Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SM6T12CA-M3/5B
- Part No.:
- SM6T12CA-M3/5B
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AA, SMB
- Datasheet:
-
SM6T12CA-M3/5B.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC DO214AA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SM6T12CA-M3/5B from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMB (DO-214AA) package, rated for 12 V standoff voltage (VWM = 10.2 V), 16.7 V clamping voltage at 36 A peak pulse current, and 600 W peak pulse power with 10/1000 μs waveform. It protects signal lines and MOSFET gates in automotive sensor units and industrial control interfaces against inductive switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the SM6T12CA-M3/5B datasheet, SM6T12CA-M3/5B pinout, SM6T12CA-M3/5B application, or SM6T12CA-M3/5B equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low clamping ratio (1.64×VWM), halogen-free RoHS compliance (M3 suffix), AEC-Q101 qualification readiness, and SMB footprint compatibility with automated SMT placement.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped surge protector with symmetrical breakdown behavior in both polarities due to its bidirectional CA construction. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<5 μA at VWM) and robust ESD immunity up to ±30 kV (HBM), while low inductance supports fast transient response under 1 ns.
The SM6T12CA-M3/5B is thermally rated for TJ,max = 150 °C and derates linearly above TA = 25 °C per Fig. 2; its RθJA = 100 °C/W enables operation without heatsinking on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, making it suitable for space-constrained PCB layouts in automotive ECUs and IoT edge nodes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 10.2 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins |
| VBR (min/max) | 11.4 V / 12.6 V - Breakdown occurs within this band at 1 mA test current, ensuring predictable turn-on |
| VC @ IPPM | 16.7 V @ 36 A - Clamping voltage during 10/1000 μs surge, limiting downstream IC stress to safe levels |
| PPPM | 600 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity defines maximum transient energy absorption |
| ID @ VWM | ≤5.0 μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage preserves signal integrity in high-impedance sensor interfaces |
| Package | SMB (DO-214AA) - Industry-standard surface-mount outline with 0.220" × 0.130" footprint and J-STD-020 MSL level 1 rating |
| Polarity | Bidirectional - No polarity marking required; symmetric protection for AC-coupled or floating lines |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Enables use in under-hood automotive environments and sealed industrial enclosures |
Pinout & Package
SMB (DO-214AA) package: molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 flammability rating, and no polarity marking for bidirectional operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry (positive half-cycle) | One terminal of symmetrical PN junction; conducts when voltage exceeds +VBR |
| Cathode | Transient current entry (negative half-cycle) | Second terminal of symmetrical PN junction; conducts when voltage exceeds –VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Enables single-device protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV line-earth) in SMB footprint |
| Glass passivated chip junction | Ensures long-term stability of VBR and ID across temperature and humidity stress conditions |
| MSL level 1, LF peak 260 °C | Supports lead-free reflow without popcorn cracking or delamination during standard SMT assembly |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant (M3 suffix) | Fulfills EU Directive 2011/65/EU and IPC-1752A material declaration requirements for green manufacturing |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | Base P/NHM3_X variants are qualified for automotive applications; this M3/5B variant shares identical die and process |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and jump-start transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed directly at connector interface to shunt surge energy before reaching signal conditioning circuitry. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤16.7 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 12 V rail-connected ICs while maintaining signal fidelity below VWM. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback and motor drive noise in factory automation systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across optocoupler inputs or microcontroller GPIO pins to absorb repetitive 600 W pulses without degradation. Use Value: Withstands ≥1000 surges at rated IPPM due to low thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), enabling maintenance-free operation over 10+ year equipment lifetimes. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Interface | Telecom Line Card Surge Suppression |
Use Scenario: Input-stage protection for USB-C PD adapters and wireless charging controllers subjected to ESD and conducted RF interference. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense between AC/DC front-end and isolated DC-DC controller, clamping fast-rising transients before they couple into feedback networks. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response time and <5 μA leakage preserve efficiency and regulation accuracy while meeting IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 (±15 kV air) requirements. | Use Scenario: Secondary-side protection on Ethernet PHY interfaces and DSL line drivers in network access equipment exposed to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (typ. 150 pF at 0 V) bidirectional clamp placed adjacent to RJ-45 magnetics to avoid signal distortion on 10/100/1000BASE-T links. Use Value: Maintains impedance matching and bit-error-rate performance while diverting >30 A surges away from sensitive PHY silicon. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12CA | Same VWM (10.2 V), lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (larger footprint, higher RθJA) | Limited to lower-energy transients; less suitable for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3+ in compact layouts | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs surge margin and board space allows larger SMA pad layout |
| 1.5KE12CA | Higher PPPM (1500 W), axial DO-201 package, higher VBR tolerance (±10%) | Requires through-hole assembly; incompatible with automated SMT lines and dense PCBs | Choose only for legacy through-hole designs needing higher single-pulse energy handling |
Compared with SMAJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, the SM6T12CA-M3/5B delivers optimal balance of 600 W surge capacity, SMB footprint density, and halogen-free manufacturability-making it preferred for new automotive and industrial SMT platforms where reliability, size, and regulatory compliance are co-prioritized.
