Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J12CAHE3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMA5J12CAHE3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,330
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features a 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 19.9 V maximum clamping voltage at 25.1 A peak pulse current, and 500 W peak pulse power dissipation with 10/1000 μs waveform - used to protect MOSFETs and sensor signal lines in automotive ECUs.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J12CAHE3/5A datasheet, SMA5J12CAHE3/5A pinout, SMA5J12CAHE3/5A application, or SMA5J12CAHE3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, RoHS-compliant HE3 suffix, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates symmetrically in both directions due to its bidirectional construction, enabling protection of AC-coupled or differential signal paths without polarity concerns. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and low leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM), while the low incremental surge resistance supports effective energy diversion during fast transients.
The device is rated for junction temperatures from –55 °C to +150 °C and meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 with 260 °C lead-free reflow peak. Its thermal resistance (RθJA = 80 °C/W) reflects performance under standard PCB mounting conditions using minimum recommended pad layout.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins |
| VBR min/max | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - guaranteed breakdown threshold range for reliable turn-on |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V at 25.1 A - clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge, defining protected circuit stress level |
| PPPM | 500 W - peak pulse power handling capacity under standardized transient waveform |
| ID @ VWM | <1.0 μA - ultra-low leakage ensures minimal standby power loss and signal integrity |
| TJ max | +150 °C - enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - surface-mount outline with 5.28 mm length, 4.50 mm width, and 2.29 mm height |
Pinout & Package
Two-terminal device in SMA (DO-214AC) package; no polarity marking for bidirectional types. Terminals are matte tin-plated leads, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102, with whisker resistance per JESD 201 Class 2.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals function identically - bidirectional clamping allows connection across any two points needing overvoltage protection |
| Case (body) | Thermal and mechanical interface | Plastic molding meets UL 94 V-0; thermal path to PCB via copper pads (0.2" × 0.2") defines RθJA = 80 °C/W |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, differential buses (e.g., CAN, RS-485), and floating power rails without polarity constraints |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control modules, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| Low profile SMA package | Height ≤ 2.29 mm supports compact PCB layouts and compatibility with automated pick-and-place equipment |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance, low leakage drift over temperature, and long-term reliability in harsh environments |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow at 260 °C peak - eliminates bake requirements prior to assembly |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial I/O Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure or temperature sensors in engine bay modules exposed to load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping element placed directly at connector entry point to shunt transients before reaching ADC input or signal conditioner IC. Use Value: Limits induced voltage to ≤19.9 V during 25.1 A surges, preserving sensor accuracy and preventing latch-up in downstream signal chain components. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital input channels on PLC I/O cards subjected to inductive kickback from solenoid switching. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp protector across input terminal and common rail, absorbing repetitive 500 W transients without degradation. Use Value: Maintains <1.0 μA leakage at 12 V nominal line voltage, ensuring clean logic-level detection and eliminating false triggering. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer USB Port ESD |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceiver bus lines in outdoor telecom cabinets against lightning-induced surges up to 1 kV. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Differential-mode TVS pair (one per line) referenced to ground, leveraging symmetrical clamping to suppress common-mode and differential transients. Use Value: Achieves sub-20 V clamping at full rated current, keeping transceiver differential voltage within safe ABSMAX limits per TIA-485-A. | Use Scenario: Adding secondary surge protection on VBUS and D+/D− lines of USB 2.0 ports in smart home hubs exposed to user-handling ESD. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp placed after primary ESD diode to handle higher-energy system-level transients. Use Value: Delivers 500 W surge rating with 80 °C/W thermal resistance - sustains repeated 8 kV contact ESD events without parametric shift. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMA5J12CA-M3/5A | Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant variant; identical electrical specs and AEC-Q101 qualification | No functional difference - selected where halogen-free material compliance is mandated by OEM spec | Choose SMA5J12CA-M3/5A when environmental compliance requires absence of brominated flame retardants |
| SMC5J12CAHE3/5A | Same electrical specs but in larger SMC (DO-214AB) package - 20% higher thermal mass, RθJA = 50 °C/W | Better surge endurance in high-temperature ambient (>105 °C); requires larger PCB footprint | Choose SMC5J12CAHE3/5A when thermal derating margin is critical and board space permits larger package |
Compared with SMA5J12CAHE3/5A, the M3 variant offers identical protection performance with halogen-free materials, while the SMC5J12CAHE3/5A provides superior thermal dissipation at the cost of increased board area - both serve as application-specific alternatives rather than drop-in replacements.
Availability
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial PLC I/O protection, and telecom line interface applications requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 qualification and RoHS compliance.
Supply support for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A 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, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on high-reliability and automotive-grade solutions.
The SMA5J series is engineered for high-power-density transient suppression in space-constrained, thermally demanding environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom systems where robustness and AEC-Q101 validation are mandatory.
FAQ
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in SMA5J12CAHE3/5A?
The "CA" suffix in SMA5J12CAHE3/5A denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device clamps voltage transients equally in both directions, unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMA5J12A). This makes SMA5J12CAHE3/5A suitable for protecting AC-coupled circuits, differential buses, or floating nodes where polarity is undefined. Electrical characteristics such as VBR, VWM, and VC apply identically in either direction.
Is SMA5J12CAHE3/5A qualified for automotive use?
Yes, SMA5J12CAHE3/5A is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by the "HE3" suffix and Vishay documentation. This qualification validates its reliability under automotive temperature cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and lifetime surge stress conditions. It is approved for use in engine control units, body control modules, and ADAS sensor interfaces where sustained operation from –55 °C to +150 °C is required.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SMA5J12CAHE3/5A and at what current is it specified?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of SMA5J12CAHE3/5A is 19.9 V, measured at the peak pulse current (IPPM) of 25.1 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a standardized surge event and is critical for ensuring downstream components remain within their absolute maximum ratings.
How does the HE3 suffix differ from E3 or M3 in SMA5J12CAHE3/5A?
The "HE3" suffix in SMA5J12CAHE3/5A indicates RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification, whereas "E3" denotes RoHS-compliant commercial grade only, and "M3" adds halogen-free compliance. All three share identical electrical parameters and SMA package dimensions, but only HE3-certified units carry the automotive reliability validation required for safety-critical vehicle subsystems.
Can SMA5J12CAHE3/5A be used in place of a unidirectional TVS like SMA5J12A?
No - SMA5J12CAHE3/5A is bidirectional and lacks polarity marking, while SMA5J12A is unidirectional with cathode band identification. Substituting SMA5J12CAHE3/5A for SMA5J12A may cause unintended conduction in DC-biased circuits. Use SMA5J12CAHE3/5A only where symmetrical clamping is required; for DC power rail protection, retain unidirectional variants like SMA5J12A or SMA5J12AHM3/5A.
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- 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:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A 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 SMA5J12CAHE3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J12CAHE3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A?
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J12CAHE3/5A 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 SMA5J12CAHE3/5A?
For technical support, including SMA5J12CAHE3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J12CAHE3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J12CAHE3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J12CAHE3/5A 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 SMA5J12CAHE3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J12CAHE3/5A?
All SMA5J12CAHE3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J12CAHE3/5A, 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 SMA5J12CAHE3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J12CAHE3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMA5J12CAHE3/5A 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 …

