Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SM6S12AHM3/I
- Part No.:
- SM6S12AHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-218AC
- Datasheet:
-
SM6S12AHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO218AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,086
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SM6S12AHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount PAR® transient voltage suppressor in DO-218AB package, rated for 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown (VBR), 4600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), and 175 °C junction temperature-designed for automotive load dump protection in engine control units and body electronics.
For engineers reviewing the SM6S12AHM3/I datasheet, SM6S12AHM3/I pinout, SM6S12AHM3/I application, or SM6S12AHM3/I equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional polarity, AEC-Q101 qualification, ISO7637-2 compliance, low leakage (<10 μA at VWM), and thermal resistance RθJM = 0.45 °C/W for high-reliability underhood environments.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses passivated anisotropic rectifier technology to deliver stable clamping performance across -55 °C to +175 °C operating range. Its DO-218AB package integrates a metal heatsink as anode terminal, enabling efficient thermal transfer with RθJM = 0.45 °C/W per JEDEC 51-14 TDIM testing.
The device meets MSL Level 1 (245 °C peak reflow) and supports high-surge conditions: 600 A IFSM (8.3 ms half-sine), 231 A IPPM (10/1000 μs), and clamps to ≤19.9 V at rated surge current-critical for protecting 12 V automotive electronics against load dump transients.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before conduction begins; sets system operating margin for 12 V nominal bus |
| VBR (min/typ/max) | 13.3 / 14.0 / 14.7 V - verified breakdown threshold at 5 mA; ensures predictable turn-on during transients |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V - clamping voltage at 231 A surge; limits downstream IC stress below 20 V |
| PPPM (10/1000 μs) | 4600 W - peak transient energy absorption capability; sustains ISO7637-2 Pulse 5a load dump events |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - extended junction temperature rating enables underhood placement without derating |
| ID @ VWM | <10 μA - ultra-low leakage preserves battery life in always-on automotive modules |
| RθJM | 0.45 °C/W - low junction-to-mount thermal resistance allows direct heatsink coupling for sustained power dissipation |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-218AB - surface-mount molded case with integral metal heatsink acting as anode terminal; meets UL 94 V-0, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified, matte tin-plated leads.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (Heatsink) | Positive terminal / thermal path | Electrically connected to metal heatsink base; must be soldered to copper pour for thermal and electrical integrity |
| Cathode (Lead 1) | Transient current sink | Connected to protected circuit node; carries full surge current during clamping event |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation | Optimized anisotropic rectifier structure ensures stable VBR over lifetime and temperature cycling |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated reliability for automotive applications including HTOL, TC, UHAST, and mechanical shock testing |
| ISO7637-2 compliance | Meets Pulse 5a (load dump) requirements up to 4600 W, enabling single-device protection without external series impedance |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Supports standard SMT reflow profiles up to 245 °C peak without moisture-induced failure |
| Low forward voltage drop | VF ≤ 1.9 V at 100 A (300 μs pulse) minimizes conduction loss during high-current surges |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input | Body Control Module (BCM) CAN Bus Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects ECU 12 V supply rail from alternator load dump transients during battery disconnect events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamps voltage spikes above 19.9 V while diverting up to 231 A surge current to chassis ground. Use Value: Eliminates need for upstream fuses or resistors by absorbing 4600 W pulses-reducing BOM count and PCB space. | Use Scenario: Shields CAN transceiver power pins from coupled transients induced by nearby high-current switching (e.g., window lift motors). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response clamping (tR < 1 ps) limits voltage excursion on VCC line to ≤19.9 V during 10/1000 μs surges. Use Value: Maintains CAN signal integrity by preventing transceiver latch-up or damage during repeated surge exposure. |
| Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Camera Power | Electric Power Steering (EPS) Motor Driver Supply |
Use Scenario: Secures 12 V input to image sensor modules exposed to underhood thermal and electrical stress. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: AEC-Q101-qualified TVS provides fail-safe overvoltage protection with 175 °C operation and <10 μA leakage. Use Value: Enables long-term reliability in sealed camera housings where thermal dissipation is constrained. | Use Scenario: Guards H-bridge gate driver supply against inductive kickback from EPS motor windings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamps transients within 1 ns to protect sensitive logic-level MOSFET drivers from overvoltage stress. Use Value: Prevents false triggering or destruction of gate drivers during rapid motor direction reversal. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12AHE3_A/H | DO-214AC package; lower PPPM (400 W); RθJA = 50 °C/W; same VWM/VBR but smaller thermal mass | Not suitable for sustained load dump; limited to low-energy transients in non-underhood locations | Select only for cost-sensitive, non-automotive applications with ambient <125 °C and surge energy <500 W |
| SMCJ12AHM3 | DO-214AB package; identical VWM/VBR/PPPM specs; RθJM not specified; no AEC-Q101 documentation found | Lacks formal automotive qualification; may require additional validation for OEM production | Acceptable for industrial systems where AEC-Q101 is not mandated, but verify qualification status per lot |
Compared with SMAJ12AHE3_A/H and SMCJ12AHM3, the SM6S12AHM3/I delivers superior thermal management (RθJM = 0.45 °C/W), guaranteed AEC-Q101 qualification, and higher surge robustness-making it the preferred choice for production automotive ECUs requiring zero field failures under load dump stress.
