Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA170C-E3/54
- Part No.:
- SA170C-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA170C-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 170VWM 304VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,494
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Product details
Overview
SA170C-E3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, rated for 170 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 209 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 275 V maximum clamping voltage at 1.8 A IPPM, and AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive-grade reliability. It protects signal lines and power rails in sensor interfaces and industrial control systems against ESD and inductive switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the SA170C-E3/54 datasheet, SA170C-E3/54 pinout, SA170C-E3/54 application, or SA170C-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include bi-directional clamping symmetry, 170 V VWM compatibility with 24 V–48 V bus systems, low 1.0 μA reverse leakage at VWM, and DO-15 mechanical compatibility with legacy PCB footprints.
Technical Context
The SA170C-E3/54 operates as a bi-directional avalanche diode, exhibiting symmetrical breakdown and clamping behavior in both polarities-enabling protection of AC-coupled or floating signal paths without polarity constraints. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for consistent transient suppression across temperature.
Designed for repetitive 10/1000 μs surge events at 0.01 % duty cycle, it delivers 275 V clamping at 1.8 A peak pulse current while maintaining TJ ≤ 175 °C under worst-case thermal conditions. The device meets JESD22-B106 solderability and JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements, confirming robustness for automated assembly.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 170 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; sets upper limit for protected line voltage. |
| VBR (min) | 189 V - Minimum breakdown voltage at 1 mA test current; guarantees reliable turn-on above normal operating range. |
| VC @ IPPM | 275 V - Clamping voltage at 1.8 A peak pulse current (10/1000 μs); defines worst-case voltage seen by downstream circuitry. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling capability; determines survivability against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| ID @ VWM | 1.0 μA - Reverse leakage at rated stand-off voltage; ensures minimal quiescent power loss and signal integrity. |
| TJ max | 175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and high-ambient industrial enclosures. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive electronics per stress-test requirements including HTOL, TCT, and ESD HBM/MM. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0. Bi-directional construction means no polarity marking; both leads are electrically symmetric terminals.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Either lead serves as current entry/exit point during bidirectional clamping; no cathode band or polarity identification required. |
| Leads (matte tin plated) | PCB interface and thermal path | Solderable per J-STD-002; provides mechanical anchoring and limited heat dissipation to board copper. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR over lifetime and immunity to humidity-induced parameter drift in harsh environments. |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity up to 4 kV (open-circuit) in 2 Ω source impedance configurations. |
| Bi-directional configuration | Eliminates need for polarity-aware layout; suitable for differential buses, AC signals, and ungrounded sensor outputs. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates reliability for automotive body electronics, ADAS sensor interfaces, and infotainment power domains. |
| RoHS-compliant E3 suffix | Meets JEDEC JS709A halogen-free and EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements for green manufacturing. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC Analog Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN FD or LIN transceiver data lines from load-dump and jump-start induced transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional TVS clamp placed directly at connector entry to shunt surge energy before reaching transceiver IC. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity with 275 V clamping at 1.8 A, preventing latch-up or damage to 3.3 V/5 V interface logic under ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 4–20 mA current-loop inputs in programmable logic controllers exposed to field wiring surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff protection element across input terminals to limit voltage excursion during 1 kV/500 A surge events. Use Value: 170 V VWM aligns with 24 V system rails while allowing margin for ripple; 1.0 μA leakage avoids measurement error in precision current sensing. |
| Telecom Line Card Protection | Consumer Appliance Motor Control |
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY magnetics or DSL line drivers from lightning-induced surges on outdoor-facing ports. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS on secondary side of isolation transformer to absorb common-mode transients. Use Value: Symmetrical bi-directional response ensures equal clamping for positive/negative surge polarity, preserving signal balance in differential pairs. | Use Scenario: Suppressing commutation spikes from brushed DC motors in washing machines or HVAC blowers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Across motor terminals to clamp inductive kickback before it couples into MCU power or signal lines. Use Value: 500 W rating handles repetitive 10 ms half-sine surges (per JESD22-A112), extending MCU lifespan in high-cycle appliance applications. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ170CA | Same VWM (170 V), identical DO-214AC package, but lower PPPM (400 W) and higher VC (277 V at 1.8 A). | Less robust for high-energy surges; suited for space-constrained layouts where SMA footprint is preferred over DO-15. | Select SMAJ170CA only if board area is constrained and surge threat level is below IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3. |
| P6SMB170CA | Same VWM and bi-directionality, but DO-214AA package, 600 W PPPM, and tighter VBR tolerance (±5 % vs. ±5 %), with VC = 275 V at 1.9 A. | Higher surge margin and same clamping performance; requires different pad layout due to wider DO-214AA body. | Choose P6SMB170CA when higher pulse power headroom is needed and PCB redesign for DO-214AA is acceptable. |
Compared with SA170C-E3/54, SMAJ170CA trades 100 W peak power for smaller footprint, while P6SMB170CA offers +100 W margin in same VWM class but demands larger board area-making SA170C-E3/54 optimal for cost-sensitive, AEC-Q101–required DO-15 designs.
Availability
SA170C-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial analog input conditioning, and telecom line card surge hardening requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA170C-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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, automotive qualification, and high-volume manufacturability.
The SAxxxC series is designed specifically for robust, standardized transient voltage suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure-delivering consistent clamping performance across wide temperature ranges and surge profiles.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SA170C-E3/54 at its rated peak pulse current?
The SA170C-E3/54 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 275 V at 1.8 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured across the device terminals during transient conduction and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SA170C-E3/54 maintains this clamping performance consistently across its operational temperature range.
Is SA170C-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SA170C-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive use. Its glass-passivated junction, 175 °C maximum junction temperature, and validation across high-temperature operating life (HTOL), temperature cycling (TCT), and ESD tests confirm suitability for under-hood and cabin ECU applications. The SA170C-E3/54 meets requirements for protecting CAN, LIN, and sensor interfaces in production vehicles.
Does SA170C-E3/54 have polarity markings?
No, SA170C-E3/54 is a bi-directional TVS diode and carries no polarity marking on its DO-204AC (DO-15) package. Both leads are functionally identical, enabling installation without orientation concerns-ideal for differential signal lines, AC-coupled paths, or floating grounds. This contrasts with uni-directional variants like SA170A-E3/54, which feature a cathode band.
What is the reverse leakage current of SA170C-E3/54 at its stand-off voltage?
At its rated 170 V stand-off voltage (VWM), the SA170C-E3/54 exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 μA at 25 °C. This low leakage preserves signal fidelity in high-impedance circuits and minimizes standby power loss in battery-operated systems. Leakage remains within specification up to TJ = 125 °C, with typical values below 0.5 μA at room temperature.
Can SA170C-E3/54 be used in place of SA170A-E3/54?
No-SA170C-E3/54 is bi-directional while SA170A-E3/54 is uni-directional, making them functionally incompatible without circuit redesign. Substituting SA170C-E3/54 for SA170A-E3/54 removes polarity dependence but introduces symmetrical conduction that may interfere with DC-biased lines. The SA170C-E3/54 must only replace other CA-suffix parts, and layout review is required to verify absence of forward-bias constraints.
SA170C-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):
- 170V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 189V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 304V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1.6A
- 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)
SA170C-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA170C-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA170C-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 SA170C-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA170C-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 SA170C-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA170C-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA170C-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA170C-E3/54?
SA170C-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA170C-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 SA170C-E3/54?
For technical support, including SA170C-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA170C-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA170C-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA170C-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 SA170C-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA170C-E3/54?
All SA170C-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA170C-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 SA170C-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA170C-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA170C-E3/54 Tags

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