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current of the SA12CA/54 at its stand-off voltage?
The SA12CA/54 exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 µA at its rated stand-off voltage of 12.0 V and ambient temperature of 25°C. This ultra-low leakage is maintained across its full −55°C to +175°C operating junction temperature range, supporting energy-efficient designs including battery-backed sensors and always-on communication nodes. The SA12CA/54 achieves this performance via glass-passivated junction construction, which minimizes surface conduction paths and ensures long-term stability.
Does the SA12CA/54 meet UL flammability standards?
Yes, the SA12CA/54's molded plastic case complies with Underwriters Laboratories Flammability Classification 94V-0 - verified per UL 94 testing protocol. This rating confirms the package will self-extinguish within 10 seconds after flame removal and produce no flaming drips, satisfying safety requirements for industrial control panels, automotive junction boxes, and medical power supplies. The SA12CA/54's UL 94V-0 compliance is intrinsic to its DO-204AC housing and does not require additional conformal coating or mechanical shielding.
What is the thermal derating behavior of the SA12CA/54 above 25°C ambient?
The SA12CA/54 follows linear thermal derating for peak pulse power above 25°C ambient, per Figure 2 in its datasheet: power capability decreases by approximately 0.4% per °C rise. At 75°C ambient, its 500 W rating is reduced to ~300 W, while its steady-state power dissipation remains 3.0 W when mounted on a 40 × 40 mm copper pad. This predictable derating allows designers to accurately model worst-case surge survival in high-temperature enclosures - a key advantage of the SA12CA/54 in under-hood or enclosed industrial applications.
SA12CA/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:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
SA12CA/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA12CA/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA12CA/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 SA12CA/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA12CA/54 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA12CA/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA12CA/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA12CA/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA12CA/54?
SA12CA/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA12CA/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 SA12CA/54?
For technical support, including SA12CA/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA12CA/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA12CA/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA12CA/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 SA12CA/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA12CA/54?
All SA12CA/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA12CA/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 SA12CA/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA12CA/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA12CA/54 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
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
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 …

