Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA15HE3/73
- Part No.:
- SA15HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA15HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 26.9VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,338
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Product details
Overview
SA15HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a uni-directional TransZORB® transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, designed for clamping inductive switching transients and ESD events on power rails and signal lines. It features 15 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 24.4 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 20.5 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.
For engineers reviewing the SA15HE3/73 datasheet, SA15HE3/73 pinout, SA15HE3/73 application, or SA15HE3/73 equivalent, this device is selected for robust overvoltage protection in 12 V automotive subsystems, DC power input stages, and industrial sensor interfaces where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio, and high surge reliability are required.
Technical Context
This uni-directional TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 µA leakage at 15 V), then rapidly avalanches to limit transient voltages when VBR is exceeded. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and long-term reliability under repetitive surge stress.
The SA15HE3/73 is rated for 70 A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM, 10 ms half-sine), supports 3.0 W steady-state power dissipation on infinite heatsink at TL = 75 °C, and maintains operation across –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature range - enabling deployment in under-hood automotive environments and industrial control cabinets.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins; defines safe working margin for 12 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 16.7 V / 18.5 V at IT = 1 mA - Tight breakdown tolerance ensures predictable turn-on threshold and minimal variation across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V at 20.5 A (10/1000 µs) - Clamping voltage limits downstream IC stress during surge; clamping ratio = 1.63×VWM. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling capability with standard 10/1000 µs waveform; validated for ≥0.01% duty cycle repetition. |
| IFSM | 70 A - Forward surge rating enables survivability against load-dump transients in automotive 12 V battery systems. |
| TJ max | +175 °C - High junction temperature rating supports placement near heat sources and extended lifetime in thermally demanding enclosures. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Meets stress test requirements for automotive electronic components, including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0; matte tin-plated leads, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix). Polarity indicated by cathode band on anode end.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (banded end) | Current entry point during forward conduction; connected to protected circuit ground or low-side return path | Enables uni-directional clamping from line-to-ground; must be tied to system reference plane with low-inductance path. |
| Cathode (non-banded end) | Current exit point during avalanche; connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail or signal trace) | Serves as transient sink node; clamps voltage between cathode and anode when VBR exceeded - critical for accurate placement relative to protected IC inputs. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR over time and temperature, reduces parameter drift, and improves resistance to humidity-induced degradation. |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity (4 kV line-to-earth) without derating in typical PCB layouts. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates suitability for automotive powertrain, body electronics, and ADAS modules requiring zero-failure field reliability. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a), improving protection margin for sensitive MOSFET gates. |
| Matte tin plating, J-STD-002 compliant | Guarantees reliable solder wetting and intermetallic formation during reflow or wave soldering, reducing voiding risk. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Input Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Clamp |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply inputs of ECUs, lighting controllers, and infotainment head units against load dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role: Uni-directional shunt clamp placed between battery rail and local regulator input, referenced to chassis ground. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤24.4 V during 20.5 A surges, preventing damage to downstream LDOs and microcontrollers while maintaining AEC-Q101 compliance. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs (e.g., 4–20 mA current loops) and digital I/O lines of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role: Line-to-ground TVS on sensor output traces, positioned adjacent to connector interface to intercept ESD and cable discharge events. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response and 24.4 V clamping prevent latch-up or gate oxide rupture in op-amps and ADC drivers exposed to ±8 kV contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2. |
| DC Motor Drive Flyback Suppression | Telecom Power Interface Surge Guard |
|
Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from brushed DC motors in HVAC actuators and seat positioners. IC Role / Device Role: Mounted across motor terminals (cathode to +V, anode to ground) to absorb energy from back-EMF during PWM commutation. Use Value: Withstands 70 A IFSM and dissipates flyback energy within 500 W PPPM envelope, eliminating need for snubber RC networks. |
Use Scenario: Front-end protection of 48 V PoE-powered equipment (e.g., IP cameras, wireless access points) against lightning-induced surges on Ethernet pairs. IC Role / Device Role: Paired with common-mode chokes and gas discharge tubes to form multi-stage protection network on data/power lines. Use Value: Provides precise 15 V clamping threshold compatible with IEEE 802.3af/at voltage limits, ensuring no false triggering during normal operation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15A-E3/57 | Same VWM (15 V), identical DO-214AC package, but lower PPPM = 400 W and higher VC = 24.4 V @ 17.6 A. | Less robust for automotive load dump; suitable only for consumer-grade 12 V supplies with lower surge exposure. | Select SMAJ15A-E3/57 if board space constraints require SMD mounting and surge levels are limited to IEC 61000-4-5 Level 2. |
| 1.5KE15A | Higher PPPM = 1500 W, same VWM/VBR, but larger DO-201AD package and no AEC-Q101 qualification. | Not qualified for automotive use; better suited for industrial AC/DC front-ends where size and qualification are secondary. | Choose 1.5KE15A only for non-automotive applications requiring higher single-pulse energy absorption and where leaded DO-15 footprint is unavailable. |
Compared with SMAJ15A-E3/57 and 1.5KE15A, SA15HE3/73 delivers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 compliance, DO-15 through-hole manufacturability, and 500 W surge capacity - making it the preferred choice for automotive and high-reliability industrial designs where qualification and proven field performance are mandatory.
Availability
SA15HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial sensor interfaces, and DC motor drive circuits requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA15HE3/73 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 automotive-grade qualification.
The SAxx series is part of Vishay's TransZORB® TVS platform, engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure applications demanding AEC-Q101 validation and repeatable clamping performance.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SA15HE3/73 under standard surge conditions?
The SA15HE3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 20.5 A using the 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and reflects worst-case voltage seen by downstream circuitry during transient events - critical for verifying margin against IC absolute maximum ratings.
Is the SA15HE3/73 suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 certification?
Yes, the SA15HE3/73 carries the HE3 suffix, which explicitly denotes AEC-Q101 qualification per Vishay's ordering nomenclature. It has passed all required stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD, making it approved for use in automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS modules.
How does the SA15HE3/73 differ from bi-directional variants like SA15CA?
The SA15HE3/73 is a uni-directional TVS diode with polarity marking (cathode band), intended for line-to-ground protection in DC systems. In contrast, SA15CA is bi-directional, unmarked, and used for AC or differential signal protection. Their VBR, VC, and PPPM values are identical, but circuit topology and grounding strategy differ fundamentally.
What is the thermal derating behavior of the SA15HE3/73 above 25 °C ambient?
The SA15HE3/73 follows Vishay's standard derating curve: its peak pulse power remains constant up to TJ = 175 °C, but steady-state power dissipation (PD = 3.0 W) decreases linearly above TL = 75 °C. At 125 °C lead temperature, PD drops to approximately 1.5 W - requiring thermal design consideration for continuous power handling.
Can the SA15HE3/73 be used in place of the older SA15A-E3/54 variant?
Yes, SA15HE3/73 is a direct replacement for SA15A-E3/54 with identical electrical specifications and DO-204AC packaging. The HE3 suffix confirms AEC-Q101 qualification, whereas E3 indicates commercial grade only - so SA15HE3/73 adds automotive reliability without changing layout or performance.
SA15HE3/73 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:
- -
- 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)
SA15HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA15HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA15HE3/73 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 SA15HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA15HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA15HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA15HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA15HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA15HE3/73?
SA15HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA15HE3/73 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 SA15HE3/73?
For technical support, including SA15HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA15HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA15HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA15HE3/73 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 SA15HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA15HE3/73?
All SA15HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA15HE3/73, 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 SA15HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA15HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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