Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SA160

Overview

SA160 from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 500W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, with 160V working stand-off voltage (VWM), 178–218V breakdown voltage (VBR @ 1mA), and 257V clamping voltage (VC) at 2.0A peak pulse current. It delivers fast response (<1.0ps from 0V to VBR), low leakage (<1μA @ 160V), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade surge protection.

For engineers reviewing the SA160 datasheet, SA160 pinout, SA160 application, or SA160 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 160V VWM rating for 12–48V system rail protection, 500W 10/1000μs surge capability, DO-15 mechanical compatibility, and unidirectional polarity marking - critical for ESD and inductive switching transient suppression in automotive power electronics.

Technical Context

The SA160 operates as a silicon avalanche diode optimized for clamping high-energy transients while maintaining low dynamic impedance. Its breakdown voltage range (178–218V) ensures robust margin above 160V VWM, and its 257V clamping voltage at 2.0A IPPM guarantees predictable overvoltage limiting during 10/1000μs surges.

Designed for unidirectional operation only, it features a cathode band marking, pure tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002, and UL 94V-0 molding compound. Junction temperature range spans −55°C to +175°C, supporting under-hood automotive environments without derating up to 75°C ambient.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DO-204AC (DO-15) package: axial-leaded, molded epoxy case with cathode band marking for unidirectional polarity. Leads are pure tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002, and meet JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with SMAJ160A and 1.5SMC160A, the SA160 provides tighter clamping (257V vs. ≥274V), exact DO-204AC (DO-15) footprint compatibility, and AEC-Q101 qualification - making it optimal for space-constrained, automotive-grade 24V/48V rail protection where low VC and proven reliability are prioritized.

Availability

SA160 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power electronics, industrial PLC input stages, LED driver overvoltage clamping, and telecom rectifier front-end surge protection requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle continuity.

Supply support for SA160 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 analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, specializing in TVS diodes, rectifiers, and power devices since 1979.

The SA Series was engineered specifically for high-reliability transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments, emphasizing AEC-Q101 compliance, tight VBR tolerances, and robust DO-15 packaging for harsh thermal and mechanical conditions.

FAQ

What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SA160 under standard surge conditions?

The SA160 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 257 V when subjected to a 10/1000μs surge waveform at 2.0 A peak pulse current (IPPM). This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and confirmed in the official SA Series datasheet Version L2105. The 257 V clamping level ensures downstream components like MCUs and transceivers remain within safe operating voltage limits during transient events. This specification applies strictly to the SA160, not other variants such as SA160A.

Is the SA160 suitable for automotive applications, and what qualification does it hold?

Yes, the SA160 is explicitly qualified to AEC-Q101 for automotive use, as documented in the SA Series datasheet Version L2105. It undergoes stress testing including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing (uHAST) to ensure reliability in engine control units, body control modules, and infotainment power supplies. The SA160's −55°C to +175°C junction temperature range and DO-204AC mechanical robustness further validate its suitability for under-hood deployment.

How does the SA160 differ from the SA160A variant?

The SA160 and SA160A share identical VWM (160 V) and package (DO-204AC), but differ in breakdown voltage tolerance and clamping performance: SA160 has VBR = 178–218 V and VC = 257 V, while SA160A has tighter VBR = 178–197 V and slightly higher VC = 259 V. The SA160A also specifies IR ≤ 0.1 μA (vs. <1 μA for SA160), indicating superior leakage control. These differences make SA160A preferable for ultra-low-power standby circuits, whereas SA160 offers broader VBR margin for cost-sensitive designs.

What is the reverse leakage current specification for the SA160 at its rated working voltage?

The SA160 specifies reverse leakage current (IR) of less than 1 μA when biased at its full working stand-off voltage of 160 V, measured at TA = 25°C. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss and no measurable impact on system quiescent current - critical for battery-powered automotive modules and always-on industrial sensors. The value is verified per JEDEC test methods and appears in the "Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics" table for SA160 in datasheet Version L2105.

Does the SA160 have polarity marking, and how is it identified on the device?

Yes, the SA160 is unidirectional and features a visible cathode band marking on the DO-204AC (DO-15) package body, as shown in the "Marking Diagram" section of the SA Series datasheet Version L2105. The cathode band must be oriented toward the higher-potential side (e.g., 24V rail), while the anode connects to ground or low-side reference. Incorrect orientation prevents clamping function and may cause catastrophic failure during surge events. This marking is consistent across all unidirectional SA-series parts.