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

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA16C-E3/73

Name: SA16C-E3/73
Brand: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
SKU: SA16C-E3/73
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: SA16C-E3/73

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Category:: TVS Diodes

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

Datasheet:: SA16C-E3/73.pdf

Description:: TVS DIODE 16VWM 28.8VC DO204AC

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Product details

Overview

SA16C-E3/73 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 16 V stand-off voltage (V_WM), 17.8–19.7 V breakdown voltage (V_BR) at 1 mA, 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 26.0 V maximum clamping voltage (V_C) at 19.2 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.

For engineers reviewing the SA16C-E3/73 datasheet, SA16C-E3/73 pinout, SA16C-E3/73 application, or SA16C-E3/73 equivalent, this device is selected for robust overvoltage protection in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O ports, and telecom line circuits where bidirectional surge immunity and low clamping voltage are critical.

Technical Context

This bi-directional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics in forward and reverse directions - confirmed by V_BR min/max and V_C values matching for positive and negative surges. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<1.0 µA at V_WM) and fast response time (<1 ns), enabling effective suppression of ESD and inductive switching transients.

The device is rated for 175 °C maximum junction temperature and supports repetitive 10/1000 µs surge pulses at 0.01% duty cycle. Its 3.0 W steady-state power dissipation (at T_L = 75 °C) and 275 °C solder dip tolerance (10 s) confirm suitability for reflow and wave soldering in high-reliability manufacturing.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_WM	16 V - Maximum continuous reverse/forward working voltage before clamping begins; defines safe operating margin below breakdown.
V_BR (min/max)	17.8 V / 19.7 V at I_T = 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown threshold range; ensures predictable turn-on during transient events.
V_C @ I_PPM	26.0 V at 19.2 A - Clamped voltage under 500 W 10/1000 µs surge; directly limits stress on downstream ICs or MOSFETs.
I_PPM	19.2 A - Peak pulse current capability; determines survivability against defined surge waveforms per IEC 61000-4-5.
P_PPM	500 W - Peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs); sets energy-handling capacity for transient suppression.
T_J max	175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive or industrial ambient environments.
AEC-Q101	Qualified - Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTOL, TC, and ESD.

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0. Matte tin-plated leads; no polarity marking (bi-directional).

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Anode/Cathode (symmetrical)	Bi-directional surge conduction path	No functional distinction between terminals; either lead may connect to protected line or ground - simplifies PCB layout and eliminates orientation errors.
Leads (both)	Thermal and electrical interface	Supports 275 °C solder dip (10 s); enables reliable through-hole assembly and heat dissipation via PCB copper pour or lead frame.

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Glass-passivated chip junction	Ensures stable leakage current (<1.0 µA at V_WM) and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure.
500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs)	Provides robust protection against lightning-induced surges and inductive load switching transients in industrial and automotive systems.
AEC-Q101 qualification	Validates suitability for automotive applications including engine control modules, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces.
Low incremental clamping resistance	Enables tight V_C – V_BR margin (ΔV = 8.2 V), minimizing voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients.
RoHS-compliant E3 suffix	Meets JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance; suitable for commercial and automotive production without lead-free process concerns.

Applications

Automotive Sensor Protection	Industrial Digital I/O Protection
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN, LIN, or analog sensor lines (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ESD in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional clamping element placed between signal line and chassis ground to shunt transients before reaching MCU or analog front-end. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to 26.0 V, safeguarding 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs and ensuring AEC-Q100 compliance for connected sensors.	Use Scenario: Shielding PLC digital input channels from field-induced surges in factory automation equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on 24 V DC input lines, coordinated with series impedance and filtering. Use Value: Withstands repeated 500 W surges while maintaining <1.0 µA leakage at 16 V, preserving input logic thresholds and system uptime.
Telecom Line Interface	Power Supply Rail Clamp
Use Scenario: Surge protection on RS-485/RS-232 data lines in base station backhaul or network edge devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response bi-directional suppressor bridging differential pair to ground, complementing common-mode chokes. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response and symmetrical V_BR ensure balanced clamping on both lines, preventing data corruption during 8/20 µs transients.	Use Scenario: Secondary overvoltage clamp on 12–24 V DC power rails feeding microcontrollers or motor drivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Last-line defense against supply rail transients caused by relay switching or hot-plug events. Use Value: Clamps 19.2 A surges to ≤26.0 V, preventing latch-up or damage to downstream regulators and PMICs without crowbar action.

Automotive Sensor Protection

Industrial Digital I/O Protection

Use Scenario: Protecting CAN, LIN, or analog sensor lines (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ESD in vehicle ECUs.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional clamping element placed between signal line and chassis ground to shunt transients before reaching MCU or analog front-end.

Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to 26.0 V, safeguarding 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs and ensuring AEC-Q100 compliance for connected sensors.

