onsemi SA160AG
- Part No.:
- SA160AG
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
SA160AG.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,000
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA160AG from onsemi is a unidirectional 500 W peak power MiniMOSORB Zener transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for overvoltage protection in industrial and communication systems. It features a 160 V working peak reverse voltage (VRWM), clamps at 259 V @ 1.9 A peak pulse current (IPP), and delivers sub-1 ns response time with <1 µA leakage above 8.5 V.
For engineers reviewing the SA160AG datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include VRWM margin vs. system DC bus, clamping voltage headroom relative to protected IC absolute maximum ratings, surge current capability under IEC 61000-4-5 waveform, and UL 497B certification for isolated loop protection.
Technical Context
The SA160AG operates as a unidirectional Zener-based TVS diode, leveraging avalanche breakdown to clamp transients. Its electrical behavior is defined by three critical voltage thresholds: VRWM (160 V), VBR (178–197 V @ IT = 1 mA), and VC (259 V @ IPP = 1.9 A), ensuring reliable standoff and predictable clamping under surge conditions.
It is rated for 500 W nonrepetitive peak power per 1.0 ms pulse (Figure 4), with thermal derating above 75°C lead temperature and a junction-to-lead thermal resistance of 33.3°C/W. The device meets Class 3 ESD immunity (>16 kV HBM) and is UL 497B recognized for isolated loop circuit protection.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VRWM | 160 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; must exceed system DC/peak AC voltage. |
| VBR (min/typ/max) | 178 / 187.5 / 197 V @ 1 mA - Breakdown onset range; defines minimum clamping threshold under test conditions. |
| VC @ IPP | 259 V @ 1.9 A - Maximum clamped voltage during 1.0 ms surge; determines worst-case stress on downstream components. |
| PPK | 500 W @ 1.0 ms - Peak transient energy absorption capacity; validates compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4. |
| Response Time | <1.0 ns - Enables suppression of fast-rising ESD and lightning-induced transients before sensitive circuitry reacts. |
| Leakage Current | <1 µA @ VRWM - Negligible standby power loss and minimal impact on high-impedance bias networks. |
| UL Recognition | UL 497B (QVGV2, File #E116110) - Certified for use in isolated telecom/data line protectors, not just flammability. |
Pinout & Package
SA160AG is housed in an axial-leaded Surmetic plastic package (Case 59AA), equivalent in outline to DO-204AC/DO-15. The cathode is marked by a polarity band; leads are tin-plated, solderable at 230°C for 10 seconds at 1/16 inch from case.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient return path | Connected to ground or low-impedance reference; completes clamping loop during surge event. |
| Cathode | Protected line connection | Connected to the line being protected (e.g., RS-485 A/B, DC input); conducts avalanche current when voltage exceeds VRWM. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 500 W peak pulse power | Validates robustness against IEC 61000-4-5 combination wave surges up to 4 kV/2 Ω (open-circuit) or 2 kV/12 Ω (short-circuit). |
| UL 497B recognition | Confirms suitability for safety-critical telecom/data line isolation barriers-beyond basic flammability compliance. |
| Class 3 HBM ESD rating | Withstands >16 kV contact discharge without degradation, enabling use in exposed front-panel interfaces. |
| Low zener impedance & fast response | Minimizes voltage overshoot during nanosecond-scale transients, protecting high-speed logic and analog inputs. |
| Pb-free (RoHS-compliant) package | Meets global environmental regulations; compatible with standard SnPb and lead-free reflow/soldering processes. |
Applications
| Industrial Power Input Protection | Telecom Line Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 24–48 V DC power entry point in PLCs, motor drives, or remote I/O modules exposed to load dump and inductive switching. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp placed between input rail and chassis ground, absorbing 500 W surges without failure. Use Value: Prevents damage to upstream DC-DC controllers and downstream logic by limiting transient voltage to ≤259 V during 1.9 A pulses. | Use Scenario: RS-485/RS-422 data lines in building automation or factory networks subject to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS connected between differential pair and signal ground, suppressing common-mode transients. Use Value: Maintains data integrity by clamping surges before they exceed receiver absolute max ratings (e.g., ±15 V), validated under UL 497B isolation requirements. |
| Medical Equipment Mains Isolation | Process Control Signal Conditioning |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side isolated DC supply rails in patient-connected devices requiring reinforced insulation and surge immunity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transient suppressor on isolated 5/12/24 V outputs, referenced to isolated ground plane. Use Value: Supports UL 497B certification for isolated loop protection, ensuring no single-point failure compromises patient safety isolation barriers. | Use Scenario: 4–20 mA current loop transmitter outputs interfacing with hazardous-area barriers in oil & gas instrumentation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Surge limiter on loop-powered analog output, placed before intrinsic safety barrier input. Use Value: Limits fault voltage to safe levels (<259 V) during surge events, preserving barrier integrity and preventing ignition-capable energy transfer. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ160A | Surface-mount SMA package (vs. axial leaded); same VRWM (160 V), slightly higher VC (271 V @ 1.7 A), lower PPK (400 W). | Requires PCB layout change; better suited for automated assembly and space-constrained designs. | Select SMAJ160A when board real estate is limited and SMT manufacturing is preferred; verify clamping margin with downstream IC tolerances. |
