Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA78HE3/73
- Part No.:
- SA78HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA78HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 78VWM 139VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,023
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA78HE3/73 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 78 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 86.7–95.8 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 126 V maximum clamping voltage at 4 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.
For engineers reviewing the SA78HE3/73 datasheet, SA78HE3/73 pinout, SA78HE3/73 application, or SA78HE3/73 equivalent, this device is selected for robust overvoltage protection in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O lines, and telecom line-card surge immunity where bi-directional clamping, low leakage (<1 µA at 78 V), and high surge current tolerance are required.
Technical Context
The SA78HE3/73 operates as a bi-directional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping transient voltages above ±86.7 V in either polarity while maintaining <1 µA reverse leakage at its 78 V stand-off rating. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and long-term reliability under repetitive surge stress.
Designed for 10/1000 µs waveform compliance, it delivers 4 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with 126 V clamping, exhibits a +0.095 %/°C temperature coefficient of VBR, and supports operating junction temperatures from –55 °C to +175 °C - enabling deployment in under-hood automotive and industrial environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 78 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe operating margin for 72 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 86.7 V / 95.8 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche threshold range; ensures predictable turn-on across production lot and temperature. |
| VC @ IPPM | 126 V at 4 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000 µs surge; limits downstream IC stress to safe levels in 12 V/24 V automotive buses. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling per single transient; meets ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2/5a/b requirements for automotive electronics. |
| ID @ VWM | <1 µA - Ultra-low reverse leakage at rated stand-off; preserves signal integrity in high-impedance sensor or communication lines. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; supports placement near heat sources in engine control units and power modules. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including HTOL, TC, UHAST, and ESD testing per JESD47. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0; matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002; no polarity marking (bi-directional).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bi-directional avalanche junction | No functional distinction between leads; interchangeable in PCB layout; enables simplified routing on differential or AC-coupled lines. |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Current path terminals | Both leads conduct identically in forward or reverse bias beyond VBR; supports mounting without orientation check during automated assembly. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bi-directional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, RS-485 buses, and ungrounded sensor outputs without polarity concerns. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR and low leakage over 15+ years in humid or thermally cycled environments (e.g., automotive cabin modules). |
| 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands multiple ISO 16750-2 load-dump surges up to 35 V × 100 ms without degradation when properly heatsinked. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive under-hood applications including engine control, transmission control, and ADAS sensor interfaces. |
| DO-204AC (DO-15) package | Industry-standard footprint compatible with legacy designs; supports wave and reflow soldering per JESD 22-B106 (275 °C, 10 s max). |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial I/O Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure, temperature, or position sensors in engine control units exposed to load dump and inductive switching noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed between sensor output and microcontroller ADC input to limit transients to ≤126 V. Use Value: Prevents ADC saturation and latch-up in 3.3 V/5 V MCUs while maintaining sub-1 µA leakage for accurate low-current sensing. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital input channels on PLC modules against field-wiring induced surges and ground bounce. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff protector mounted at connector entry point to shunt >1 kV transients before reaching optocoupler or Schmitt trigger input stage. Use Value: Eliminates need for external series impedance or RC filtering; maintains fast edge response (<1 ns turn-on) for 10 kHz digital signal integrity. |
| Telecom Line Card Surge Immunity | Consumer Power Adapter Input Protection |
Use Scenario: Front-end protection of POTS or xDSL line interface circuits subjected to lightning-induced surges per ITU-T K.20/K.44. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device across tip/ring pair, coordinated with gas discharge tube (GDT) for staged protection. Use Value: Limits let-through voltage to <150 V during 10/700 µs surges, preserving SLIC and codec ICs rated for 160 V absolute maximum. | Use Scenario: Secondary-side transient suppression on 12 V DC output rails of wall adapters used in smart home hubs and set-top boxes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response clamp parallel to bulk capacitor to suppress ringing and ESD events from connected peripherals. Use Value: Reduces output voltage overshoot to <15 V during 8 kV contact ESD, preventing brownout resets in downstream SoCs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ78CA | Same VWM (78 V), higher PPPM (600 W), SMC (DO-214AB) package - 20 % larger footprint, lower thermal resistance. | Better suited for high-repetition surge environments (e.g., motor drive feedback lines) due to superior power dissipation. | Select SMBJ78CA when board space allows and thermal management requires >500 W pulse handling. |
| 1.5KE78CA | Same VWM (78 V), identical DO-204AC package, but 1.5 kW PPPM and higher IPPM (21.5 A); higher VC (129 V). | Targeted at high-energy lightning strike protection (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4), not optimized for fast-edge ESD. | Choose 1.5KE78CA only when system-level testing confirms need for >1 kW surge capability and 129 V clamping is acceptable. |
Compared with SMBJ78CA and 1.5KE78CA, the SA78HE3/73 offers AEC-Q101 qualification and tighter VBR tolerance (±5 %) in the compact DO-15 form factor - making it optimal for space-constrained, automotive-grade designs where consistent clamping and qualification evidence are mandatory.
Availability
SA78HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line-card surge protection requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant sourcing, and AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for SA78HE3/73 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 handling, and automotive qualification.
The SAxxHE3 series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® family, engineered specifically for AEC-Q101-compliant transient suppression in harsh automotive and industrial environments where bi-directional clamping, low leakage, and long-term stability are critical.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of the SA78HE3/73?
The SA78HE3/73 is a bi-directional TVS diode with symmetrical avalanche characteristics; neither lead is marked as anode or cathode, and both terminals function identically in either polarity. This eliminates orientation sensitivity during PCB assembly and supports AC-coupled or floating signal line protection without design constraints.
Does the SA78HE3/73 meet automotive reliability standards?
Yes, the SA78HE3/73 carries full AEC-Q101 qualification per the Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 88378, Revision: 18-Sep-12). It has passed stress tests including high-temperature operating life (HTOL), temperature cycling (TC), unbiased highly accelerated stress test (UHAST), and human-body-model ESD - confirming suitability for under-hood and chassis-mounted automotive ECUs.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SA78HE3/73 under standard surge conditions?
The SA78HE3/73 clamps to a maximum of 126 V when subjected to its rated 4 A peak pulse current (IPPM) using the industry-standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed across temperature and production lot, ensuring predictable protection margins for 72 V nominal systems such as 24 V commercial vehicle electronics.
How does the SA78HE3/73 differ from the SA78A variant?
The SA78HE3/73 is the AEC-Q101-qualified, RoHS-compliant version with HE3 suffix (JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance), whereas SA78A is the commercial-grade, non-automotive variant. Both share identical electrical specs (VWM = 78 V, VBR = 86.7–95.8 V), but only SA78HE3/73 provides certified automotive reliability data and extended temperature validation.
Can the SA78HE3/73 be used in place of a unidirectional TVS like SA78A?
No - the SA78HE3/73 is strictly bi-directional and lacks polarity marking; substituting it for a unidirectional SA78A would compromise protection on DC-biased lines (e.g., 12 V power rails), where reverse conduction could cause short-circuit failure. Use only in AC, differential, or floating applications confirmed in the SA78HE3/73 datasheet.
SA78HE3/73 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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 78V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 86.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 139V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 3.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 500W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
SA78HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA78HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA78HE3/73 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 SA78HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA78HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SA78HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA78HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA78HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA78HE3/73?
SA78HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA78HE3/73 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 SA78HE3/73?
For technical support, including SA78HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA78HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA78HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA78HE3/73 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 SA78HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA78HE3/73?
All SA78HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA78HE3/73, 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 SA78HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA78HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA78HE3/73 Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