Availability
SM6T12CA-M3/5B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor units, industrial PLC I/O modules, consumer power adapter interfaces, and telecom line card surge suppression requiring stable component supply across production ramps and multi-year programs.
Supply support for SM6T12CA-M3/5B 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, automotive-grade, and industry-standard packaging.
The SM6T Series is designed specifically for robust transient voltage suppression in harsh environments-targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where consistent clamping performance, AEC-Q101 readiness, and SMT scalability are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SM6T12CA-M3/5B under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SM6T12CA-M3/5B has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 16.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 36 A using the standardized 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 1 in the official Vishay datasheet (Doc. #88385) and reflects worst-case device behavior at TA = 25 °C on recommended copper pads. The SM6T12CA-M3/5B maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SM6T12CA-M3/5B suitable for automotive applications?
Yes-the SM6T12CA-M3/5B uses the same die and process as Vishay's AEC-Q101-qualified HM3 variants (e.g., SM6T12CAHM3_B/I). While the M3/5B suffix itself denotes halogen-free RoHS compliance-not formal AEC-Q101 certification-the device meets all electrical, thermal, and mechanical requirements specified for automotive use, including TJ,max = 150 °C and MSL level 1 reflow compatibility. For certified deployments, specify HM3 suffix variants.
Does the SM6T12CA-M3/5B have polarity markings on the package?
No-the SM6T12CA-M3/5B is a bidirectional TVS diode and carries no cathode band or polarity marking on the SMB (DO-214AA) case. Its symmetrical construction allows installation in either orientation on the PCB, simplifying layout and eliminating risk of reverse placement during automated assembly. This contrasts with unidirectional versions (e.g., SM6T12A), which feature a visible cathode band.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current for the SM6T12CA-M3/5B at its stand-off voltage?
At its rated stand-off voltage (VWM = 10.2 V) and TA = 25 °C, the SM6T12CA-M3/5B exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 5.0 μA. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal power loss and signal distortion in high-impedance circuits such as sensor bias networks or precision analog front-ends. Leakage remains below 50 μA up to TJ = 125 °C per datasheet characterization.
Can the SM6T12CA-M3/5B replace the SMAJ12CA in an existing design?
The SM6T12CA-M3/5B is not a direct drop-in replacement for the SMAJ12CA due to differing package dimensions (SMB vs. SMA) and thermal characteristics (RθJA = 100 °C/W vs. 130 °C/W). While both share identical VWM and VC ratings, the SM6T12CA-M3/5B offers higher PPPM (600 W vs. 400 W) and better SMT process compatibility. Layout revision is required to accommodate the smaller SMB footprint and updated pad geometry.
SM6T12CA-M3/5B Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AA, SMB
- Series:
- SM6T, TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 10.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 11.4V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 16.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 36A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AA (SMBJ)
SM6T12CA-M3/5B FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SM6T12CA-M3/5B through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SM6T12CA-M3/5B 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 SM6T12CA-M3/5B reliable?
The price and inventory of SM6T12CA-M3/5B are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SM6T12CA-M3/5B is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SM6T12CA-M3/5B?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SM6T12CA-M3/5B transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SM6T12CA-M3/5B?
SM6T12CA-M3/5B orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SM6T12CA-M3/5B 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 SM6T12CA-M3/5B?
For technical support, including SM6T12CA-M3/5B datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SM6T12CA-M3/5B requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SM6T12CA-M3/5B is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SM6T12CA-M3/5B 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 SM6T12CA-M3/5B meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SM6T12CA-M3/5B?
All SM6T12CA-M3/5B units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SM6T12CA-M3/5B, 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 SM6T12CA-M3/5B part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SM6T12CA-M3/5B:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SM6T12CA-M3/5B Tags

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