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onsemi SA15CA
- Part No.:
- SA15CA
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA15CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO15
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:5,848
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Product details
Overview
SA15CA from Fairchild Semiconductor is a 500 W bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-15 package, with 15 V reverse stand-off voltage (VRWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR), and 24.4 V clamping voltage (VC) at 20.6 A peak pulse current (IPPM) on 10/1000 μs waveform - used for ESD and surge protection in DC power rails and signal lines.
For engineers reviewing the SA15CA datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, bidirectional clamping behavior, JEDEC-compliant surge ratings, thermal derating curves, and real-world design implications for industrial power supply input stages, automotive body electronics, and telecom interface protection.
Technical Context
The SA15CA employs a glass-passivated junction to achieve fast response time (<5.0 ns for bidirectional operation) and low incremental surge resistance, enabling effective suppression of lightning-induced transients and EFT bursts per IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5. Its unidirectional counterpart is SA15A; the "C" suffix confirms symmetrical bidirectional conduction.
Rated for 175°C junction temperature and -65°C to +175°C storage range, it supports high-reliability operation in harsh environments. The device exhibits <1.0 μA reverse leakage at VRWM and maintains stable clamping performance across ambient temperatures up to 75°C with 1.0 W steady-state power dissipation at 0.375" lead length.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 μs) | 500 W - sustains single high-energy surges without failure, e.g., 4 kV contact discharge per IEC 61000-4-2 |
| Reverse Stand-off Voltage (VRWM) | 15 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage before significant leakage begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 16.7–18.5 V at 1.0 mA - defines onset of avalanche conduction; tight tolerance ensures predictable turn-on |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 24.4 V at 20.6 A IPPM - limits downstream voltage stress during surge events |
| Peak Pulse Current (IPPM) | 20.6 A on 10/1000 μs waveform - quantifies maximum surge current the device can safely divert |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | ≤1.0 μA at VRWM - negligible standby power loss and minimal impact on high-impedance circuits |
| Response Time | <5.0 ns - enables protection of fast-edge digital signals and switching power supply control lines |
Pinout & Package
DO-15 axial-leaded package with no cathode band (bidirectional construction). Leads are tinned and suitable for wave or hand soldering. Package outline conforms to JEDEC DO-15 standard (body diameter: 2.7–3.6 mm, length: 5.2–7.6 mm).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Lead 1) | Surge current entry point in one polarity | Connects to protected line; symmetric with cathode under reverse bias due to bidirectional structure |
| Cathode (Lead 2) | Surge current entry point in opposite polarity | Functions identically to anode under reversed voltage; no polarity marking required |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enhances long-term reliability and moisture resistance in humid or contaminated environments |
| 500 W peak pulse rating | Meets Level 4 IEC 61000-4-5 (4 kV line-to-earth surge) without derating in typical PCB layouts |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.46) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream ICs compared to higher-ratio TVS devices |
| Fast response time <5.0 ns | Protects sensitive analog front-ends and high-speed communication interfaces before damage occurs |
| Bidirectional symmetry | Eliminates need for polarity-aware layout; simplifies routing on AC-coupled or floating lines |
Applications
| Industrial Power Input Protection | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 24 V DC power rail in programmable logic controllers exposed to load dump and inductive switching transients. IC Role / Device Role: Primary overvoltage clamp placed upstream of DC-DC converters and microcontroller power supplies. Use Value: Limits transient excursions to ≤24.4 V, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V LDOs and MCU VDD pins. |
Use Scenario: LIN bus transceiver and sensor inputs subject to battery reversal, jump-start spikes, and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role: Bidirectional surge limiter on LIN data line and 12 V supply rail. Use Value: Clamps both positive and negative transients without external polarity selection, meeting ISO 16750-2 requirements. |
| Telecom Interface Protection | AC-DC Adapter Secondary Side |
Use Scenario: RS-485 transceiver terminals in outdoor network equipment subjected to induced lightning surges. IC Role / Device Role: Line-to-line and line-to-ground TVS pair protecting differential signaling nodes. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping preserves common-mode rejection while limiting differential overvoltage to safe levels for transceiver I/O cells. |
Use Scenario: Output rectifier circuit in isolated flyback adapters where secondary-side surges may occur due to transformer ringing or output short recovery. IC Role / Device Role: Clamp across secondary winding or output capacitor to absorb energy not handled by primary-side snubber. Use Value: Prevents secondary-side voltage overshoot beyond 24.4 V, safeguarding optocoupler feedback path and output capacitors. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15CA (Bourns) | Same VRWM (15 V), VC = 24.4 V, but SMB package (surface-mount); 600 W rating | Requires PCB rework for SMT vs. through-hole; better thermal performance in compact designs | Select when board space is constrained and automated assembly is preferred |
| P6KE15CA (ON Semiconductor) | Same DO-15 package and electrical specs; 600 W rating; slightly higher IR (5 μA max) | Compatible drop-in replacement with identical footprint and mounting | Choose for second-source assurance with validated qualification to AEC-Q101 |
Compared with SMBJ15CA and P6KE15CA, the SA15CA offers identical clamping performance in a legacy through-hole form factor optimized for manual repair, high-voltage isolation creepage, and ruggedized industrial assemblies - making it preferable where mechanical robustness and serviceability outweigh density or automation needs.
