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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA20CA-E3/54
- Part No.:
- SA20CA-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA20CA-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 20VWM 32.4VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,407
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Product details
Overview
SA20CA-E3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-15 package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 22.2 V to 24.5 V breakdown voltage at 1 mA, 20 V stand-off voltage, 15.4 A peak pulse current, and clamps to ≤32.4 V at rated surge. It is AEC-Q101 qualified and used in automotive sensor line protection.
For engineers reviewing the SA20CA-E3/54 datasheet, SA20CA-E3/54 pinout, SA20CA-E3/54 application, or SA20CA-E3/54 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, DO-15 terminal mapping, bidirectional clamping behavior, thermal derating curves, and direct alternatives for ESD/surge protection in 12 V automotive and industrial control systems.
Technical Context
The SA20CA-E3/54 operates as a symmetrical avalanche diode with identical forward and reverse breakdown characteristics, enabling bidirectional transient suppression without polarity sensitivity. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR and low leakage (<1.0 μA at 20 V), while its 175 °C max junction temperature supports under-hood deployment.
It responds to transients within picoseconds and maintains clamping performance across -55 °C to +175 °C ambient, with thermal derating starting above 25 °C per Fig. 2 and steady-state power dissipation limited to 3.0 W at 75 °C lead temperature (Fig. 5). The device meets JESD22-B106 solderability and JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines safe operating window for 12 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 22.2 V / 24.5 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering above system overvoltage thresholds. |
| IPPM | 15.4 A (10/1000 μs) - Peak surge current handling capacity; determines survivability against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a events. |
| VC | ≤32.4 V at IPPM - Clamped voltage during full-rated surge; guarantees downstream ICs see <33 V stress. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power rating; validates robustness against repetitive transients at 0.01 % duty cycle. |
| TJ max | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables placement near heat sources in engine control units. |
| Package | DO-15 (DO-204AC) - Standard axial-leaded through-hole package; compatible with legacy PCB layouts and wave-solder processes. |
Pinout & Package
SA20CA-E3/54 uses the DO-15 (DO-204AC) molded epoxy package with matte tin-plated leads. No polarity marking is present, consistent with bidirectional operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche junction | Either lead serves as input/output; no cathode band - enables orientation-agnostic PCB placement. |
| Lead 1 | Terminal A | Connected directly to P+ region of silicon die; forms one side of symmetrical PN junction. |
| Lead 2 | Terminal B | Connected directly to N+ region of silicon die; completes bidirectional conduction path. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated chip junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates suitability for automotive powertrain and body electronics per stress test requirements (HTOL, TC, AC, etc.). |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands high-energy transients such as load dump surges without degradation or parametric shift. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ISO 10605 ESD), improving clamping fidelity. |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Provides flame-retardant encapsulation required for automotive and industrial safety compliance. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., MAP, O2, throttle position) from inductive switching spikes and jump-start surges in 12 V vehicle systems. IC Role / Device Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed between signal line and ground or supply rail. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤32.4 V, preventing damage to 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs while maintaining signal integrity during normal operation. | Use Scenario: Shielding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers from field-wiring induced surges (e.g., relay coil flyback, motor contactor switching). IC Role / Device Role: Primary surge suppression device mounted at connector entry point on DIN-rail mounted I/O cards. Use Value: Absorbs up to 500 W pulses without failure, enabling >100,000 surge cycles per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 compliance. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input | Telecom Line Interface Protection |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding AC-DC adapter primary-side rectifier and controller ICs against lightning-induced surges on mains input. IC Role / Device Role: Secondary-level TVS placed across bridge rectifier output or bulk capacitor. Use Value: Clamps 10/1000 μs surges to ≤32.4 V, preventing overvoltage latch-up in PWM controllers and MOSFET drivers. | Use Scenario: Protecting Ethernet PHY or RS-485 transceivers connected to outdoor cabling exposed to induced lightning currents. IC Role / Device Role: Line-to-ground TVS on differential pair inputs of communication interface ICs. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping ensures equal protection on both signal polarities, critical for full-duplex data links. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20CA | Same VWM (20 V), lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (surface-mount) | Requires PCB rework for SMT layout; not drop-in for through-hole DO-15 footprints. | Select when board space is constrained and reflow assembly is available. |
| 1.5KE20CA | Same VWM (20 V), higher PPPM (1500 W), DO-201 package (larger axial) | Higher surge margin but requires larger board area and different mounting tooling. | Select when system-level surge testing exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 requirements. |
Compared with SMAJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, the SA20CA-E3/54 offers optimal balance of 500 W surge capability, DO-15 footprint compatibility, and AEC-Q101 qualification-making it ideal for cost-sensitive, high-volume automotive and industrial through-hole designs where qualification and proven reliability are mandatory.
