Microchip Technology SM8LC15E3/TR7

Overview

SM8LC15E3/TR7 from Semtech is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) array in SO-8 package, rated for 500 W peak pulse power (8/20 µs), 15 V standoff voltage (V_WM), 16.7 V minimum breakdown voltage (V_BR), and 24 V clamping voltage at 1 A. It provides board-level ESD/EFT protection for dual I/O lines in microprocessor-based interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the SM8LC15E3/TR7 datasheet, SM8LC15E3/TR7 pinout, SM8LC15E3/TR7 application, or SM8LC15E3/TR7 equivalent, key selection criteria include standoff voltage matching system operating voltage, low 25 pF line capacitance for high-speed data integrity, and IEC 61000-4-2/4-4 compliance for industrial-grade surge immunity.

Technical Context

This TVS array employs silicon avalanche diode technology to clamp transients above V_WM while maintaining low leakage (<1 µA at 15 V) and stable temperature coefficient (+11 mV/°C for V_BR). Its dual-channel architecture isolates two bidirectional signal paths without shared ground coupling.

The SO-8 package enables surface-mount integration with defined Pin #1 dot marking and supports automated assembly per EIA-481-1-A tape-and-reel (2,500 pcs/reel). Mounting pad dimensions comply with standard SO-8 footprint requirements for thermal and mechanical reliability.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SO-8 surface-mount package with molded plastic body, 0.150-inch width, and Pin #1 identified by dot marking on top surface. Weight: 0.066 g.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMAJ15A and SP1003-01UTG, the SM8LC15E3/TR7 delivers integrated dual-line protection with optimized 25 pF capacitance and SO-8 thermal performance-reducing component count, PCB real estate, and assembly steps while maintaining robust IEC-compliant surge immunity.

Availability

SM8LC15E3/TR7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMI panels, automotive body control modules, and medical patient monitor ports requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for SM8LC15E3/TR7 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

Semtech Corporation is a U.S.-based fabless semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for power management, protection, and signal integrity.

The SM8LCXX series was designed specifically for board-level transient suppression in high-density digital interfaces, balancing low capacitance, precise voltage thresholds, and standardized SO-8 manufacturability.

FAQ

What is the standoff voltage rating of the SM8LC15E3/TR7?

The SM8LC15E3/TR7 has a standoff voltage (V_WM) of 15.0 V, meaning it remains non-conductive below this DC or continuous peak voltage. This value is selected to match or slightly exceed the maximum operating voltage of protected lines-such as 12 V automotive buses or 3.3 V/5 V logic interfaces-ensuring no leakage or false triggering during normal operation. The SM8LC15E3/TR7 maintains <1 µA leakage at 15 V.

Does the SM8LC15E3/TR7 support IEC 61000-4-2 ESD testing?

Yes, the SM8LC15E3/TR7 is explicitly rated for ±15 kV contact discharge and ±20 kV air discharge per IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4. Its 500 W peak pulse power rating and sub-24 V clamping voltage at 1 A ensure protected circuits experience minimal overvoltage during ESD events. Test validation is documented in the MSC0333A.PDF datasheet for the SM8LCXX family, including the SM8LC15E3/TR7.

How many signal lines does the SM8LC15E3/TR7 protect?

The SM8LC15E3/TR7 protects exactly two bidirectional signal lines using its dual-channel architecture. Pins 1–2 form one TVS path, and Pins 3–4 form the second, with electrically isolated cathodes. This eliminates the need for two separate single-line TVS devices and reduces PCB footprint versus discrete solutions. Each channel operates independently, making the SM8LC15E3/TR7 ideal for differential interfaces like RS-485 or LIN bus.

What is the typical capacitance of the SM8LC15E3/TR7 per line?

The SM8LC15E3/TR7 exhibits a typical capacitance of 25 pF per line pair at 1 MHz and 0 V bias. This low value is critical for preserving signal integrity on high-speed digital interfaces such as USB 2.0, CAN FD, or LVDS. Measured across each anode-cathode path (Pins 1–2 and Pins 3–4), the 25 pF rating ensures minimal rise-time degradation and reflection-verified in the manufacturer's electrical characteristics table for the SM8LC15E3/TR7.

Is the SM8LC15E3/TR7 compatible with automated SMT assembly processes?

Yes, the SM8LC15E3/TR7 uses a standard SO-8 surface-mount package compliant with JEDEC MS-012 and EIA-481-1-A tape-and-reel packaging (2,500 pieces per 13-inch reel). Its Pin #1 dot marking, defined pad layout, and 0.150-inch body width support precision pick-and-place and reflow soldering. Thermal pad (Pins 5–8) requires proper stencil design and solder paste volume to ensure mechanical stability and thermal performance in production.