Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SA85CA-E3/73
- Part No.:
- SA85CA-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
SA85CA-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 85VWM 137VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,243
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SA85CA-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-15 package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features 85 V standoff voltage (VWM), 94.4–104 V breakdown voltage (VBR at 1 mA), 137 V maximum clamping voltage at 3.6 A peak pulse current, 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.
For engineers reviewing the SA85CA-E3/73 datasheet, SA85CA-E3/73 pinout, SA85CA-E3/73 application, or SA85CA-E3/73 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, DO-15 terminal configuration, bidirectional clamping behavior, automotive-grade reliability data, and direct alternatives for circuit protection design in harsh environments.
Technical Context
The SA85CA-E3/73 operates as a symmetrical, bidirectional avalanche diode with no polarity marking - its terminals are interchangeable for AC or dual-rail transient suppression. It responds to voltage spikes within picoseconds and maintains low incremental surge resistance under 10/1000 μs waveform stress.
Designed for unclamped inductive switching events and lightning-induced surges, it delivers stable clamping performance across -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature range and supports repetitive surge duty cycles up to 0.01 %, with 3.0 W steady-state power dissipation on infinite heatsink at 75 °C lead temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 85 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins; defines safe working margin for protected line. |
| VBR (min/max) | 94.4 V / 104 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown threshold range; ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC @ IPPM | 137 V at 3.6 A - Clamped voltage under full 500 W surge; determines maximum stress seen by downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling per 10/1000 μs waveform; validates robustness against common industrial surge profiles. |
| IPPM | 3.6 A - Corresponding peak pulse current at VC; used to size series impedance and verify coordination with upstream fusing. |
| TJ Range | -55 °C to +175 °C - Full automotive-grade junction temperature range; enables deployment in engine bay or under-hood modules. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Meets stress test requirements for automotive electronics; supports PPAP documentation for Tier 1 suppliers. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-15 (DO-204AC), axial-leaded, epoxy-molded case with matte tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Bidirectional construction means no cathode band; both terminals function identically.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Either terminal serves as input/output for bidirectional clamping; no polarity dependency in layout or routing. |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Mounting interface | Leads provide mechanical anchoring and thermal conduction path to PCB copper; 0.375" (9.5 mm) lead length specified for derating curves. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated junction | Enables stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure. |
| 500 W peak pulse rating (10/1000 μs) | Validates immunity to IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV line-to-line, 2 kV line-to-earth) surge testing. |
| Low incremental clamping resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (<1 ns response), critical for protecting high-speed interfaces. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Confirms suitability for automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS modules requiring zero-defect field performance. |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Ensures flame-retardant behavior in enclosed enclosures and meets safety standards for industrial equipment. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Line Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Suppressing load-dump transients (up to 120 V) on 12 V battery-fed ECUs in passenger vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device placed directly at connector entry point before DC/DC converter input. Use Value: Limits voltage seen by downstream regulators to ≤137 V, preventing latch-up or permanent damage during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a events. | Use Scenario: Protecting analog outputs of pressure/temperature sensors connected to PLC I/O modules in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional shunt element on 4–20 mA loop or RS-485 differential pair exposed to ESD and motor-switching noise. Use Value: Clamps ±137 V surges without polarity concern, preserving signal integrity while meeting IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 (15 kV air, 8 kV contact) requirements. |
| Telecom DSL Line Protection | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Protection |
Use Scenario: Guarding ADSL/VDSL line drivers against lightning-induced surges entering via outdoor copper pairs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-stage protector on line-side transformer secondary, coordinated with gas discharge tube (GDT) front-end. Use Value: Responds within <1 ns to clamp induced common-mode transients up to 1 kV, reducing GDT follow-on current stress and extending system lifetime. | Use Scenario: Shielding microcontroller GPIOs and gate drivers from back-EMF spikes generated by brushed DC motors in washing machines or HVAC blowers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Localized TVS across motor coil terminals and across H-bridge supply rails. Use Value: Absorbs 500 W inductive kick energy without degradation, maintaining MCU reset integrity and preventing false triggering of overcurrent protection. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ85CA | DO-214AA package (SMB), 5.0 mm × 4.5 mm footprint; same VWM/VC, but higher IPPM (6.5 A) and PPPM (600 W). | Better suited for space-constrained PCBs needing surface-mount assembly; requires rework of pad layout and thermal relief design. | Select when board real estate is limited and higher surge margin is required without changing clamping voltage. |
| 1.5KE85CA | DO-201AD package; larger body (7.2 mm × 5.4 mm); identical VWM/VBR/VC, but rated for 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs). | Used where legacy through-hole designs demand higher single-pulse energy absorption, e.g., AC mains input stages. | Choose for high-energy surge environments where 500 W is insufficient, accepting larger footprint and higher cost. |
Compared with SMBJ85CA and 1.5KE85CA, the SA85CA-E3/73 offers optimal balance of automotive qualification, axial-leaded manufacturability, and proven 500 W surge capability in compact DO-15 form - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, high-volume automotive and industrial through-hole assemblies.
