Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SM5S15CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- SM5S15CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-218AB
- Datasheet:
-
SM5S15CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- 3600 W BI-DIRECTIONAL TVS IS DO-
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,000
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Product details
Overview
SM5S15CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount PAR® transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-218AC package, with 15.0 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR), and 24.4 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 148 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under 10/1000 μs waveform. It delivers 3600 W peak pulse power (PPPM), operates from –55 °C to +175 °C, and is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive load dump protection.
For engineers reviewing the SM5S15CAHM3/I datasheet, SM5S15CAHM3/I pinout, SM5S15CAHM3/I application, or SM5S15CAHM3/I equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability 12 V automotive power rail surge suppression where low leakage (<10 μA at VWM), high junction temperature capability (TJ = 175 °C), and ISO 7637-2 compliance are mandatory design requirements.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses silicon avalanche technology to clamp transient overvoltages via controlled reverse breakdown. Its bidirectional structure enables symmetrical clamping without polarity sensitivity, and its DO-218AC package integrates a metal heatsink terminal for low thermal resistance (RθJM = 0.45 °C/W) and high surge energy handling.
Designed for automotive-grade reliability, it meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 (245 °C peak reflow), passes JESD 201 Class 2 whisker testing, and maintains stable leakage (<10 μA at VWM) even at TJ = 175 °C - critical for under-hood electronics exposed to sustained high ambient temperatures.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15.0 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; sets safe margin above 12 V nominal automotive system. |
| VBR (min–max) | 16.7–18.5 V - Breakdown initiates within this range at 5 mA test current; ensures predictable turn-on during transients. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V - Clamped voltage at 148 A (10/1000 μs); limits downstream IC stress during load dump events. |
| PPPM (10/1000 μs) | 3600 W - Peak surge power handling; supports ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) up to 300 ms duration with derating. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - Enables placement near hot engine compartments without thermal shutdown or parameter drift. |
| ID @ VWM | ≤10 μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage preserves battery life in always-on vehicle modules (e.g., CAN gateways, body controllers). |
| Package | DO-218AC - Surface-mount package with integrated metal heatsink terminal; optimized for high-current thermal dissipation on PCB. |
Pinout & Package
DO-218AC package features two terminals: Terminal 1 (anode-side lead) and Terminal 2 (metal heatsink/cathode-side thermal pad). The device is bidirectional with no cathode band marking; polarity is irrelevant for transient suppression function. Thermal performance relies on soldering Terminal 2 to a large copper pour for effective heat spreading.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Anode connection (lead) | Primary signal path for transient current entry; requires standard SMT pad per IPC-7351. |
| Terminal 2 | Integrated metal heatsink / cathode thermal pad | Primary thermal path to PCB; must be connected to ≥250 mm² copper area for RθJA ≤65 °C/W. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive use across temperature, humidity, vibration, and lifetime stress tests - required for ECU, ADAS, and infotainment modules. |
| ISO 7637-2 & ISO 16750-2 compliance | Guarantees robustness against standardized automotive electrical transients including load dump (Pulse 5a), jump start, and alternator ripple. |
| 175 °C junction rating | Enables operation in under-hood environments (e.g., engine control units) without derating or thermal shutdown. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant M3 termination | Meets global environmental regulations and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance - essential for long-life automotive deployments. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Allows unlimited floor life and standard 245 °C reflow profile without baking - simplifies manufacturing and reduces cost. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Protection | Automotive Infotainment System Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 12 V supply input of engine control units from load dump surges (up to 40 V, 300 ms) generated during alternator disconnection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device on main power rail; responds within nanoseconds to limit voltage seen by MCU, CAN transceivers, and analog sensors. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic rails downstream by clamping to ≤24.4 V while absorbing 3600 W peak energy. | Use Scenario: Shields USB, HDMI, and LVDS interfaces in head units from ESD and coupled transients induced by nearby motor actuation (e.g., HVAC blower). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS placed after common-mode chokes; suppresses fast-rising transients (<1 ns rise time) before they reach interface ICs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by limiting clamping voltage to 24.4 V while exhibiting <10 μA leakage - avoids DC bias shift in high-impedance analog video paths. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) LIN Bus Protection | ADAS Camera Power Rail Protection |
Use Scenario: Secures LIN bus transceiver power pins against battery reversal spikes and inductive switching noise from door lock actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element on 12 V VCC line feeding LIN transceiver; handles repetitive low-energy transients without degradation. Use Value: Ensures uninterrupted LIN communication by maintaining ≤10 μA leakage at 15 V - prevents false wake-up or bus timeout due to leakage-induced voltage drop. | Use Scenario: Safeguards 12 V input to image sensor modules mounted near headlights or fog lamps, exposed to repeated load dump and ignition pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-line transient suppressor on camera module power entry; thermally anchored to heatsink pad for sustained 175 °C operation. Use Value: Guarantees zero pixel corruption or reset events during hot-cranking by sustaining clamping performance at full TJ = 175 °C with no parameter drift. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15CA | DO-214AC package; lower PPPM (400 W); higher RθJA (100 °C/W); same VWM/VBR range. | Not AEC-Q101 qualified; limited to industrial/commercial use; unsuitable for under-hood automotive deployment. | Select SMAJ15CA only for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where 3600 W surge capacity and 175 °C operation are unnecessary. |
| TPSMD15CA | DO-218AC package; identical VWM/VBR/VC specs; AEC-Q101 qualified; same 3600 W PPPM but rated for 10/10000 μs (2400 W). | Same automotive qualification and thermal performance; differs only in JEDEC test condition labeling - functionally interchangeable in load dump circuits. | TPSMD15CA is a direct functional alternative with identical mechanical and electrical behavior; verify reel packaging compatibility (HM3 vs. TPSMD suffix) for production line integration. |
Compared with SMAJ15CA, SM5S15CAHM3/I provides 9× higher surge power and automotive qualification; versus TPSMD15CA, it shares identical clamping performance and thermal design but originates from a different Vishay product family with distinct traceability and qualification documentation.
