Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SA6.5CA

Overview

SA6.5CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, rated for 500W peak pulse power at 10/1000μs, with 6.5V working stand-off voltage, 7.22–8.82V breakdown voltage at 10mA test current, and 42.0V clamping voltage at 400A peak pulse current. It protects automotive and industrial circuits against ESD, EFT, and inductive switching transients.

For engineers reviewing the SA6.5CA datasheet, SA6.5CA pinout, SA6.5CA application, or SA6.5CA equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, bidirectional clamping behavior, DO-15 terminal polarity marking, AEC-Q101 qualification status, and real-world surge immunity design guidance for lighting control, sensor interfaces, and 12V power rail protection.

Technical Context

The SA6.5CA is a silicon avalanche diode engineered for bidirectional transient suppression, with symmetrical V_BR min/max (7.22–8.82V) and identical clamping performance in both directions. Its low dynamic impedance enables rapid response (<5.0ns) to fast-rising transients while maintaining <1μA reverse leakage above 10V.

Designed for operation across –55°C to +175°C junction temperature, it supports high-reliability automotive applications per AEC-Q101. The device uses pure tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and meets UL 94V-0 flammability rating in its DO-204AC molded package.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SA6.5CA is housed in a DO-204AC (DO-15) axial-leaded package with cathode band marking indicating polarity for unidirectional variants; however, SA6.5CA is bidirectional and features no polarity marking-both terminals are functionally identical for transient suppression in either direction.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMAJ6.5A and P6SMB6.8CA, SA6.5CA offers superior 500W surge robustness in an axial DO-15 package with true bidirectional symmetry-critical for protecting floating or AC-coupled nodes without polarity constraints or extra components.

Availability

SA6.5CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting control, industrial sensor interface, and smart building HVAC control requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101-compliant surge protection.

Supply support for SA6.5CA 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

Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, rectifiers, and MOSFETs, with global distribution and AEC-Q101 qualification capabilities.

The SA Series was developed specifically for high-reliability transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments, emphasizing robust 10/1000μs surge handling, wide temperature operation, and halogen-free packaging.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of SA6.5CA at its rated peak pulse current?

The SA6.5CA has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 42.0 V at 400 A peak pulse current (I_PPM) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case surge events and is measured with the device operating within its specified junction temperature range of –55°C to +175°C. The SA6.5CA maintains this clamping performance symmetrically in both directions due to its bidirectional construction.

Is SA6.5CA suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 qualification?

Yes, SA6.5CA is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed in the official Taiwan Semiconductor SA Series datasheet (Version L2105). This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, unbiased highly accelerated stress testing (uHAST), and mechanical shock-ensuring reliability in automotive under-hood and cabin environments. The SA6.5CA's DO-204AC package, tin-plated leads, and –55°C to +175°C operating range further support its use in automotive lighting, body control modules, and sensor systems.

How does the bidirectional nature of SA6.5CA affect PCB layout compared to unidirectional TVS diodes?

The SA6.5CA has no polarity marking and functions identically in both directions, eliminating orientation constraints during placement. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes such as SA6.5A-which require correct anode/cathode alignment relative to DC bias-SA6.5CA can be mounted in either direction across differential signals, AC lines, or floating nodes. This simplifies assembly, reduces misplacement risk, and avoids the need for dual-device solutions when protecting bidirectional interfaces like RS-485 or CAN bus stubs.

What is the maximum peak pulse current rating for SA6.5CA, and how is it defined?

The SA6.5CA is rated for a maximum peak pulse current (I_PPM) of 400 A, derived from its 500 W peak pulse power rating and 42.0 V clamping voltage (P = V × I). This rating applies to the standardized 10/1000 μs double-exponential surge waveform per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, with derating required above 25°C ambient per the published pulse derating curve. The 400 A value reflects single-event, non-repetitive capability; repetitive surges must follow thermal limits defined in the datasheet's Fig.2.

Does SA6.5CA meet RoHS and halogen-free compliance standards?

Yes, SA6.5CA is RoHS compliant and halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21, as explicitly stated in the Taiwan Semiconductor SA Series documentation. Its molding compound contains no brominated or chlorinated flame retardants, and lead content remains below 1000 ppm. The device uses pure tin-plated leads compatible with lead-free soldering processes, and all materials declarations align with EU Directive 2011/65/EU and subsequent amendments.