onsemi SA48CA
- Part No.:
- SA48CA
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA48CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 48VWM 77.4VC DO15
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,129
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Product details
Overview
SA48CA from Fairchild Semiconductor is a bidirectional 500 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-15 package, designed for clamping ESD and surge transients on data lines and power rails. It features a 48 V reverse stand-off voltage (VRWM), 53.3–58.9 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 77.4 V clamping voltage at 6.5 A peak pulse current, and operates up to +175 °C junction temperature.
For engineers reviewing the SA48CA datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this device is selected for robust overvoltage protection in industrial I/O, telecom interfaces, and automotive body electronics where fast response (<5 ns), low leakage (<1 µA at 48 V), and high surge capability are required.
Technical Context
The SA48CA is a glass-passivated, bidirectional TVS diode optimized for unidirectional or bidirectional transient suppression on AC-coupled or floating signal paths. Its symmetrical clamping behavior applies equally in both polarities, with identical VBR min/max, VC, and IR specifications in forward and reverse directions.
It delivers 500 W peak pulse power on the standardized 10/1000 µs waveform, supported by low incremental surge resistance and sub-5 ns response time. The device is rated for non-repetitive surge currents up to 70 A (8.3 ms half-sine) and maintains stable performance across -65 °C to +175 °C operating and storage ranges.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 µs) | 500 W - sustains high-energy surges without failure in lightning or EFT events |
| Reverse Stand-off Voltage (VRWM) | 48 V - maximum continuous working voltage before clamping begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 53.3–58.9 V @ 1.0 mA - precise voltage threshold triggering clamping action |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 77.4 V @ 6.5 A - limits downstream circuit voltage during worst-case surge |
| Peak Pulse Current (IPPM) | 6.5 A - maximum transient current the device safely diverts |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | <1 µA @ 48 V - negligible standby power loss and signal integrity impact |
| Junction Temperature Range | -65 °C to +175 °C - supports operation in harsh under-hood or industrial environments |
Pinout & Package
SA48CA is housed in a DO-15 axial-leaded package with no cathode band (standard for bidirectional TVS devices). Leads are tinned and suitable for wave or reflow soldering with 0.375" lead length derating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current sink (negative polarity) | Provides symmetrical conduction path during negative transients |
| Cathode | Transient current sink (positive polarity) | Provides symmetrical conduction path during positive transients |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enhances long-term reliability and moisture resistance in humid or contaminated environments |
| Sub-5 ns response time (bidirectional) | Ensures clamping activation before transient energy damages sensitive ICs like RS-485 transceivers |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during high di/dt events, improving clamping precision |
| 500 W peak pulse rating (10/1000 µs) | Meets IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge immunity requirements with margin |
| Zero-cathode-band marking | Unambiguous identification as bidirectional - prevents misapplication in AC or floating circuits |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Analog I/O Protection | Telecom Line Interface (xDSL/POTS) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 4–20 mA current loop inputs against induced surges from nearby motor switching or lightning coupling. IC Role / Device Role: Primary clamping element placed directly at connector entry point before signal conditioning amplifier. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤77.4 V, preserving amplifier input stage integrity and maintaining measurement accuracy post-surge. |
Use Scenario: Shields ADSL line drivers and receivers from longitudinal surges on twisted-pair telephone lines. IC Role / Device Role: Bidirectional shunt protector across differential pair, referenced to common-mode ground. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping ensures equal protection for both tip and ring conductors without polarity bias or DC offset introduction. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) LIN Bus | AC-DC Power Supply Input Stage |
Use Scenario: Safeguards LIN transceiver pins against battery dump and load-dump transients in 12 V vehicle systems. IC Role / Device Role: Secondary-level TVS placed after primary fuse and upstream of transceiver ESD diodes. Use Value: Handles 500 W surges while maintaining <1 µA leakage, avoiding false wake-up or bus contention during sleep mode. |
Use Scenario: Suppresses line-to-line and line-to-ground surges entering switch-mode power supplies via AC mains input. IC Role / Device Role: Across-the-line bidirectional clamp between L/N and L/N-to-chassis ground. Use Value: Withstands repeated 6.5 A pulses without degradation, extending capacitor and bridge rectifier lifetime under surge stress. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ48CA (Bourns) | DO-214AA package, 600 W rating, slightly lower VC (72.7 V @ 6.9 A) | Higher power density; requires PCB footprint change and thermal pad layout | Select when higher surge margin or surface-mount assembly is required |
| P6SMB48CA (ON Semiconductor) | Same DO-214AA package, identical VRWM/VBR/VC specs, 600 W rating | Not axial-leaded; incompatible with through-hole board designs using DO-15 | Choose only if migrating to SMT and redesigning layout for SMB footprint |
Compared with SMBJ48CA and P6SMB48CA, SA48CA offers proven axial-leaded reliability and direct compatibility with legacy DO-15 footprints, making it optimal for through-hole industrial controls and cost-sensitive replacements where board rework is prohibitive.
