Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA12C-E3/73
- Part No.:
- SA12C-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA12C-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 22VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,061
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Product details
Overview
SA12C-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. 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), and clamps to ≤19.9 V at 25.1 A peak pulse current - used in automotive sensor protection and industrial I/O interface surge suppression.
For engineers reviewing the SA12C-E3/73 datasheet, SA12C-E3/73 pinout, SA12C-E3/73 application, or SA12C-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include bi-directional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-15 mechanical compatibility, and verified 175 °C junction temperature rating under transient stress.
Technical Context
This bi-directional TVS operates symmetrically in both polarities, with identical VBR, IPPM, and VC specifications in forward and reverse directions. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<1.0 µA at VWM) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for repeatable clamping performance across thermal cycles.
The device complies with AEC-Q101 stress testing for automotive use and supports soldering per J-STD-002/JESD 22-B102. Its 10/1000 µs waveform rating reflects standardized lightning-surge immunity testing, and derating curves confirm usable operation up to 175 °C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - maximum continuous reverse/forward voltage before clamping begins; defines operating margin for 12 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - guaranteed breakdown threshold ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤19.9 V at 25.1 A - clamping voltage limits downstream IC stress during 500 W transient surges. |
| PPPM | 500 W (10/1000 µs) - peak surge energy handling capacity validated per industry-standard waveform. |
| ID @ VWM | ≤1.0 µA - ultra-low leakage preserves signal integrity and battery life in always-on circuits. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial environments. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - certified for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD. |
Pinout & Package
SA12C-E3/73 is housed in a DO-204AC (DO-15) molded epoxy package with matte tin-plated leads. The bi-directional configuration has no polarity marking; both terminals are functionally identical and interchangeable.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bi-directional transient conduction path | No cathode band; either terminal conducts when voltage exceeds ±VBR, enabling AC or dual-rail protection without orientation constraints. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under humidity and thermal stress. |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge events without degradation. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics. |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Meets flammability safety requirements for enclosed industrial and transportation equipment. |
| JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance | E3 suffix confirms robustness against tin whisker growth in high-reliability assemblies. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and inductive switching transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional clamping element placed at connector interface to shunt surge energy before it reaches sensitive analog front-ends or communication ICs. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤19.9 V, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 12 V rail-connected ASICs while maintaining signal fidelity during normal operation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil kickback and ESD in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression device across 24 V DC input terminals, operating in parallel with filtering capacitors to absorb fast-rising transients. Use Value: Clamps 500 W surges within nanoseconds, reducing required PCB space versus multi-stage protection and eliminating need for series impedance in low-speed I/O paths. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Appliance Motor Control |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers and Ethernet PHYs in networked building management systems from induced lightning surges on long cable runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line bi-directional TVS on differential data lines, coordinated with common-mode chokes to meet IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity requirements. Use Value: Symmetric clamping ensures equal protection on both A/B lines, preserving differential signaling integrity and avoiding common-mode offset during surge events. |
Use Scenario: Suppressing commutation spikes from brushed DC motors in smart home appliances (e.g., washing machine drum drives, HVAC blowers). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Across-motor terminals to clamp inductive kickback, protecting microcontroller GPIOs and motor driver FETs from overvoltage stress. Use Value: Withstands repetitive 70 A non-repetitive surge (IFSM), enabling reliable operation over thousands of motor start-stop cycles without parameter drift. |
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 package; lower PPPM (400 W), higher VC (23.2 V at 17.3 A), slightly wider VBR tolerance (13.3–15.8 V). | Less suitable for high-energy surges; may allow higher clamped voltage in 12 V systems. | Select SMAJ12CA only if board space requires SMC/SMA footprint and system surge level is ≤400 W. |
| 1.5KE12CA | DO-201AD package; same 500 W rating but larger outline (7.1 mm x 5.3 mm vs. DO-15's 4.2 mm x 2.2 mm); higher IFSM (100 A). | Better suited for high-current industrial mains protection where size is less constrained. | Choose 1.5KE12CA when layout allows larger package and higher single-pulse surge margin is prioritized over compactness. |
Compared with SA12C-E3/73, SMAJ12CA trades compact DO-15 form factor for reduced surge handling, while 1.5KE12CA retains full 500 W capability but requires significantly more PCB area - making SA12C-E3/73 optimal for space-constrained automotive and consumer designs needing AEC-Q101 compliance.
Availability
SA12C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line protection requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant sourcing, and AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for SA12C-E3/73 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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SAxxC series was developed specifically for bi-directional transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments, combining AEC-Q101 qualification, tight VBR tolerances, and robust thermal performance in standard DO-15 packaging.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of SA12C-E3/73?
SA12C-E3/73 is a bi-directional TVS diode with symmetrical terminals and no polarity marking. Both ends function identically, conducting when voltage magnitude exceeds ±VBR. This eliminates orientation concerns during placement and supports AC-coupled or dual-rail protection schemes without redesign.
Does SA12C-E3/73 meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, SA12C-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, having passed stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias, temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing. Its DO-204AC package and E3 suffix also satisfy JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements for automotive electronics.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SA12C-E3/73 under surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of SA12C-E3/73 is 19.9 V at 25.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM) using a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during transient events.
Can SA12C-E3/73 be used in place of a uni-directional TVS like SA12A-E3/73?
No - SA12C-E3/73 is bi-directional and lacks a defined cathode, whereas SA12A-E3/73 is uni-directional with a marked cathode band. Substituting SA12C-E3/73 for SA12A-E3/73 in DC-only applications introduces unnecessary reverse conduction risk and alters leakage behavior; always match polarity type to circuit topology.
What is the lead finish and soldering compatibility of SA12C-E3/73?
SA12C-E3/73 features matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. It supports wave and reflow soldering with maximum solder dip temperature of 275 °C for 10 seconds, and its E3 suffix confirms JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance for long-term reliability.
SA12C-E3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 22V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 22.7A
- 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)
SA12C-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA12C-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA12C-E3/73 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 SA12C-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA12C-E3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA12C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA12C-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA12C-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA12C-E3/73?
SA12C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA12C-E3/73 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 SA12C-E3/73?
For technical support, including SA12C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA12C-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA12C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA12C-E3/73 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 SA12C-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA12C-E3/73?
All SA12C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA12C-E3/73, 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 SA12C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA12C-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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