Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SM5S16CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- SM5S16CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-218AB
- Datasheet:
-
SM5S16CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- 3600 W BI-DIRECTIONAL TVS IS DO-
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,000
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Product details
Overview
SM5S16CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount PAR® transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in DO-218AC package, designed for automotive load dump protection with 16.0 V stand-off voltage, 17.8–19.7 V breakdown range at 5 mA, and 138 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs). It delivers 3600 W peak pulse power and operates up to 175 °C junction temperature.
For engineers reviewing the SM5S16CAHM3/I datasheet, SM5S16CAHM3/I pinout, SM5S16CAHM3/I application, or SM5S16CAHM3/I equivalent, this AEC-Q101 qualified TVS diode supports high-reliability automotive electronics requiring ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2 surge compliance, low leakage (<10 µA at VWM), and halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction.
Technical Context
This device functions as a clamping-type overvoltage protector using avalanche breakdown. Its bidirectional structure enables symmetrical suppression of positive and negative transients without polarity marking. The DO-218AC package integrates a metal heatsink terminal for low thermal resistance (RθJM = 0.45 °C/W) and high surge energy handling.
It is rated for 5 W steady-state power dissipation on infinite heatsink and derates linearly above 25 °C ambient. Clamping occurs at ≤26.0 V under 138 A 10/1000 µs pulse, ensuring robust protection for 12 V automotive systems during load dump events.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 16.0 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before clamping begins; defines system operating margin in 12 V automotive circuits. |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 17.8–19.7 V at 5 mA - Confirmed avalanche initiation range; ensures reliable turn-on during transients exceeding VWM. |
| Peak Pulse Current (IPPM) | 138 A (10/1000 µs) - Sustains high-energy surges per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a; critical for alternator load dump survival. |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 26.0 V at IPPM - Maximum voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; keeps downstream ICs within safe operating area. |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 3600 W (10/1000 µs) - Energy-handling capacity enabling single-device protection without external series impedance. |
| Junction Temperature Range | −55 °C to +175 °C - Supports under-hood deployment and long-term reliability in harsh automotive environments. |
| Leakage Current (ID) | <10 µA at VWM, TJ = 175 °C - Minimizes standby power loss and avoids false triggering in battery-sensitive systems. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-218AC - Surface-mount, bidirectional, no cathode band; features metal heatsink terminal (Lead 2) for low thermal resistance and high surge capability. Molding compound meets UL 94 V-0; matte tin-plated leads comply with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Lead 1 | Anode / Cathode (bidirectional) | Electrically symmetric terminal; no polarity marking required; connects to protected line or ground depending on layout. |
| Lead 2 / Metal Heatsink | Common reference / thermal path | Primary thermal interface to PCB copper; must be soldered to large copper pour for RθJM = 0.45 °C/W performance. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock testing. |
| ISO 7637-2 & ISO 16750-2 compliance | Meets standardized automotive surge test requirements for load dump (Pulse 5a), jump start, and supply interruption. |
| DO-218AC metal heatsink | Enables 3600 W peak power handling with RθJM = 0.45 °C/W - superior thermal performance vs. standard SMA/SMB packages. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant (M3) | Meets global environmental regulations and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance for long-term solder joint integrity. |
| Bidirectional symmetry | Eliminates polarity concerns in AC-coupled or dual-rail protection schemes; simplifies layout and BOM management. |
Applications
| Automotive Load Dump Protection | Infotainment Power Rail Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V power inputs of engine control units (ECUs) during alternator load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a). IC Role / Device Role: Primary clamping TVS suppressing transients up to 120 V for <100 ms duration. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤26.0 V at 138 A, preventing damage to downstream DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding USB-C and HDMI power lines in vehicle infotainment head units exposed to conducted ESD and switching noise. IC Role / Device Role: Bidirectional transient suppressor placed between input connector and upstream PMIC. Use Value: Sub-10 µA leakage at 16 V ensures minimal standby current drain while clamping fast ESD pulses to safe levels. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) I/O Protection | ADAS Camera Power Input Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding LIN bus transceivers and sensor interfaces in BCMs from inductive kickback and battery reversal transients. IC Role / Device Role: Standoff-rated TVS absorbing repetitive low-energy spikes without degradation. Use Value: 175 °C max junction temperature allows placement near heat-generating MCU or CAN transceivers without derating. |
Use Scenario: Securing 12 V input of rear-view or surround-view camera modules mounted in hot under-hood or trunk locations. IC Role / Device Role: High-temperature-stable clamping device integrated into front-end power conditioning stage. Use Value: DO-218AC metal heatsink dissipates surge energy directly into PCB, maintaining <26.0 V clamping even after repeated 3600 W pulses. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ16CA | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package, RθJA = 110 °C/W, no metal heatsink terminal. | Suitable for lower-energy transients; not rated for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load dump. | Select SMAJ16CA only for cost-sensitive non-automotive applications where surge energy is <10% of SM5S16CAHM3/I capability. |
| TPSMD16CA | Same DO-218AC package, 3600 W rating, but higher VBR (17.8–20.8 V) and VC (27.5 V); not AEC-Q101 qualified. | Lacks automotive qualification; requires additional reliability validation for ECU use. | Choose TPSMD16CA for industrial power supplies needing identical form factor but without automotive certification requirements. |
Compared with SMAJ16CA and TPSMD16CA, SM5S16CAHM3/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, ISO 7637-2 compliance, and DO-218AC thermal performance-making it the only drop-in solution for production automotive load dump protection without layout or thermal redesign.