Availability
SA85CA-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU protection, industrial sensor interface hardening, and telecom line surge suppression requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for SA85CA-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 protection devices with emphasis on reliability, automotive qualification, and high-volume manufacturing.
The SAxxCA series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS platform, engineered specifically for bidirectional transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where AEC-Q101 compliance and repeatable clamping performance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SA85CA-E3/73 under peak surge conditions?
The SA85CA-E3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 137 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 3.6 A (10/1000 μs waveform). This value is measured per JEDEC standards and guarantees that downstream components experience no more than 137 V during transient events - a critical parameter for ensuring compatibility with 100 V-rated capacitors and 120 V-rated IC inputs. The SA85CA-E3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SA85CA-E3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SA85CA-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, meaning it has passed rigorous stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing. Its DO-15 package, glass-passivated junction, and -55 °C to +175 °C operating range make it appropriate for under-hood ECUs, body control modules, and infotainment power supplies. The SA85CA-E3/73 is explicitly listed in Vishay's AEC-Q101 qualified product matrix with full traceability and PPAP support.
How does the bidirectional nature of the SA85CA-E3/73 affect PCB layout?
The SA85CA-E3/73 has no polarity marking and functions identically in either direction, simplifying PCB layout by eliminating orientation constraints during placement and automated assembly. Engineers can route traces symmetrically without regard to anode/cathode assignment, reducing design review time and minimizing risk of misplacement. This symmetry also enables reuse in AC-coupled signal paths or dual-rail power domains where polarity reversal may occur - a key advantage over unidirectional TVS diodes like the SA85A-E3/73.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation for the SA85CA-E3/73?
The SA85CA-E3/73 has a maximum steady-state power dissipation (PD) of 3.0 W when mounted on an infinite heatsink at a lead temperature (TL) of 75 °C, as defined in Figure 5 of the datasheet. In practical PCB layouts, derating applies based on copper area and ambient temperature; for example, at TL = 50 °C, PD rises to ~3.6 W. This rating governs continuous leakage current handling and thermal stability during prolonged overvoltage conditions - not transient suppression, which relies on the 500 W pulse rating.
Does the SA85CA-E3/73 require external series impedance for effective protection?
Yes, the SA85CA-E3/73 must be used with appropriate series impedance - typically a resistor or ferrite bead - to limit peak current during clamping and coordinate with upstream fusing. Without such impedance, the 3.6 A IPPM could exceed trace current capacity or cause excessive VC overshoot due to parasitic inductance. Vishay recommends calculating total loop inductance and selecting impedance to ensure the SA85CA-E3/73 reaches clamping voltage before downstream components experience overstress - a requirement validated in application note AN8002 for TRANSZORB® devices.
SA85CA-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:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 85V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 94.4V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 137V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 3.6A
- 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)
SA85CA-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SA85CA-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SA85CA-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 SA85CA-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of SA85CA-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 SA85CA-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SA85CA-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SA85CA-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SA85CA-E3/73?
SA85CA-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SA85CA-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 SA85CA-E3/73?
For technical support, including SA85CA-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SA85CA-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SA85CA-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SA85CA-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 SA85CA-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SA85CA-E3/73?
All SA85CA-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SA85CA-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 SA85CA-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SA85CA-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SA85CA-E3/73 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
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 …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…

