Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SM5S26ATHE3/I
- Part No.:
- SM5S26ATHE3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-218AC
- Datasheet:
-
SM5S26ATHE3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 26VWM 42.1VC DO218AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,663
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Product details
Overview
SM5S26ATHE3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount PAR® transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed for automotive load dump protection. It features a 26 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 30.4 V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR), 42.1 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 150 A, 3600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), and operates up to TJ = 175 °C in DO-218AC package.
For engineers reviewing the SM5S26ATHE3/I datasheet, SM5S26ATHE3/I pinout, SM5S26ATHE3/I application, or SM5S26ATHE3/I equivalent, this device is selected for high-reliability 12 V automotive power rail protection where low leakage (<10 μA at VWM), high surge capability, and AEC-Q101 qualification are required.
Technical Context
The SM5S26ATHE3/I uses passivated anisotropic rectifier technology with junction passivation optimized for stable operation under high-temperature stress. Its unidirectional polarity configures the metal heatsink as anode, enabling direct thermal coupling to PCB copper for enhanced power dissipation.
It meets ISO 7637-2 load dump surge requirements and is rated for MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 (245 °C peak reflow). The device delivers 3600 W peak pulse power with 10/1000 μs waveform and maintains <2.0 V forward voltage at 100 A surge current.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 26 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins |
| VBR (nom) | 30.4 V - Breakdown voltage at 5 mA test current; defines precise turn-on threshold |
| VC (max) | 42.1 V - Clamped voltage at 150 A IPPM; determines protected circuit's worst-case overvoltage |
| PPPM (10/1000 μs) | 3600 W - Peak surge power handling capacity for standard automotive transients |
| TJ max | 175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables under-hood deployment without derating |
| ID (max @ VWM) | 10 μA - Reverse leakage at 26 V; ensures minimal standby power loss in battery-sensitive systems |
| RθJC | 1.0 °C/W - Junction-to-case thermal resistance; supports direct heatsinking to PCB ground plane |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-218AC - Surface-mount, single-ended, metal heatsink cathode configuration; anode terminal is the metal heatsink base, cathode is lead 1; RoHS-compliant matte tin plating; JESD 201 Class 2 whisker tested.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Metal Heatsink) | Positive connection point and primary thermal path | Must be soldered to large copper area for thermal management; electrically connects to system ground or battery negative in unidirectional clamp configuration |
| Cathode (Lead 1) | Transient voltage sensing and clamping node | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); conducts surge current to anode during overvoltage events |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation optimized design | Enables stable VBR drift <±5% over 1000 hrs at TJ = 175 °C, critical for long-life automotive modules |
| TJ = 175 °C rating | Eliminates derating in engine compartment applications; supports full 3600 W surge capability up to case temperature of 150 °C |
| Meets ISO 7637-2 | Validated for 12 V vehicle load dump pulses (including slow-decay exponential waveforms), not just generic surge tests |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix) | Qualified per stress test conditions including HTGB, HTRB, and temperature cycling; base P/NHE3 denotes automotive-grade build |
| Low VF at high IFSM | ≤2.0 V forward voltage at 100 A surge ensures minimal voltage drop during high-current clamping, preserving downstream regulator input headroom |
Applications
| Automotive Load Dump Protection | 12 V Power Rail Surge Suppression |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting infotainment ECUs and ADAS domain controllers from alternator-induced load dump transients during battery disconnect. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS diode placed between 12 V supply and ground, clamping transients above ~30 V within nanoseconds. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤42.1 V during 3600 W surges, preventing damage to 36 V-rated DC-DC converters and microcontrollers. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding body control modules (BCM) against switching spikes from solenoids, fuel pumps, and HVAC actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on main 12 V distribution node, absorbing repetitive inductive kickback energy. Use Value: Sustains 10 μA leakage at 26 V, minimizing quiescent current draw in always-on vehicle networks. |
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Input Protection | Telematics Module Power Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding sensor signal conditioning circuits and CAN transceivers powered from switched 12 V in engine bay environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection stage after upstream fuse, providing fast-response clamping adjacent to sensitive ICs. Use Value: 1.0 °C/W RθJC allows direct mounting to ECU aluminum housing, maintaining TJ <175 °C during repeated 10/1000 μs surges. | Use Scenario: Securing LTE/V2X communication modules connected to vehicle battery via low-EMI power filters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage TVS on filtered 12 V input, ensuring compliance with OEM EMC immunity requirements. Use Value: AEC-Q101 qualification guarantees reliability across -40 °C to +125 °C ambient, matching telematics module thermal envelope. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SM5S26AHM3 | Same electrical specs; HM3 suffix indicates halogen-free, lead-free, and AEC-Q101 qualified with enhanced moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1) and higher reflow tolerance | Preferred for new designs requiring RoHS+ and halogen-free compliance; identical footprint and thermal performance | Select SM5S26AHM3 for new automotive programs; SM5S26ATHE3/I remains valid for legacy production and repair |
| SMAJ26A | Lower PPPM (400 W vs. 3600 W); SMA package (DO-214AC) with higher RθJA; no AEC-Q101 qualification | Suitable only for non-automotive, low-energy industrial or consumer applications with modest surge exposure | Not recommended for load dump; use only where peak surge energy is <10% of SM5S26ATHE3/I capability |
Compared with SM5S26AHM3, the SM5S26ATHE3/I offers identical protection performance but lacks halogen-free certification and updated MSL compliance; compared with SMAJ26A, it delivers 9× higher surge power and automotive-grade reliability-making it essential for under-hood 12 V rail protection.
