Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J12CA-E3/61
- Part No.:
- SMA5J12CA-E3/61
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J12CA-E3/61.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,279
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMA5J12CA-E3/61 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for high-energy surge protection on signal and power lines. It features a 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 19.9 V clamping voltage (VC) at 25.1 A peak pulse current, and 500 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - deployed in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O protection, and telecom line conditioning.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J12CA-E3/61 datasheet, SMA5J12CA-E3/61 pinout, SMA5J12CA-E3/61 application, or SMA5J12CA-E3/61 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low incremental surge resistance, AEC-Q101 qualification eligibility (via HE3 suffix), RoHS-compliant matte tin terminations, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with clamping action triggered when reverse or forward transients exceed VWM = 12 V. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response time (<1 ps), while low Rsurge minimizes voltage overshoot during 8/20 µs or 10/1000 µs surges.
Thermal performance is defined by RθJA = 80 °C/W (typ.) and RθJL = 25 °C/W (typ.), enabling reliable operation up to TJ = 150 °C. The device meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 with 260 °C reflow peak, and supports AEC-Q101 qualification when ordered with HE3/HM3 suffixes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe operating margin for 12 V rail protection. |
| VBR (min/max) | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown threshold range; ensures consistent turn-on across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V at 25.1 A - Clamped voltage under 500 W 10/1000 µs surge; limits downstream IC stress to sub-20 V. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity; sustains IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surges with margin. |
| IPPM | 25.1 A - Peak pulse current corresponding to 500 W at VC; used for PCB trace sizing and layout derating. |
| TJ max. | 150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; sets thermal design limit for ambient + power dissipation. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking. Dimensions: 4.93 mm × 3.99 mm × 2.29 mm (L × W × H); terminals are matte tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional surge path | No designated anode/cathode; terminals interchangeable - enables single-component protection on AC or differential lines. |
| Case (body) | Thermal and mechanical interface | Plastic-molded body meets UL 94 V-0; requires 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pad per terminal for rated PPPM. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines without polarity concerns. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures long-term stability of VBR and low leakage (<1 μA at VWM) over temperature and lifetime. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ESD, inductive kickback). |
| MSL Level 1 compliance | Supports standard SMT reflow profiles up to 260 °C peak without preconditioning. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | Available with HE3 suffix (e.g., SMA5J12CAHE3_A) for automotive-grade reliability validation. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN FD and LIN bus transceivers from load-dump and jump-start transients in engine control units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed at connector entry point to clamp ±20 V surges before signal conditioning circuitry. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity under ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (75 V/350 ms) with VC ≤ 19.9 V, preventing transceiver latch-up. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input modules against field-wiring induced surges in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression stage ahead of optocoupler input, rated for repetitive 1 kV/500 A surges. Use Value: Withstands >1000 surges at 50% IPPM due to low thermal resistance (RθJL = 25 °C/W), extending field service life. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer USB Port ESD Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers in base station backhaul links from lightning-induced common-mode transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Common-mode TVS across differential pair (A/B) and shield, referenced to chassis ground. Use Value: Symmetrical VBR ensures balanced clamping; 500 W rating handles IEC 61000-4-5 Combination Wave (10/700 µs) events. |
Use Scenario: Front-end ESD protection for USB 2.0 data lines (D+/D−) in smart home hubs exposed to human-body-model discharges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp (CJ < 100 pF at 0 V) placed directly at connector. Use Value: Clamps ±15 kV HBM ESD pulses within 1 ns while adding <0.5 pF parasitic capacitance - preserves signal rise time. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12CA | Lower PPPM (400 W), higher VC (23.2 V at 17.3 A), same SMA package and VWM. | Not suitable for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4; limited to lower-energy surges (e.g., IEC 61000-4-2 ESD only). | Select SMAJ12CA only when system-level surge testing does not exceed 400 W requirements. |
| SMBJ12CA | Same electrical specs but SMB (DO-214AA) package - 50% larger footprint, lower RθJA (60 °C/W), higher IPPM (32.9 A). | Preferred where board space allows and thermal margin is critical (e.g., high-ambient industrial enclosures). | Choose SMBJ12CA when thermal derating below 85 °C ambient is required or PCB layout permits larger pad area. |
Compared with SMA5J12CA-E3/61, SMAJ12CA offers reduced surge robustness but lower cost, while SMBJ12CA trades compactness for superior thermal performance and higher surge current handling - making SMA5J12CA-E3/61 optimal for space-constrained 500 W-rated designs.
