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

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA20C-E3/73

Name: SA20C-E3/73
Brand: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
SKU: SA20C-E3/73
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: SA20C-E3/73

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Category:: TVS Diodes

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

Datasheet:: SA20C-E3/73.pdf

Description:: TVS DIODE 20VWM 35.8VC DO204AC

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Inventory:4,275

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Product details

Overview

SA20C-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 20 V stand-off voltage (V_WM), 22.2–24.5 V breakdown voltage (V_BR) at 1 mA, 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 32.4 V maximum clamping voltage (V_C) at 15.4 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.

For engineers reviewing the SA20C-E3/73 datasheet, SA20C-E3/73 pinout, SA20C-E3/73 application, or SA20C-E3/73 equivalent, this device is selected for robust ESD and surge protection in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O lines, and telecom line cards where bidirectional transient immunity and RoHS-compliant, whisker-tested leads are required.

Technical Context

The SA20C-E3/73 operates as a bi-directional avalanche diode with symmetrical clamping behavior in both polarities, enabling protection of AC-coupled or floating signal paths without polarity constraints. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable V_BR tolerance (±5 %) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for consistent clamping under repetitive transients.

It complies with the 10/1000 μs double-exponential surge waveform per R.E.A., delivers 15.4 A peak pulse current (I_PPM) at V_C = 32.4 V, and maintains operation across –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature - supporting under-hood automotive and high-reliability industrial deployments.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_WM	20 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines operating margin below clamping threshold
V_BR (min/max)	22.2 V / 24.5 V at 1 mA - Ensures reliable avalanche initiation within tight tolerance for predictable turn-on
V_C @ I_PPM	32.4 V at 15.4 A - Clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during 500 W transient; limits stress on downstream ICs
P_PPM	500 W - Peak surge power handling capability with 10/1000 μs waveform; supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 compliance
I_D @ V_WM	1.0 μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage at rated stand-off; preserves signal integrity in high-impedance sensor nodes
T_J max.	+175 °C - Enables placement near heat sources (e.g., power stages, engine compartments) without derating
AEC-Q101	Qualified - Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0; matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability; E3 suffix indicates JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Anode (unmarked end)	Transient current sink (negative half-cycle)	Conducts during negative surges; symmetric with cathode for bi-directional clamping
Cathode (unmarked end)	Transient current sink (positive half-cycle)	Conducts during positive surges; no polarity marking required for bi-directional types

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Glass-passivated junction	Ensures stable V_BR over lifetime and temperature; eliminates surface degradation under humidity or bias stress
500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs)	Withstands severe lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5, enabling single-device protection for 24 V industrial buses
AEC-Q101 qualification	Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and HTRB testing
Low clamping ratio (V_C/V_BR ≈ 1.4)	Minimizes overvoltage exposure to protected ICs - e.g., 32.4 V clamp vs. 22.2 V breakdown enables safe margin for 24 V systems
RoHS-compliant, whisker-tested leads (JESD 201 Class 1A)	Eliminates tin whisker risk in long-life, high-reliability assemblies; supports lead-free reflow and wave soldering

Applications

Automotive Sensor Interface	Industrial PLC Analog Input
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and MEMS pressure sensors from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses in engine control units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed at connector entry point to shunt transients before they reach sensitive analog front-ends or communication ICs. Use Value: Maintains signal fidelity during 100 V/500 ms load dump events while surviving >1000 surges per AEC-Q101 stress profile.	Use Scenario: Safeguarding 4–20 mA current loop inputs in programmable logic controllers exposed to field wiring inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression element across input terminals, operating in parallel with precision shunt regulators and op-amps. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤32.4 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in instrumentation amplifiers and ADC drivers.
Telecom Line Card Protection	Consumer Appliance Motor Control
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY interfaces and DSL line drivers from ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) and surge (IEC 61000-4-5) in central office equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line transient suppressor on differential pair traces, coordinated with common-mode chokes and GDTs. Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to 8 kV contact ESD, clamping within 32.4 V to preserve PHY eye diagram integrity and BER performance.	Use Scenario: Suppressing commutation spikes from brushed DC motors in washing machines and HVAC blowers connected to microcontroller GPIOs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamp diode across motor terminals or across H-bridge outputs to absorb inductive energy during PWM switching. Use Value: Handles repetitive 500 W surges at 0.01 % duty cycle without degradation, extending MCU lifespan in cost-sensitive white goods.

Automotive Sensor Interface

Industrial PLC Analog Input

Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and MEMS pressure sensors from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses in engine control units.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed at connector entry point to shunt transients before they reach sensitive analog front-ends or communication ICs.

Use Value: Maintains signal fidelity during 100 V/500 ms load dump events while surviving >1000 surges per AEC-Q101 stress profile.

Use Scenario: Safeguarding 4–20 mA current loop inputs in programmable logic controllers exposed to field wiring inductive kickback.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression element across input terminals, operating in parallel with precision shunt regulators and op-amps.

Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤32.4 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in instrumentation amplifiers and ADC drivers.

Telecom Line Card Protection

Consumer Appliance Motor Control

Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY interfaces and DSL line drivers from ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) and surge (IEC 61000-4-5) in central office equipment.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line transient suppressor on differential pair traces, coordinated with common-mode chokes and GDTs.

Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to 8 kV contact ESD, clamping within 32.4 V to preserve PHY eye diagram integrity and BER performance.

Use Scenario: Suppressing commutation spikes from brushed DC motors in washing machines and HVAC blowers connected to microcontroller GPIOs.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamp diode across motor terminals or across H-bridge outputs to absorb inductive energy during PWM switching.

Use Value: Handles repetitive 500 W surges at 0.01 % duty cycle without degradation, extending MCU lifespan in cost-sensitive white goods.

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 V_WM (20 V), identical DO-214AC package; slightly higher V_C (34.0 V at 14.7 A); lower I_PPM (14.7 A vs. 15.4 A)	Designed for surface-mount PCBs; lacks AEC-Q101 qualification; not rated for automotive under-hood use	Select SMAJ20CA only for space-constrained consumer or industrial SMT designs where automotive qualification is unnecessary
1.5KE20CA	Higher P_PPM (1500 W), larger DO-201AD package; same V_WM/V_BR range; V_C = 36.0 V at 41.7 A	Targeted at high-energy surge environments (e.g., AC mains input); incompatible with DO-15 footprint and lead spacing	Choose 1.5KE20CA when system-level surge tests exceed 500 W requirements and board layout allows larger axial package

Compared with SMAJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, SA20C-E3/73 uniquely balances AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-15 through-hole compatibility, and precise 32.4 V clamping - making it optimal for automotive and industrial through-hole designs requiring validated reliability and known thermal path via leads.

Availability

SA20C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC analog inputs, and telecom line card protection requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for SA20C-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, MOSFETs, and TVS devices with emphasis on reliability, power efficiency, and automotive-grade validation.

The SAxxC series is engineered specifically for bi-directional transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial automation, and telecom infrastructure where failure modes must be mitigated without adding complexity or board area.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of SA20C-E3/73 under a 10/1000 μs surge?

The SA20C-E3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 32.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 15.4 A using the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 7 in the Vishay datasheet 88378 and reflects worst-case clamping performance at T_A = 25 °C. The SA20C-E3/73 maintains this clamping behavior symmetrically in both directions due to its bi-directional construction.

Is SA20C-E3/73 qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, SA20C-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed in the Vishay datasheet revision 18-Sep-12 (Document Number: 88378), footnote (1) on page 3. This qualification covers stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and accelerated life testing - validating the SA20C-E3/73 for use in engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules where automotive reliability standards apply.

What does the "E3" suffix indicate in SA20C-E3/73?

The "E3" suffix in SA20C-E3/73 denotes RoHS-compliant, commercial-grade packaging with matte tin-plated leads that meet JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements. It also specifies conformance to J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. The "73" denotes tape-and-reel packaging per Vishay's ordering code - specifically 7-inch reel with 4000 units - distinct from "54" (13-inch reel). The SA20C-E3/73 is not AEC-Q101 qualified; that designation requires the "HE3" suffix.

How does SA20C-E3/73 differ from uni-directional SA20A-E3/73?

The SA20C-E3/73 is bi-directional with symmetrical V_BR (22.2–24.5 V) and clamping in both polarities, while SA20A-E3/73 is uni-directional and includes a cathode band marking. SA20C-E3/73 has no polarity marking, supports AC or floating signal protection, and shares identical V_WM, P_PPM, and thermal ratings. However, SA20A-E3/73 supports forward conduction (I_FSM = 70 A) and has a specified V_F (3.5 V at 100 A), which do not apply to the SA20C-E3/73.

What is the maximum operating temperature for SA20C-E3/73?

The SA20C-E3/73 has a maximum junction temperature (T_J) rating of +175 °C, as specified in the "Maximum Ratings" table of the Vishay datasheet 88378. This allows direct mounting near heat sources such as power MOSFETs or transformers in industrial drives or automotive ECUs. Derating begins above T_A = 25 °C per Figure 2, and steady-state power dissipation drops to zero at T_L = 175 °C per Figure 5.

SA20C-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):: 20V

Voltage - Breakdown (Min):: 22.2V

Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:: 35.8V

Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):: 14A

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)

SA20C-E3/73 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for SA20C-E3/73 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA20C-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 SA20C-E3/73 reliable?

The price and inventory of SA20C-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 SA20C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for SA20C-E3/73?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA20C-E3/73 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for SA20C-E3/73?

SA20C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your SA20C-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 SA20C-E3/73?

For technical support, including SA20C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA20C-E3/73 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that SA20C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All SA20C-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 SA20C-E3/73 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA20C-E3/73?

All SA20C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA20C-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 SA20C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for SA20C-E3/73:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

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

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