Availability
SA15CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power input protection, automotive body electronics, telecom interface hardening, and AC-DC adapter secondary-side surge suppression requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA15CA 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
Fairchild Semiconductor was a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance analog and power semiconductors, acquired by ON Semiconductor in 2016; its legacy TVS portfolio remains widely deployed in industrial and automotive systems.
The SA15CA belongs to Fairchild's SAxxCA series of 500 W bidirectional TVS diodes, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-surge-capability protection in DC power distribution networks and wired communication interfaces.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SA15CA at its rated peak pulse current?
The SA15CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 20.6 A on the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured under controlled test conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - a critical parameter for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The SA15CA maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SA15CA unidirectional or bidirectional, and how does that affect circuit placement?
The SA15CA is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor, indicated by the "C" suffix. It conducts symmetrically in both polarities, eliminating the need to observe anode/cathode orientation during placement. This allows direct integration into AC-coupled paths, floating grounds, or dual-polarity supply rails without polarity-dependent routing - unlike unidirectional variants such as SA15A. The absence of a cathode band on the DO-15 package visually confirms its bidirectional nature.
Can SA15CA be used in automotive applications compliant with ISO 7637-2?
Yes, the SA15CA is suitable for automotive applications requiring compliance with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 (inductive load dump), Pulse 2a (sudden load interruption), and Pulse 3a/b (switching transients), provided system-level testing validates performance in the final layout. Its 500 W peak pulse rating, 24.4 V clamping voltage, and 175°C junction rating align with under-hood environmental demands. However, AEC-Q101 qualification is not claimed for the SA15CA itself; designers should verify qualification status of the specific lot or consider P6KE15CA as a qualified alternative.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation for SA15CA at elevated ambient temperatures?
The SA15CA is rated for 1.0 W steady-state power dissipation at 75°C ambient temperature with 0.375" lead length, per JEDEC standards. Derating is linear above 75°C, reaching zero allowable dissipation at 175°C junction temperature. Engineers must apply the published pulse derating curve (Figure 2) for repetitive surge conditions and ensure PCB copper area and airflow prevent sustained junction temperatures from exceeding 175°C - especially in enclosed enclosures or high-power-density designs using SA15CA.
How does the SA15CA's response time compare to MOV-based protectors?
The SA15CA responds in less than 5.0 ns, significantly faster than metal-oxide varistors (MOVs), which typically exhibit 20–50 ns response times. This sub-5 ns speed enables protection of fast-switching nodes - such as gate drivers, ADC reference inputs, or high-speed serial links - where MOVs would allow damaging voltage overshoot before clamping. While MOVs offer higher energy absorption per unit volume, the SA15CA's speed and precise clamping make it superior for protecting semiconductor junctions against ESD and fast-rising transients.
SA15CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 20.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 500W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-15
SA15CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA15CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA15CA 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 SA15CA reliable?
The price and inventory of SA15CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA15CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA15CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA15CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA15CA?
SA15CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA15CA 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 SA15CA?
For technical support, including SA15CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA15CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA15CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA15CA 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 SA15CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA15CA?
All SA15CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA15CA, 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 SA15CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA15CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA15CA Tags
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onsemi
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Diodes Incorporated
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Diodes Incorporated
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Diodes Incorporated
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Diodes Incorporated
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onsemi
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Diodes Incorporated
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Diodes Incorporated
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Nexperia USA Inc.
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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage
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Diodes Incorporated
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