Availability
SA48CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC analog I/O protection, telecom line interface hardening, and automotive BCM LIN bus protection requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for SA48CA 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
Fairchild Semiconductor was a leading designer of high-performance analog and discrete semiconductors, acquired by ON Semiconductor in 2016; its legacy TVS portfolio remains widely deployed and supported.
The SAxxCA series was engineered specifically for robust, cost-effective transient suppression in industrial, telecom, and automotive applications where bidirectional symmetry, DO-15 compatibility, and 500 W surge handling are essential design requirements.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SA48CA and how is it measured?
The SA48CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 77.4 V, measured at 6.5 A peak pulse current on the 10/1000 µs waveform per IEC 61000-4-5. This value represents the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a defined surge event, ensuring downstream components remain within safe operating limits. The SA48CA achieves this clamping performance consistently across its full operating temperature range.
Is SA48CA unidirectional or bidirectional, and how can I identify it physically?
SA48CA is a bidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "CA" suffix and absence of a cathode color band on the DO-15 package. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SA48A), it provides symmetrical clamping in both polarities - critical for AC-coupled or floating signal lines. This bidirectional behavior is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table, where all parameters apply equally in either direction.
What is the maximum operating junction temperature for SA48CA?
The SA48CA has a maximum operating junction temperature (TJ) of +175 °C, enabling reliable use in high-temperature environments such as engine compartments, industrial enclosures, or enclosed power supplies. Its glass-passivated junction and thermal design support sustained operation at this limit, provided PCB copper area and ambient conditions meet the derating curve in Figure 2 of the datasheet.
Does SA48CA meet any industry surge immunity standards out of the box?
Yes - the SA48CA's 500 W peak pulse rating on the 10/1000 µs waveform aligns with IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV line-to-earth, 2 kV line-to-line) when properly implemented with appropriate series impedance. Its 77.4 V clamping voltage and fast <5 ns response ensure effective protection for downstream ICs in compliant system designs, including industrial control and telecom equipment.
Can SA48CA replace SA48A in an existing design?
No - SA48CA and SA48A are not interchangeable. SA48A is unidirectional with a cathode band and asymmetric conduction; SA48CA is bidirectional with no band and symmetrical clamping. Substituting one for the other risks improper protection on AC or floating nodes. Always verify circuit topology: SA48CA is required for bidirectional signal paths like RS-485, LIN, or telecom lines.
SA48CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 48V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 53.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 77.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 6.5A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 500W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-15
SA48CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA48CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA48CA 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 SA48CA reliable?
The price and inventory of SA48CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA48CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA48CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA48CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA48CA?
SA48CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA48CA 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 SA48CA?
For technical support, including SA48CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA48CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA48CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA48CA 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 SA48CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA48CA?
All SA48CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA48CA, 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 SA48CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA48CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA48CA Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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