| P6SMB160A | Same axial DO-214AA package; identical VRWM (160 V), but lower PPK (600 W), higher IPP (2.2 A), and higher VC (281 V @ 2.2 A). | Higher surge rating but looser clamping; suitable where voltage headroom allows higher VC. | Choose P6SMB160A for higher-energy surge environments where 281 V clamping is acceptable and lead-forming flexibility is needed. |
Compared with SMAJ160A and P6SMB160A, the SA160AG offers the tightest clamping (259 V) in an axial through-hole package optimized for manual assembly, high-reliability industrial mounting, and UL 497B-certified isolated loop protection-making it ideal for field-serviceable equipment and safety-critical interfaces.
Availability
SA160AG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power input protection, telecom line interface, medical equipment mains isolation, and process control signal conditioning requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA160AG 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
onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient innovation for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications.
The SA5.0A Series-including SA160AG-is part of onsemi's MiniMOSORB TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for high-reliability, high-surge industrial and communications infrastructure protection with UL 497B certification and axial-leaded mechanical robustness.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SA160AG and how is it measured?
The SA160AG has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 259 V, measured at a peak pulse current (IPP) of 1.9 A using the 1.0 ms exponential waveform defined in Figure 4 of the datasheet. This value represents the worst-case voltage seen by protected circuitry during a standardized surge event and is critical for verifying margin against downstream IC absolute maximum ratings.
Does SA160AG meet UL 497B certification, and what does that cover?
Yes, SA160AG is UL 497B recognized (File #E116110, Category QVGV2) for protector applications in isolated loops. This certification covers performance validation across strike voltage breakdown, endurance conditioning, dielectric withstand, and discharge testing-not just package flammability-making it suitable for safety-critical telecom and medical isolation barriers.
What is the difference between SA160AG and SA160A?
The 'G' suffix in SA160AG denotes a Pb-free (RoHS-compliant) version of the SA160A. Both share identical electrical specifications, package dimensions (Case 59AA), and performance characteristics; the only difference is the lead finish-SA160AG uses lead-free plating compatible with modern soldering processes, while SA160A uses traditional SnPb plating.
Can SA160AG be used in bidirectional protection circuits?
No, SA160AG is a unidirectional TVS diode and must be used with correct polarity-cathode to the line being protected, anode to ground. For bidirectional protection (e.g., AC lines or differential pairs), a dedicated bidirectional variant such as CA160A would be required; using SA160AG in reverse-biased configuration risks permanent damage.
What is the thermal derating behavior of SA160AG above 75°C?
SA160AG's steady-state power dissipation (PD) is rated at 3.0 W up to 75°C lead temperature, then derated linearly at 30 mW/°C above that point. Its peak pulse power (500 W) also derates with ambient temperature per Figure 2 in the datasheet-ensuring safe operation across industrial temperature ranges when mounted with appropriate lead length (3/8 inch).
SA160AG Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package/Case:
- -
- Series:
- *
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- -
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- -
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- -
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- -
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- -
- Power Line Protection:
- -
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
SA160AG FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA160AG through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA160AG 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 SA160AG reliable?
The price and inventory of SA160AG are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA160AG is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA160AG?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA160AG transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA160AG?
SA160AG orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA160AG 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 SA160AG?
For technical support, including SA160AG datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA160AG requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA160AG is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA160AG 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 SA160AG meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA160AG?
All SA160AG units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA160AG, 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 SA160AG part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA160AG:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA160AG 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
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…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