Availability
SM5S26ATHE3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, engine control units, and telematics modules requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SM5S26ATHE3/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, rectifiers, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on high-reliability, high-power, and automotive-grade solutions.
The SM5SxxAT family was engineered specifically for demanding automotive load dump and inductive switching protection, combining high-temperature stability, robust surge handling, and AEC-Q101 validation in the DO-218AC package.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SM5S26ATHE3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SM5S26ATHE3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 42.1 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 150 A using a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per the conditions specified in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 87609) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on the protected circuit during a surge event. Maintaining VC below 43 V ensures compatibility with 36 V-rated downstream DC-DC regulators and microcontrollers commonly used in automotive applications. The SM5S26ATHE3/I achieves this while delivering 3600 W of surge power handling capability.
Is the SM5S26ATHE3/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the SM5S26ATHE3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by the HE3 suffix in its ordering code and explicitly stated in the Vishay datasheet. This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), high-temperature gate bias (HTGB), and temperature cycling, validating its suitability for under-hood automotive environments. The device operates reliably from -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature and meets ISO 7637-2 load dump requirements. SM5S26ATHE3/I is intended for production use in automotive ECUs, body control modules, and telematics systems where AEC-Q101 compliance is mandatory.
What does the HE3 suffix indicate for the SM5S26ATHE3/I?
The HE3 suffix in SM5S26ATHE3/I denotes three key manufacturing and compliance attributes: RoHS-compliant materials, AEC-Q101 qualification, and compliance with JESD 201 Class 2 whisker testing. It also confirms matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. The "HE3" is not a revision code but a standardized Vishay ordering identifier that distinguishes automotive-grade builds from commercial variants. SM5S26ATHE3/I is therefore fully traceable, automotive-qualified, and suitable for high-reliability production programs requiring documented process control and material compliance.
How is thermal management implemented for the SM5S26ATHE3/I in high-power surge conditions?
The SM5S26ATHE3/I relies on its metal heatsink (anode) for primary thermal conduction, with a typical junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) of 1.0 °C/W. Effective thermal management requires soldering the metal heatsink directly to a large, low-thermal-resistance PCB copper area-ideally ≥250 mm² of 2 oz copper-to dissipate heat generated during 3600 W surge events. The device's DO-218AC package is designed for this purpose, and its 175 °C maximum junction temperature allows sustained operation even when case temperatures reach 150 °C. Proper heatsinking prevents thermal runaway and ensures repeatable clamping performance across multiple surge events.
Why is the SM5S26ATHE3/I marked as 'Not For New Designs'?
The SM5S26ATHE3/I is designated 'Not For New Designs' because Vishay recommends the newer SM5S26AHM3 as its replacement-offering identical electrical performance with enhanced environmental compliance (halogen-free, improved MSL 1 rating, and updated lead-free finish). This designation applies only to new product introductions; SM5S26ATHE3/I remains fully supported for existing designs, repairs, and legacy production. Vishay continues to manufacture and distribute SM5S26ATHE3/I with full datasheet specifications and AEC-Q101 qualification. Customers may continue using SM5S26ATHE3/I where program requirements mandate its specific qualification history or sourcing chain.
SM5S26ATHE3/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-218AC
- Series:
- PAR®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 26V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 28.9V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 42.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 86A
- 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-218AC
SM5S26ATHE3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SM5S26ATHE3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SM5S26ATHE3/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 SM5S26ATHE3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SM5S26ATHE3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SM5S26ATHE3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SM5S26ATHE3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SM5S26ATHE3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SM5S26ATHE3/I?
SM5S26ATHE3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SM5S26ATHE3/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 SM5S26ATHE3/I?
For technical support, including SM5S26ATHE3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SM5S26ATHE3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SM5S26ATHE3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SM5S26ATHE3/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 SM5S26ATHE3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SM5S26ATHE3/I?
All SM5S26ATHE3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SM5S26ATHE3/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 SM5S26ATHE3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SM5S26ATHE3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SM5S26ATHE3/I Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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