Availability
SMA5J12CA-E3/61 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line conditioning requiring stable component supply, RoHS compliance, and MSL Level 1 reflow readiness.
Supply support for SMA5J12CA-E3/61 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 reliability, power density, and automotive-grade qualification.
The SMA5J series is engineered for high-power-density transient suppression in harsh environments, targeting applications demanding AEC-Q101 readiness, low-profile SMT integration, and repeatable clamping performance under repetitive surge stress.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMA5J12CA-E3/61 under maximum rated surge current?
The SMA5J12CA-E3/61 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at 25.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and verified across production lots. The SMA5J12CA-E3/61 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range (-55 °C to +150 °C), ensuring predictable protection behavior in automotive and industrial deployments.
Is the SMA5J12CA-E3/61 suitable for automotive applications?
The SMA5J12CA-E3/61 itself is commercial-grade (RoHS-compliant, MSL Level 1), but Vishay offers AEC-Q101 qualified versions under the HE3 and HM3 suffixes (e.g., SMA5J12CAHE3_A). For automotive use, specify the HE3 variant - it undergoes stress testing per AEC-Q101 including HTGB, HTRB, and temperature cycling. The SMA5J12CA-E3/61 shares identical electrical specs and package with the qualified version, enabling drop-in qualification upgrades.
How does the bidirectional configuration of SMA5J12CA-E3/61 affect PCB layout?
The SMA5J12CA-E3/61 has no polarity marking and symmetrical terminals, allowing direct placement across AC-coupled or differential signal pairs without orientation constraints. Layout requires two 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads (per Vishay's recommended footprint) to achieve rated 500 W pulse power. No keep-out zones or asymmetric routing are needed - simplifying layout for RS-485, CAN, or audio line protection where SMA5J12CA-E3/61 is commonly deployed.
What is the maximum leakage current of SMA5J12CA-E3/61 at its stand-off voltage?
At VWM = 12 V and TA = 25 °C, the SMA5J12CA-E3/61 exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 μA. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal power loss in always-on circuits such as battery-backed sensors or 24 V industrial controllers. Leakage remains below 5 μA up to 85 °C ambient, preserving efficiency in thermally demanding environments where SMA5J12CA-E3/61 is routinely applied.
Can SMA5J12CA-E3/61 be used in place of unidirectional TVS diodes like SMA5J12A?
No - SMA5J12CA-E3/61 is strictly bidirectional and lacks cathode marking, while SMA5J12A is unidirectional with a band indicating cathode. Substituting them risks incorrect clamping on DC-biased lines: SMA5J12A conducts forward surge current (IFSM = 40 A), whereas SMA5J12CA-E3/61 blocks in both directions until VBR is exceeded. Use SMA5J12CA-E3/61 only where symmetrical transient suppression is required, such as AC signal paths or floating buses.
SMA5J12CA-E3/61 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 25.1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 500W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMA5J12CA-E3/61 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J12CA-E3/61 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J12CA-E3/61 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 SMA5J12CA-E3/61 reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J12CA-E3/61 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMA5J12CA-E3/61 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J12CA-E3/61?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J12CA-E3/61 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J12CA-E3/61?
SMA5J12CA-E3/61 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J12CA-E3/61 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 SMA5J12CA-E3/61?
For technical support, including SMA5J12CA-E3/61 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J12CA-E3/61 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J12CA-E3/61 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J12CA-E3/61 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 SMA5J12CA-E3/61 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J12CA-E3/61?
All SMA5J12CA-E3/61 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J12CA-E3/61, 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 SMA5J12CA-E3/61 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J12CA-E3/61:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMA5J12CA-E3/61 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 …