Availability
SM5S16CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, body control modules, infotainment systems, and ADAS camera power rails requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and surge stress conditions.
Supply support for SM5S16CAHM3/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 high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, and passive components for automotive, industrial, and computing markets.
The SM5SxxCA family is engineered specifically for automotive-grade transient suppression, emphasizing high-temperature operation (175 °C), AEC-Q101 compliance, and robust surge handling in compact surface-mount packages.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SM5S16CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SM5S16CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 26.0 V when subjected to its rated 138 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured per Figure 4 in the Vishay datasheet and ensures protected circuits remain below critical overvoltage thresholds during automotive load dump events. The SM5S16CAHM3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SM5S16CAHM3/I suitable for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a compliance testing?
Yes, SM5S16CAHM3/I is explicitly rated to meet ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2 surge specifications, including Pulse 5a (load dump), as confirmed in the Vishay datasheet revision 23-Jan-2026. Its 3600 W peak pulse power rating and 138 A IPPM capability align directly with the energy requirements of this test. The SM5S16CAHM3/I is widely deployed in production automotive ECUs for this purpose.
Does SM5S16CAHM3/I require a specific PCB layout for thermal performance?
Yes - the DO-218AC package of SM5S16CAHM3/I relies on its metal heatsink terminal (Lead 2) for effective thermal transfer. Vishay specifies mounting on FR4 with minimum recommended pad layout per IPC 7351, and recommends connecting Lead 2 to a large copper pour to achieve the specified RθJM = 0.45 °C/W. Without adequate copper area, SM5S16CAHM3/I may exceed its 175 °C junction limit under sustained surge conditions.
What does the "HM3/I" suffix indicate in SM5S16CAHM3/I?
The "HM3/I" suffix in SM5S16CAHM3/I denotes three key attributes: H = AEC-Q101 qualified, M3 = halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and Pb-free termination with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and I = 13" plastic tape and reel packaging with anode toward sprocket hole. This full suffix confirms SM5S16CAHM3/I meets automotive environmental and packaging standards required for Tier 1 production.
How does SM5S16CAHM3/I compare to unidirectional TVS diodes in automotive applications?
SM5S16CAHM3/I is bidirectional and polarity-agnostic, making it ideal for protecting AC-coupled signals or dual-polarity power rails without orientation concerns. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes (e.g., SM5S16A), it suppresses both positive and negative transients equally - essential for 12 V automotive systems where reverse battery connection or alternator ripple can induce negative surges. Its DO-218AC package also provides superior thermal performance versus unidirectional counterparts in the same power class.
SM5S16CAHM3/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):
- 16V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.8V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 138A
- 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
SM5S16CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SM5S16CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SM5S16CAHM3/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 SM5S16CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SM5S16CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SM5S16CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SM5S16CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SM5S16CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SM5S16CAHM3/I?
SM5S16CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SM5S16CAHM3/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 SM5S16CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including SM5S16CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SM5S16CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SM5S16CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SM5S16CAHM3/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 SM5S16CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SM5S16CAHM3/I?
All SM5S16CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SM5S16CAHM3/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 SM5S16CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SM5S16CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SM5S16CAHM3/I Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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