Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SM6T15CAHE3/5B

Overview

SM6T15CAHE3/5B from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMB (DO-214AA) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal and power lines. It features a 15 V standoff voltage (VWM), 16.7 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 21.2 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 28 A peak pulse current, and 600 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform - used to protect automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O circuits.

For engineers reviewing the SM6T15CAHE3/5B datasheet, SM6T15CAHE3/5B pinout, SM6T15CAHE3/5B application, or SM6T15CAHE3/5B equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.27), SMB package thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), and compliance with J-STD-020 MSL level 1 reflow profile.

Technical Context

The SM6T15CAHE3/5B operates as a symmetrical avalanche diode, conducting equally in both polarities above its breakdown threshold. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low leakage (<1 μA at 12.8 V), while the low-inductance SMB package supports fast transient response (sub-nanosecond turn-on).

It is rated for non-repetitive 10/1000 μs surge events up to 28 A, with derating above 25 °C per Fig. 2 and thermal resistance RθJA = 100 °C/W (on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads). The device meets AEC-Q101 stress test requirements for automotive use and is halogen-free/RoHS-compliant under HE3 suffix.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SMB (DO-214AA), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking. Dimensions: 4.57 mm × 3.94 mm × 2.20 mm (L × W × H), matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 molding compound.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with SMAJ15CA and 1.5KE15CA, SM6T15CAHE3/5B delivers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 qualification, 600 W surge rating, SMB footprint, and MSL Level 1 process compatibility - making it the preferred choice for new automotive and industrial SMT designs requiring validated reliability and compact layout.

Availability

SM6T15CAHE3/5B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC I/O cards, consumer power adapters, and telecom PoE equipment requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for SM6T15CAHE3/5B 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-qualified, and industry-standard solutions.

The SM6T Series is engineered specifically for robust transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive electronics, industrial controls, and communications infrastructure where AEC-Q101 compliance, low clamping voltage, and repeatable surge performance are critical.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of SM6T15CAHE3/5B at its rated peak pulse current?

The SM6T15CAHE3/5B has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 21.2 V when subjected to its peak pulse current (IPPM) of 28 A using the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 1 in the Vishay datasheet 88385 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SM6T15CAHE3/5B maintains this clamping performance across its specified operating temperature range.

Is SM6T15CAHE3/5B suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, SM6T15CAHE3/5B is AEC-Q101 qualified, as indicated by the "HE3" suffix in its part number. It has passed stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing. The SM6T15CAHE3/5B is explicitly intended for automotive sensor protection, body control modules, and infotainment interfaces where reliability under thermal and electrical stress is required.

What does the "CA" suffix signify in SM6T15CAHE3/5B?

The "CA" suffix in SM6T15CAHE3/5B denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression in both polarities, with identical breakdown and clamping characteristics for positive and negative surges. This distinguishes it from unidirectional variants (e.g., SM6T15A), which conduct only in reverse bias and require correct polarity orientation during placement. The SM6T15CAHE3/5B has no polarity marking.

What is the thermal resistance of SM6T15CAHE3/5B from junction to lead?

The SM6T15CAHE3/5B has a typical thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) of 20 °C/W, as specified in the Thermal Characteristics table of Vishay document 88385. This low value reflects efficient heat transfer from the silicon die to the PCB copper via the SMB package leads, supporting sustained power dissipation in compact layouts. The SM6T15CAHE3/5B also specifies RθJA = 100 °C/W on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads.

Does SM6T15CAHE3/5B require special handling during PCB assembly?

No, SM6T15CAHE3/5B is rated MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020, with a maximum peak reflow temperature of 260 °C. It does not require dry packing, baking, or floor life controls prior to soldering. The SM6T15CAHE3/5B is compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles and supports automated placement due to its low-profile SMB package and matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002.