Availability
SM5S15CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU protection, infotainment power conditioning, and ADAS camera module surge suppression requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for SM5S15CAHM3/I 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and automotive-grade qualification.
The SM5SxxCA series is part of Vishay's PAR® (Protection Against Transients) TVS platform, engineered specifically for high-energy automotive load dump and ISO 16750-2 compliance in harsh-temperature environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SM5S15CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SM5S15CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 148 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 4 in the Vishay datasheet (Doc. #98458) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transients such as automotive load dump. The SM5S15CAHM3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SM5S15CAHM3/I suitable for under-hood automotive applications?
Yes, SM5S15CAHM3/I is explicitly designed for under-hood use: it is AEC-Q101 qualified, rated for junction temperatures up to +175 °C, and tested per ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2. Its DO-218AC package with metal heatsink terminal enables efficient thermal transfer to the PCB, and its leakage remains ≤10 μA at VWM even at maximum TJ - critical for battery-sensitive modules like engine control units and transmission controllers where SM5S15CAHM3/I is routinely deployed.
Does SM5S15CAHM3/I have polarity markings, and how is it installed on the PCB?
No, SM5S15CAHM3/I is a bidirectional TVS diode with no cathode band or polarity marking - installation orientation does not affect clamping performance. It uses the DO-218AC package with Terminal 1 (lead) and Terminal 2 (metal heatsink pad). For optimal thermal and electrical performance, Terminal 2 must be soldered to a large copper pour (≥250 mm²) acting as both thermal sink and current return path, per Vishay's recommended mounting pad layout.
What is the surge rating of SM5S15CAHM3/I for the 10/10000 μs waveform?
For the 10/10000 μs waveform, SM5S15CAHM3/I is rated at 2400 W peak pulse power (PPPM), consistent with the "22CA to 85CA" group specified in the Vishay datasheet (Doc. #98458, page 1). This rating applies to longer-duration transients such as certain ISO 16750-2 tests and validates the device's suitability for sustained surge events beyond the more common 10/1000 μs load dump profile. The SM5S15CAHM3/I maintains full AEC-Q101 qualification at this rating.
How does the HM3 suffix in SM5S15CAHM3/I impact manufacturing and reliability?
The HM3 suffix in SM5S15CAHM3/I indicates halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with matte tin-plated leads that meet J-STD-002 solderability and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance requirements. It also confirms AEC-Q101 qualification. These attributes ensure long-term reliability in automotive reflow processes (MSL Level 1, 245 °C peak), prevent tin whisker growth in high-vibration environments, and support environmentally compliant production - all verified and documented for SM5S15CAHM3/I in Vishay's qualification reports.
SM5S15CAHM3/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-218AB
- Series:
- PAR®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 148A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 3600W (3.6kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-218AB
SM5S15CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SM5S15CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SM5S15CAHM3/I 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 SM5S15CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SM5S15CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SM5S15CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SM5S15CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SM5S15CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SM5S15CAHM3/I?
SM5S15CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SM5S15CAHM3/I 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 SM5S15CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including SM5S15CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SM5S15CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SM5S15CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SM5S15CAHM3/I 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 SM5S15CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SM5S15CAHM3/I?
All SM5S15CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SM5S15CAHM3/I, 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 SM5S15CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SM5S15CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SM5S15CAHM3/I Tags

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