Availability
SM6S12AHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, body electronics modules, and ADAS camera power supplies requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SM6S12AHM3/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, and protection devices with emphasis on automotive, industrial, and computing applications.
The SM6SxxAHM3 series was engineered specifically for high-reliability automotive load dump protection, combining AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-218AB thermal efficiency, and ISO7637-2 compliance in a single surface-mount solution.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SM6S12AHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SM6S12AHM3/I clamps to a maximum of 19.9 V at its rated peak pulse current of 231 A (10/1000 μs waveform). This value is measured per standard test conditions in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number 88384, page 2) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SM6S12AHM3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SM6S12AHM3/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the SM6S12AHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly designed for automotive use. It meets ISO7637-2 load dump requirements, operates up to +175 °C, and is rated for MSL Level 1 reflow. The "H" in the part number denotes AEC-Q101 qualification, and the "E3" suffix confirms RoHS compliance and lead-free termination-both required for modern automotive production. The SM6S12AHM3/I is documented in Vishay's automotive-grade product portfolio.
What does the "HM3" suffix mean in SM6S12AHM3/I?
The "HM3" suffix in SM6S12AHM3/I decodes as follows: "H" indicates AEC-Q101 qualification; "M3" specifies the DO-218AB package variant with matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. The "I" denotes tape-and-reel packaging (750 units per 13-inch reel, anode toward sprocket hole). This full suffix confirms the SM6S12AHM3/I meets automotive reliability, thermal, and assembly standards.
How does the DO-218AB package of the SM6S12AHM3/I improve thermal performance compared to DO-214AB?
The DO-218AB package of the SM6S12AHM3/I integrates a large metal heatsink as the anode terminal, achieving RθJM = 0.45 °C/W-over 10× better than typical DO-214AB RθJM values. This allows direct thermal coupling to PCB copper pours or chassis, enabling sustained power dissipation without junction overheating. Unlike DO-214AB, DO-218AB's design prioritizes thermal management for high-energy automotive transients, making the SM6S12AHM3/I uniquely suited for underhood deployment.
Can the SM6S12AHM3/I replace older SM6S12A parts in existing designs?
Yes, the SM6S12AHM3/I is a direct replacement for SM6S12A with enhanced qualifications: it retains identical electrical specifications (VWM = 12 V, VBR = 13.3–14.7 V, VC = 19.9 V) but adds AEC-Q101 qualification, MSL Level 1 rating, and DO-218AB packaging. No PCB layout changes are needed-the SM6S12AHM3/I shares the same footprint and pinout. Vishay explicitly positions SM6S12AHM3/I as the recommended alternative for new and legacy designs requiring automotive-grade reliability.
SM6S12AHM3/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-218AC
- Series:
- PAR®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 231A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 4600W (4.6kW)
- 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
SM6S12AHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SM6S12AHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SM6S12AHM3/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 SM6S12AHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SM6S12AHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SM6S12AHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SM6S12AHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SM6S12AHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SM6S12AHM3/I?
SM6S12AHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SM6S12AHM3/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 SM6S12AHM3/I?
For technical support, including SM6S12AHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SM6S12AHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SM6S12AHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SM6S12AHM3/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 SM6S12AHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SM6S12AHM3/I?
All SM6S12AHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SM6S12AHM3/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 SM6S12AHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SM6S12AHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SM6S12AHM3/I 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 …

