onsemi SA6.0CARL

Overview

SA6.0CARL from ON Semiconductor is a bidirectional 500 W MiniMOSORB™ Zener transient voltage suppressor in axial leaded Surmetic package (Case 59), with 6.0 V working peak reverse voltage (VRWM), 10.3 V clamping voltage at 48.5 A peak pulse current, and <1 ns response time. It protects communication systems, medical equipment, and industrial power supplies against ESD and lightning-induced surges.

For engineers reviewing the SA6.0CARL datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include VRWM ≥ circuit operating voltage, clamping voltage margin relative to IC absolute maximum ratings, UL 497B certification for isolated loop protection, and axial-leaded tape-and-reel availability for automated assembly.

Technical Context

The SA6.0CARL operates as a bidirectional TVS diode, symmetrically clamping both positive and negative transients without polarity dependence-cathode band denotes marking only, not functional polarity. Its Zener-based avalanche structure delivers low dynamic impedance and stable breakdown at 6.67–7.37 V (tested at 10 mA).

It sustains 500 W nonrepetitive peak pulse power per 1 ms waveform (Figure 3), derates linearly above 25°C ambient, and maintains <1 µA leakage below VRWM while exhibiting ±5 mV/°C temperature coefficient of VBR-critical for stable clamping across −55°C to +175°C operating range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SA6.0CARL uses an axial-leaded Surmetic plastic package (Case 59–09), void-free transfer-molded thermosetting construction with corrosion-resistant, solderable leads. Mounting position is unrestricted; maximum soldering temperature is 230°C at 1/16″ from case for 10 seconds.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMA6.0A and P6KE6.0CA, SA6.0CARL offers optimal balance of bidirectional protection, compact Case 59 axial form factor, tape-and-reel packaging for SMT placement, and validated UL 497B compliance-making it preferred for new industrial and medical designs requiring automated assembly and regulatory traceability.

Availability

SA6.0CARL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, medical diagnostic interfaces, communication gateways, and numerical control systems requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for SA6.0CARL 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

ON Semiconductor (now onsemi) is a global semiconductor supplier specializing in energy-efficient power management, analog, sensor, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and medical markets.

The SA5.0CA Series-including SA6.0CARL-is part of ON Semiconductor's MiniMOSORB™ TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for high-reliability transient suppression in harsh electromagnetic environments where UL-certified isolation and repeatable clamping performance are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of SA6.0CARL at its rated peak pulse current?

The SA6.0CARL has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 10.3 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 48.5 A under the standard 1 ms exponential waveform (per Figure 3). This value is measured at TA = 25°C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events-critical for ensuring compatibility with 5 V logic families and low-voltage analog components downstream of the SA6.0CARL.

Is SA6.0CARL suitable for bidirectional signal lines like RS-485 or CAN bus?

Yes, SA6.0CARL is explicitly designed as a bidirectional TVS diode, making it appropriate for protecting balanced differential interfaces such as RS-485 and CAN bus. Its symmetrical Zener structure clamps both positive- and negative-going transients equally without polarity constraints-the cathode band serves only as a marking reference. This eliminates the need for dual unidirectional devices or external polarity management circuitry in AC-coupled or floating applications.

Does SA6.0CARL have UL certification, and what does it cover?

Yes, SA6.0CARL carries UL 497B recognition (File #E116110, category QVGV2) for isolated loop circuit protection. This certification validates performance across multiple safety-critical tests including strike voltage breakdown, endurance conditioning, temperature cycling, dielectric voltage-withstand, and discharge testing-not just flammability of the package material. It confirms suitability for use in medical equipment, process controls, and other applications requiring certified surge protection on isolated signal paths.

What is the thermal resistance and steady-state power rating of SA6.0CARL?

SA6.0CARL has a junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RJL) of 33.3°C/W and a steady-state power dissipation (PD) of 3.0 W at TL ≤ 75°C with 3/8″ lead length. Power derates linearly above 75°C at 30 mW/°C. These values define its ability to dissipate residual leakage or low-duty-cycle transients continuously-important for thermal design in enclosed industrial enclosures where ambient temperatures may exceed 75°C.

How does the SA6.0CARL differ from the SA6.0CA variant?

The SA6.0CARL is the tape-and-reel packaged version of the SA6.0CA, both sharing identical electrical specifications, Case 59 axial package dimensions, and UL 497B certification. The "RL" suffix indicates 5,000 units per reel-optimized for automated SMT placement-whereas SA6.0CA is supplied in 1,000-unit boxes. No electrical or thermal differences exist between SA6.0CA and SA6.0CARL; the distinction is purely packaging and logistics.