Availability
SA20CA-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, consumer power adapter inputs, and telecom line interface protection requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for SA20CA-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 optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability and automotive-grade qualification.
The SAxxCA series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for bidirectional transient suppression in harsh environments including automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage range of the SA20CA-E3/54?
The SA20CA-E3/54 has a minimum breakdown voltage (VBR) of 22.2 V and a maximum of 24.5 V at 1 mA test current, as specified in the Vishay datasheet (Doc. #88378, Rev. 27-Sep-2021). This range ensures consistent avalanche triggering above its 20 V stand-off voltage while accommodating process variation. The SA20CA-E3/54 maintains this specification across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SA20CA-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SA20CA-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified (per note on page 3 of Vishay Doc. #88378), making it suitable for automotive applications including engine control units, body electronics, and sensor interfaces. Its DO-15 package, 175 °C max junction temperature, and robust surge performance align with automotive environmental and reliability requirements. The SA20CA-E3/54 is explicitly referenced in Vishay's automotive-grade TVS selection guides.
Does the SA20CA-E3/54 have polarity markings?
No, the SA20CA-E3/54 does not have polarity markings because it is a bidirectional TVS diode. As stated in the "Mechanical Data" section of the Vishay datasheet, "no marking on bidirectional types." Either lead may be connected to signal or ground, enabling flexible PCB layout without orientation constraints. This symmetry is intrinsic to the SA20CA-E3/54's internal structure.
What is the clamping voltage of the SA20CA-E3/54 at its rated peak pulse current?
The SA20CA-E3/54 clamps to a maximum of 32.4 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 15.4 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform, per the "Electrical Characteristics" table on page 2 of Vishay Doc. #88378. This value represents worst-case voltage seen by protected circuitry during full-rated surge events and is critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The SA20CA-E3/54 achieves this with low dynamic impedance.
Can the SA20CA-E3/54 replace unidirectional TVS diodes like SA20A-E3/54?
No-the SA20CA-E3/54 is strictly bidirectional and cannot replace unidirectional types like SA20A-E3/54 in circuits requiring DC blocking or polarity-specific clamping (e.g., single-rail power supply protection). While both share VWM = 20 V and similar surge ratings, the SA20CA-E3/54 conducts in both directions, whereas SA20A-E3/54 blocks reverse current. Substitution would require schematic and layout review to confirm bidirectional operation is acceptable. The SA20CA-E3/54 is not a functional drop-in for unidirectional designs.
SA20CA-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:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 20V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 22.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 32.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 15.4A
- 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)
SA20CA-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA20CA-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA20CA-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 SA20CA-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA20CA-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 SA20CA-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA20CA-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA20CA-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA20CA-E3/54?
SA20CA-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA20CA-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 SA20CA-E3/54?
For technical support, including SA20CA-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA20CA-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA20CA-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA20CA-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 SA20CA-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA20CA-E3/54?
All SA20CA-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA20CA-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 SA20CA-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA20CA-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA20CA-E3/54 Tags
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