Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SA12CAH
- Part No.:
- SA12CAH
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA12CAH.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,241
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA12CAH from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional AEC-Q101-qualified transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, rated for 500W peak pulse power at 10/1000μs, with 12V working stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–16.3V breakdown voltage (VBR), and 22.0V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 23A peak pulse current. It protects automotive lighting and ECU power rails against ESD and electrical fast transients.
For engineers reviewing the SA12CAH datasheet, SA12CAH pinout, SA12CAH application, or SA12CAH equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, 175°C junction temperature rating, low leakage (<1μA @ 12V), and DO-15 mechanical compatibility with high-reliability automotive PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The SA12CAH is a silicon avalanche diode designed for bidirectional transient suppression in automotive and industrial systems. Its symmetrical VBR min/max (13.3–16.3V) and matched clamping behavior in both polarities enable robust protection of differential signal lines and ungrounded DC rails without polarity dependency.
It operates across –55°C to +175°C junction temperature range and sustains 70A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM) per 8.3ms half-sine wave. The device exhibits <1.0ps response time for unidirectional mode and 5.0ns for bidirectional mode, ensuring sub-nanosecond reaction to ESD events per IEC 61000-4-2.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before clamping begins; sets system operating margin above nominal 12V automotive rail. |
| VBR @ IT=1mA | 13.3–16.3 V - Breakdown threshold range; ensures reliable conduction onset during transients while avoiding false triggering. |
| VC @ IPPM=23A | 22.0 V - Clamped voltage under 10/1000μs surge; limits downstream IC stress to safe levels below typical 24V system tolerance. |
| PPK | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling; supports ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/3a and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 surges. |
| IR @ VWM | <1 μA - Reverse leakage at 12V; negligible standby current draw critical for always-on automotive modules. |
| TJ max | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables placement near hot components (e.g., power MOSFETs, engine control units). |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - Industry-standard axial leaded package with 0.400g mass; compatible with legacy through-hole assembly and reflow-reflow hybrid processes. |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) package with axial leads; cathode band marking denotes polarity for unidirectional variants only - SA12CAH is bidirectional and has no polarity marking. 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 | Transient current entry (negative polarity) | Accepts negative-going surges; forms symmetrical clamping path with cathode during bidirectional operation. |
| Cathode | Transient current entry (positive polarity) | Accepts positive-going surges; identical clamping performance to anode due to bidirectional construction. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive underhood applications including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock per stress test plan. |
| Bidirectional clamping | Identical VBR and VC specs in both directions - eliminates need for external polarity management in floating or AC-coupled circuits. |
| 500W 10/1000μs surge rating | Withstands repetitive load dump and inductive switching transients common in 12V vehicle electrical systems. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.4) | Minimizes overvoltage overshoot during clamping - critical for protecting 16V-tolerant microcontrollers and CAN transceivers. |
| RoHS & halogen-free | Complies with IEC 61249-2-21 and EU Directive 2011/65/EU - supports green manufacturing and end-of-life recycling requirements. |
Applications
| Automotive Lighting Systems | Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Rails |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting LED driver ICs and LIN bus interfaces in headlamp modules exposed to load dump and jump-start surges. IC Role / Device Role: Primary bidirectional TVS at input filter stage, placed before DC-DC converter and linear regulators. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤22V during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump), preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 24V-rated drivers. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 5V/3.3V supply domains in engine management systems subjected to cranking dips and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role: Secondary protection after primary fuse and LC filter, shunting fast EFT bursts coupled via harness. Use Value: Sub-5ns response ensures clamping before 50ns EFT pulses (IEC 61000-4-4) propagate into MCU I/O pins or analog sensor front-ends. |
| Industrial Motor Drives | Smart Sensor Nodes |
Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from 24V solenoid valves and relay coils in factory automation PLC I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role: Snubber element across coil terminals, clamping flyback voltage to protect driving MOSFETs and optocouplers. Use Value: 70A IFSM rating handles repeated 8.3ms coil de-energization surges without degradation over >100k cycles. | Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers and MEMS pressure sensors in battery-powered predictive maintenance nodes deployed in harsh environments. IC Role / Device Role: Input-stage ESD clamp on communication lines and sensor excitation paths. Use Value: <1μA IR at 12V enables multi-year battery life in always-on monitoring devices without compromising protection integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12CA | Same DO-214AC (SMA) package; lower PPK (400W); VBR 13.3–14.7V; VC = 19.9V @ 20.1A. | Surface-mount only; unsuitable for through-hole or high-mass thermal sinking; better for space-constrained PCBs. | Select SMAJ12CA when board area is limited and 400W surge margin suffices; avoid if legacy DO-15 footprint or higher thermal mass is required. |
| P6SMB12CA | DO-214AA (SMB) package; PPK = 600W; VBR 13.3–14.7V; VC = 19.9V @ 30.1A; AEC-Q101 not specified. | Higher surge rating but lacks automotive qualification; requires separate reliability validation for automotive use. | Choose P6SMB12CA for industrial applications needing extra margin; confirm AEC-Q101 compliance separately if targeting automotive OEM programs. |
Compared with SMAJ12CA and P6SMB12CA, SA12CAH uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-15 through-hole mechanical robustness, and precise 500W/22V clamping - making it optimal for production automotive modules where qualification traceability and assembly compatibility are mandatory.
Availability
SA12CAH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting systems, engine control unit (ECU) power rails, and industrial motor drive protection requiring stable component supply and full AEC-Q101 documentation support.
Supply support for SA12CAH 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 automotive-qualified components since 1979.
The SA Series is engineered specifically for automotive-grade transient suppression, emphasizing AEC-Q101 compliance, high-temperature reliability, and consistent clamping performance across wide operating conditions.
FAQ
What does the "H" suffix in SA12CAH signify?
The "H" suffix in SA12CAH indicates full AEC-Q101 qualification per Rev D test plan, covering stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature operating life, and ESD robustness. SA12CAH is certified for automotive underhood use up to 175°C junction temperature, unlike standard SA12CA variants.
Is SA12CAH unidirectional or bidirectional, and how is polarity identified?
SA12CAH is a bidirectional TVS diode - it clamps symmetrically for both positive and negative transients. Unlike unidirectional SA12A variants, SA12CAH has no cathode band marking; its DO-204AC package features identical leads with no polarity designation required for circuit layout.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SA12CAH under standard 10/1000μs surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of SA12CAH is 22.0 V when subjected to a 10/1000μs waveform at 23 A peak pulse current (IPPM), as specified in the official Taiwan Semiconductor datasheet L2105. This value ensures downstream 24V-rated ICs remain within safe operating voltage limits.
Can SA12CAH replace SA12A in an existing design?
No - SA12CAH is bidirectional while SA12A is unidirectional. Replacing SA12A with SA12CAH may cause unintended conduction in DC-biased circuits. SA12CAH requires floating or AC-coupled signal paths; verify circuit topology and ground referencing before substitution.
Does SA12CAH meet RoHS and halogen-free requirements?
Yes, SA12CAH complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and is halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21. The molding compound meets UL 94V-0 flammability rating, and tin-plated leads satisfy J-STD-002 solderability standards - confirmed in Taiwan Semiconductor's L2105 datasheet.
SA12CAH 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):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 26.3A
- 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)
SA12CAH FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA12CAH through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA12CAH 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 SA12CAH reliable?
The price and inventory of SA12CAH are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA12CAH is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA12CAH?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA12CAH transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA12CAH?
SA12CAH orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA12CAH 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 SA12CAH?
For technical support, including SA12CAH datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA12CAH requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA12CAH is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA12CAH 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 SA12CAH meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA12CAH?
All SA12CAH units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA12CAH, 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 SA12CAH part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA12CAH:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA12CAH 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…