Use Scenario: Shielding PLC digital input channels from field-induced surges in factory automation equipment.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on 24 V DC input lines, coordinated with series impedance and filtering.

Use Value: Withstands repeated 500 W surges while maintaining <1.0 µA leakage at 16 V, preserving input logic thresholds and system uptime.

Telecom Line Interface

Power Supply Rail Clamp

Use Scenario: Surge protection on RS-485/RS-232 data lines in base station backhaul or network edge devices.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response bi-directional suppressor bridging differential pair to ground, complementing common-mode chokes.

Use Value: Sub-1 ns response and symmetrical V_BR ensure balanced clamping on both lines, preventing data corruption during 8/20 µs transients.

Use Scenario: Secondary overvoltage clamp on 12–24 V DC power rails feeding microcontrollers or motor drivers.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Last-line defense against supply rail transients caused by relay switching or hot-plug events.

Use Value: Clamps 19.2 A surges to ≤26.0 V, preventing latch-up or damage to downstream regulators and PMICs without crowbar action.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
SMAJ16CA	Same V_WM (16 V), lower P_PPM (400 W), SMA package (surface-mount), higher V_C (26.0 V → 27.7 V at 14.4 A).	Preferred for space-constrained PCBs; less suited for high-energy 10/1000 µs surges requiring full 500 W rating.	Select SMAJ16CA only when board area is critical and surge energy remains within 400 W limit.
1.5KE16CA	Same V_WM (16 V), higher P_PPM (1500 W), DO-201AD package, larger footprint, higher V_C (28.5 V at 52.8 A).	Better for high-energy lightning surges; over-spec'd for typical automotive or I/O protection where size and cost matter.	Choose 1.5KE16CA only when system-level testing requires >500 W surge margin and DO-201AD mounting is acceptable.

Compared with SA16C-E3/73, SMAJ16CA trades peak power and through-hole robustness for compactness, while 1.5KE16CA delivers higher surge capacity at the expense of board space and thermal mass - making SA16C-E3/73 the optimal balance of 500 W capability, AEC-Q101 validation, and DO-15 manufacturability.

Availability

SA16C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line protection requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 assurance.

Supply support for SA16C-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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and automotive-grade qualification.

The SAxxC series is engineered specifically for bi-directional transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where symmetrical clamping and AEC-Q101 compliance are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the polarity configuration of SA16C-E3/73?

The SA16C-E3/73 is a bi-directional TVS diode with no polarity marking on the DO-204AC package. Both leads are functionally identical, allowing symmetrical connection across any two points needing transient suppression - such as between a signal line and ground, or across differential pairs. This eliminates orientation errors during assembly and ensures consistent clamping in either direction.

Is SA16C-E3/73 qualified for automotive use?

Yes, SA16C-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed in Vishay's official documentation (Document Number: 88378, Revision: 18-Sep-12). This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and ESD, validating its use in automotive ECUs, body control modules, and sensor interfaces where reliability under thermal and electrical stress is critical.

What is the maximum clamping voltage of SA16C-E3/73 under surge conditions?

The SA16C-E3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 26.0 V at 19.2 A, measured under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value represents the peak voltage seen across the device during a 500 W transient event and directly determines the voltage stress imposed on downstream components like MCUs or transceivers.

How does SA16C-E3/73 differ from uni-directional SA16A-E3/73?

The SA16C-E3/73 is bi-directional with symmetrical breakdown and clamping behavior in both polarities, whereas SA16A-E3/73 is uni-directional and features a cathode band marking. SA16C-E3/73 exhibits identical V_BR (17.8–19.7 V) and V_C (26.0 V) in forward and reverse, making it ideal for AC-coupled or floating signal lines - unlike SA16A-E3/73, which conducts only in reverse bias.

What packaging and plating specifications apply to SA16C-E3/73?

SA16C-E3/73 uses a DO-204AC (DO-15) package with matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. The E3 suffix confirms RoHS compliance and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance. It supports solder dip up to 275 °C for 10 seconds, enabling compatibility with standard wave and selective soldering processes.

SA16C-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:: -

Bidirectional Channels:: 1

Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):: 16V

Voltage - Breakdown (Min):: 17.8V

Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:: 28.8V

Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):: 17.4A

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)

SA16C-E3/73 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for SA16C-E3/73 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA16C-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 SA16C-E3/73 reliable?

The price and inventory of SA16C-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 SA16C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for SA16C-E3/73?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA16C-E3/73 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for SA16C-E3/73?

SA16C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your SA16C-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 SA16C-E3/73?

For technical support, including SA16C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA16C-E3/73 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that SA16C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All SA16C-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 SA16C-E3/73 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA16C-E3/73?

All SA16C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA16C-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 SA16C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for SA16C-E3/73:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

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

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