Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA15-E3/73
- Part No.:
- SA15-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA15-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 26.9VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,893
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA15-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, designed for primary overvoltage protection of DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 15 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1.0 mA, 24.4 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 20.5 A peak pulse current, and 500 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform.
For engineers reviewing the SA15-E3/73 datasheet, SA15-E3/73 pinout, SA15-E3/73 application, or SA15-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its unidirectional polarity, AEC-Q101 qualification, 175 °C max junction temperature, RoHS-compliant matte tin-plated leads, and suitability for automotive power rail and industrial sensor interface protection where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.45), and 70 A IFSM surge capability are required.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a shunt-type transient suppressor, conducting above its breakdown threshold to clamp transient energy away from protected circuitry. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage performance and robust surge handling, while the DO-204AC package provides mechanical reliability and thermal dissipation compatible with standard through-hole PCB assembly.
The device complies with AEC-Q101 stress testing for automotive applications and supports repetitive transients at 0.01% duty cycle. Its 10/1000 µs waveform rating reflects standardized surge immunity testing per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, and its 3.0 W steady-state power dissipation enables continuous operation under elevated ambient conditions when mounted on adequate copper area.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins; defines safe DC working margin. |
| VBR (min/max) | 16.7 V / 18.5 V at 1.0 mA - Confirmed breakdown range ensures predictable turn-on across production lot and temperature. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V at 20.5 A - Clamping voltage during 10/1000 µs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity; validates robustness against lightning-induced or inductive-switching transients. |
| IFSM | 70 A - Non-repetitive forward surge current rating; supports high-energy single-event fault conditions like load dump. |
| TJ max | 175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial environments. |
| Leakage (ID) | 1.0 µA at VWM - Low reverse leakage preserves battery life and avoids false triggering in low-power sensor circuits. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. Cathode indicated by color band on body; leads are matte tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current entry point during clamping | Connected to protected line (e.g., +12 V rail); conducts surge current toward ground path. |
| Cathode | Reverse-biased terminal during normal operation | Marked with color band; tied to system ground or low-impedance return to enable clamping action. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated chip junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive electronics including engine control units, body modules, and ADAS sensor interfaces. |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b, and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 surges without degradation. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients, improving protection margin for sensitive microcontrollers. |
| Solder dip 275 °C max. (10 s) | Compatible with standard wave-soldering processes without delamination or parameter shift. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply lines in vehicle infotainment systems against load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt clamping element placed between battery rail and ground, activated within <1 ns upon overvoltage detection. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤24.4 V, preventing damage to downstream PMICs and MCU power inputs rated for 28 V absolute max. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output lines of pressure sensors in factory automation PLC modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable protection (though SA15-E3/73 is unidirectional, used in DC-coupled paths) placed at sensor connector interface. Use Value: Suppresses ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±8 kV contact) and inductive kickback from nearby solenoid drivers without affecting 4–20 mA signal fidelity. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input Stage | Telecom Line Card Surge Protection |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side DC output protection in wall adapters powering USB-C PD devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS connected between +5 V output and GND to absorb switching noise and hot-plug transients. Use Value: Maintains regulated output integrity during repeated plug/unplug cycles, with <1.0 µA leakage preserving no-load efficiency. | Use Scenario: Front-end protection of Ethernet PHY power pins in enterprise switch line cards exposed to AC mains coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level clamping device on 3.3 V or 5 V bias rails feeding Gigabit PHY ICs. Use Value: Withstands 500 W surges per IEC 61000-4-5, reducing failure rate of PHYs during lightning-induced surges on adjacent AC wiring. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15A-E3/5T | Same VWM (15 V), identical DO-214AC package, but surface-mount; lower IPPM (24.4 A vs. 20.5 A) and same VC. | Requires SMT reflow process; unsuitable for through-hole legacy designs or high-vibration mechanical mounting. | Select SMAJ15A-E3/5T only when board space constraints mandate SMT or when automated assembly is prioritized over mechanical ruggedness. |
| 1.5KE15A | Higher PPPM (1500 W), larger DO-201AD package, same VWM/VBR range, but higher VC (24.4 V → 25.5 V) and non-AEC-Q101. | Used in industrial UPS and motor drives where higher energy absorption is critical and automotive qualification is not required. | Choose 1.5KE15A for >500 W surge events in non-automotive settings; avoid where AEC-Q101 compliance or DO-15 footprint is mandatory. |
Compared with SMAJ15A-E3/5T and 1.5KE15A, SA15-E3/73 offers AEC-Q101 qualification and DO-204AC through-hole compatibility-critical for automotive under-hood modules-while maintaining identical clamping performance and tighter VBR tolerance than the 1.5KE series, enabling more precise overvoltage threshold control.
Availability
SA15-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power rail protection, industrial sensor interface protection, and consumer power adapter input stage applications requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA15-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, automotive qualification, and high-volume manufacturability.
The SAxxA series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered specifically for robust, cost-effective transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where AEC-Q101 compliance and repeatable clamping performance are essential.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of the SA15-E3/73?
The SA15-E3/73 is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor diode. Its cathode is marked with a color band on the DO-204AC package body, and it conducts only when the anode is driven positive relative to the cathode. This configuration makes SA15-E3/73 appropriate for DC power line protection where reverse voltage is not expected, unlike bi-directional variants such as SA15CA.
Does the SA15-E3/73 meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, the SA15-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, having passed stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing. This qualification confirms its suitability for use in automotive electronic control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules where reliability under harsh thermal and vibration conditions is mandatory.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SA15-E3/73 under surge conditions?
The SA15-E3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V at 20.5 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during a standardized surge event and is critical for ensuring downstream components remain within their absolute maximum ratings.
Can the SA15-E3/73 be used in place of a bi-directional TVS like SA15CA?
No, the SA15-E3/73 cannot directly replace a bi-directional TVS such as SA15CA in AC-coupled or dual-polarity signal paths. SA15-E3/73 conducts only in forward bias (anode > cathode) and blocks reverse voltage up to 15 V; SA15CA clamps in both directions. Substitution requires circuit redesign to ensure unidirectional operation and proper grounding topology.
What is the lead finish and soldering compatibility of the SA15-E3/73?
The SA15-E3/73 features matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. It supports wave soldering at up to 275 °C for 10 seconds (per JESD 22-B106) and is RoHS-compliant (E3 suffix). The leads also meet JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements, ensuring long-term interconnect reliability in high-reliability applications.
SA15-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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 18.6A
- 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)
SA15-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA15-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA15-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 SA15-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA15-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 SA15-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA15-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA15-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA15-E3/73?
SA15-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA15-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 SA15-E3/73?
For technical support, including SA15-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA15-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA15-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA15-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 SA15-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA15-E3/73?
All SA15-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA15-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 SA15-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA15-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA15-E3/73 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
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 …
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…

