Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Home > Products > Circuit Protection > Transient Voltage Suppressors (TVS) > TVS Diodes

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA160C-E3/54

Name: SA160C-E3/54
Brand: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
SKU: SA160C-E3/54
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Compare

Part No.:: SA160C-E3/54

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Category:: TVS Diodes

Package:: DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial

Datasheet:: SA160C-E3/54.pdf

Description:: TVS DIODE 160VWM 257VC DO204AC

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

Payment:

Shipping:

Inventory:7,121

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Product details

Overview

SA160C-E3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features a 160 V stand-off voltage (V_WM), 259 A peak pulse current (I_PPM) at 10/1000 µs, 208 V maximum clamping voltage (V_C), 500 W peak pulse power, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.

For engineers reviewing the SA160C-E3/54 datasheet, SA160C-E3/54 pinout, SA160C-E3/54 application, or SA160C-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include bi-directional surge clamping capability, DO-15 mechanical compatibility, 175 °C junction temperature rating, low incremental surge resistance, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 transient immunity standards.

Technical Context

The SA160C-E3/54 operates as a voltage-clamping device that conducts above its breakdown voltage (V_BR = 178–197 V) to divert transient energy away from protected circuitry. Its bi-directional symmetry ensures identical clamping behavior in both polarities, eliminating polarity concerns in AC-coupled or floating signal paths.

It uses a glass-passivated silicon junction for stable avalanche characteristics and fast response (<1 ns), with thermal derating defined up to 175 °C junction temperature and validated under repetitive 10/1000 µs surge waveforms at 0.01% duty cycle. The device meets JESD22-B106 solderability and JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_WM	160 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins
V_BR (min/max)	178 V / 197 V - Breakdown occurs within this range at 1 mA test current; defines turn-on threshold
V_C @ I_PPM	208 V - Clamped voltage seen across device during 259 A 10/1000 µs transient, limiting downstream stress
I_PPM	259 A - Peak surge current it safely handles without failure under standard waveform
P_PPM	500 W - Peak pulse power dissipation capability, critical for lightning or ESD event handling
T_J max	175 °C - Maximum junction temperature enabling operation in under-hood automotive environments
Package	DO-204AC (DO-15) - Industry-standard axial leaded package with UL 94 V-0 molded epoxy housing

Pinout & Package

SA160C-E3/54 is housed in a DO-204AC (DO-15) axial-leaded package with matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. As a bi-directional TVS, it has no polarity marking; both terminals are functionally symmetric.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Anode/Cathode (symmetrical)	Transient conduction path	Either terminal serves as current entry/exit point during bidirectional overvoltage events; no cathode band marking

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Bi-directional clamping	Enables protection of AC signals, differential buses, or ungrounded circuits without polarity constraints
AEC-Q101 qualification	Validated for automotive applications including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces
500 W peak pulse power	Supports robust immunity against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV line-to-earth) surges
Glass passivated junction	Ensures stable V_BR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress
UL 94 V-0 molding compound	Provides flame-retardant encapsulation required for industrial and transportation safety certifications

Applications

Automotive Power Line Protection	Industrial Sensor Interface Protection
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus or 12 V supply rails in vehicle door modules from load dump and ISO 7637-2 transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby clamping element placed between power rail and ground, activated only during overvoltage events. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤208 V during 259 A surges, preventing damage to MCU power inputs and CAN/LIN transceivers.	Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs of pressure or temperature sensors connected to PLC analog input cards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional shunt protector on signal pair (e.g., 4–20 mA loop), suppressing EFT and ESD. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping transients while adding <1 pF capacitance, avoiding bandwidth degradation.
Telecom Line Card Surge Protection	Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Protection
Use Scenario: Front-end protection on DSL or POTS line interface circuits exposed to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge diverter on tip/ring lines, coordinated with GDT or MOV secondary protection. Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to clamp 10/1000 µs surges up to 500 W, reducing let-through energy to downstream filtering stages.	Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from brushed DC motors in washing machine control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across motor terminals to absorb back-EMF spikes during commutation. Use Value: Handles repetitive 259 A pulses without degradation, extending MOSFET lifetime and reducing radiated emissions.

Automotive Power Line Protection

Industrial Sensor Interface Protection

Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus or 12 V supply rails in vehicle door modules from load dump and ISO 7637-2 transients.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby clamping element placed between power rail and ground, activated only during overvoltage events.

Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤208 V during 259 A surges, preventing damage to MCU power inputs and CAN/LIN transceivers.

Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs of pressure or temperature sensors connected to PLC analog input cards.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional shunt protector on signal pair (e.g., 4–20 mA loop), suppressing EFT and ESD.

Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping transients while adding <1 pF capacitance, avoiding bandwidth degradation.

Telecom Line Card Surge Protection

Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Protection

Use Scenario: Front-end protection on DSL or POTS line interface circuits exposed to lightning-induced surges.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge diverter on tip/ring lines, coordinated with GDT or MOV secondary protection.

Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to clamp 10/1000 µs surges up to 500 W, reducing let-through energy to downstream filtering stages.

Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from brushed DC motors in washing machine control boards.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across motor terminals to absorb back-EMF spikes during commutation.

Use Value: Handles repetitive 259 A pulses without degradation, extending MOSFET lifetime and reducing radiated emissions.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
SMAJ160CA	Same V_WM (160 V), lower P_PPM (400 W), SMA package (surface-mount)	Requires PCB rework for SMT layout; lacks AEC-Q101 qualification	Select when board space is constrained and automotive qualification is not required
1.5KE160CA	Higher P_PPM (1500 W), larger DO-201AD package, same V_WM and bi-directionality	Used in high-energy industrial mains protection; overqualified for signal-level use	Select when system-level surge testing exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4

Compared with SMAJ160CA and 1.5KE160CA, the SA160C-E3/54 offers AEC-Q101 validation and DO-15 through-hole compatibility ideal for automotive and industrial serviceable designs, while balancing surge capacity and footprint.

Availability

SA160C-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom line cards, and consumer appliance motor drives requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for SA160C-E3/54 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 passive components with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.

The SAxxC series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered for robust transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and communications systems where bi-directional clamping and AEC-Q101 compliance are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the breakdown voltage range for SA160C-E3/54?

The SA160C-E3/54 has a minimum breakdown voltage (V_BR) of 178 V and a maximum of 197 V at 1 mA test current, as specified in the Vishay datasheet document 88378. This range ensures consistent clamping onset across production lots and supports design margining for worst-case transient conditions. The SA160C-E3/54 achieves this via a precisely doped, glass-passivated silicon junction.

Is SA160C-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, SA160C-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified per the Vishay datasheet, confirming its suitability for automotive environments including powertrain, chassis, and body electronics. Its 175 °C maximum junction temperature, robust surge handling (259 A, 10/1000 µs), and DO-15 mechanical stability meet stringent automotive reliability requirements. The SA160C-E3/54 is explicitly listed in Vishay's AEC-Q101 qualified devices table.

What is the maximum clamping voltage of SA160C-E3/54 at rated peak pulse current?

The SA160C-E3/54 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 208 V when subjected to its rated 259 A peak pulse current under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured across the device terminals and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SA160C-E3/54 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.

Does SA160C-E3/54 have polarity markings?

No, SA160C-E3/54 does not have polarity markings because it is a bi-directional TVS diode. Unlike uni-directional variants (e.g., SA160A), the SA160C-E3/54 features symmetrical electrical characteristics in both directions and carries no cathode band or other orientation indicator. This allows flexible placement in AC-coupled or floating circuits without concern for lead orientation. The SA160C-E3/54 is explicitly designated for bi-directional applications in the Vishay ordering nomenclature.

What package type is used for SA160C-E3/54?

The SA160C-E3/54 is packaged in DO-204AC (also known as DO-15), an axial-leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. Its dimensions are standardized per JEDEC outline, with 0.300" ±0.070" body length and 0.140" ±0.005" diameter. The SA160C-E3/54 uses matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and passes JESD 22-B106 solder dip testing at 275 °C for 10 seconds.

SA160C-E3/54 Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Package/Case:: DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial

Series:: TransZorb®

Packaging:: Tape & Reel (TR)

Product Status:: Obsolete

Type:: Zener

Unidirectional Channels:: -

Bidirectional Channels:: 1

Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):: 160V

Voltage - Breakdown (Min):: 178V

Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:: 257V

Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):: 1.7A

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)

SA160C-E3/54 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for SA160C-E3/54 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA160C-E3/54 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 SA160C-E3/54 reliable?

The price and inventory of SA160C-E3/54 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA160C-E3/54 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for SA160C-E3/54?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA160C-E3/54 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for SA160C-E3/54?

SA160C-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your SA160C-E3/54 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 SA160C-E3/54?

For technical support, including SA160C-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA160C-E3/54 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that SA160C-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All SA160C-E3/54 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 SA160C-E3/54 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA160C-E3/54?

All SA160C-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA160C-E3/54, 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 SA160C-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for SA160C-E3/54:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

Tech Hub

2026-09-11 Comparator Circuit: Voltage Thresholds, Op-Amp Differences, LM393 and Practical Design

Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.

2026-09-10 Schmitt Trigger Explained: Hysteresis, Circuits, Inverters and Applications

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…

2026-09-09 Counterfeit Electronic Components: How to Detect, Authenticate, and Test Suspect Parts

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, …

2026-09-08 Obsolete Electronic Components: How to Source and Evaluate Replacements

A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.

2026-09-07 TTL vs CMOS Logic Levels: 74HC and 74HCT Compatibility Explained

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.

2026-09-04 Logic Level Shifter: How to Connect 3.3V and 5V Logic Safely

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.

2026-09-03 74HC595 vs TPIC6B595: Output Drive, Pinout, Current, and Load Selection

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…

2026-09-02 74HC595 Pinout, Timing, Output Current, and Applications

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…

2026-09-01 Latch vs Flip-Flop: Timing, Differences and Design Choices

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…

2026-08-30 D Latch Circuit: Truth Table, Timing, ICs and Applications

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 …