Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J15A-E3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMA5J15A-E3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J15A-E3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMA5J15A-E3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for high-energy surge protection on power and signal lines. It features a 15 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 24.4 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 20.5 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs waveform), commonly deployed to safeguard MOSFETs and ICs against inductive switching transients in automotive and industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J15A-E3/5A datasheet, SMA5J15A-E3/5A pinout, SMA5J15A-E3/5A application, or SMA5J15A-E3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include verified clamping performance at rated IPPM, unidirectional polarity with cathode band marking, RoHS-compliant matte tin-plated leads, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamping protection device triggered by reverse-biased avalanche breakdown above its 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR at 1 mA). Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time ensure effective suppression of transient energy without latch-up or thermal runaway under single-pulse conditions.
Rated for -55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, it uses a glass-passivated silicon junction and meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 (260 °C peak reflow). The SMA (DO-214AC) package provides 80 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance when mounted on minimum recommended pad layout.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe DC/AC working range. |
| VBR (min/max) | 16.7 V / 18.5 V - Breakdown voltage range at 1 mA test current; ensures reliable turn-on margin above VWM. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V - Clamped voltage at 20.5 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs); determines protected circuit's maximum transient exposure. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling capability; defines survivability against standardized lightning/surge waveforms. |
| IPPM | 20.5 A - Peak pulse current supported at VC; directly correlates with PCB trace sizing and upstream fuse coordination. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; sets thermal derating limits for repetitive surge duty cycles. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount package with 0.208" × 0.157" footprint; compatible with standard SMT pick-and-place and reflow profiles. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads. Cathode indicated by black band on one end; anode is unmarked. Meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient current sink node | Connected to protected line; conducts surge current to ground during overvoltage events. |
| Anode (unmarked end) | Reference/return path | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return plane; completes clamping current path. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low profile SMA package | Enables compact PCB layouts in space-constrained automotive ECUs and industrial controllers. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Supports lead-free reflow up to 260 °C peak without moisture-induced popcorning or delamination. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification option | HE3/HM3 variants available for automotive-grade applications requiring validated reliability testing. |
| Automated placement compatibility | Standard tape-and-reel packaging (E3/5A = 7500 pcs per 13" reel) enables high-throughput SMT assembly. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Supply Protection | Industrial Motor Drive Input Stage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed microcontroller power rails from load-dump transients (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between VIN and GND to clamp surges exceeding 15 V. Use Value: Limits voltage seen by downstream LDOs and MCUs to ≤24.4 V during 500 W transients, preventing latch-up or permanent damage. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding gate drivers and bootstrap circuits in 3-phase inverter modules from cross-conduction spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted across DC-link capacitors to absorb commutation energy and suppress ringing. Use Value: Fast 10/1000 µs response clamps voltage overshoot within 100 ns, preserving MOSFET gate oxide integrity. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer Appliance Power Entry |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers and PoE injectors from ESD and lightning-induced surges on outdoor cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed on differential pair inputs with series impedance to limit current into IC pins. Use Value: 24.4 V clamping ensures transceiver I/O remains within absolute maximum ratings even during 20.5 A surge events. |
Use Scenario: Guarding AC-DC adapter primary-side rectifiers and secondary-side 5 V/3.3 V rails in smart home hubs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Installed across bulk capacitor terminals to absorb switch-mode noise and surge coupling. Use Value: 500 W rating handles repeated 10/1000 µs surges from nearby appliance switching without degradation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15A-E3/57T | Lower PPPM (400 W), higher VC (24.9 V at 18.3 A), same VWM/VBR range | Less robust for high-energy transients; suitable only where IEC 61000-4-5 level 3 compliance is sufficient | Select SMA5J15A-E3/5A when 500 W surge immunity is required per ISO 16750-2 or MIL-STD-1275. |
| SMCJ15A-E3/73 | Higher power (1500 W), larger SMC (DO-214AB) package, same electrical specs but different thermal profile | Requires larger PCB area and higher thermal mass; used where sustained surge repetition is expected | Choose SMA5J15A-E3/5A for space-constrained designs needing 500 W in minimal footprint; use SMCJ15A-E3/73 only if >1 kW rating is mandatory. |
Compared with SMAJ15A-E3/57T and SMCJ15A-E3/73, the SMA5J15A-E3/5A delivers optimal balance of 500 W surge capacity, SMA package size, and automotive-ready construction-making it preferred for cost-sensitive, volume automotive and industrial control applications where board space and reflow compatibility are critical.
Availability
SMA5J15A-E3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power supply protection, industrial motor drive input stages, and telecom line interface protection requiring stable component supply, full RoHS compliance, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for SMA5J15A-E3/5A 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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, power density, and automotive qualification.
The SMA5J series was engineered specifically for high-power-density transient suppression in harsh environments, targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications demanding AEC-Q101 readiness and robust 10/1000 µs surge immunity.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMA5J15A-E3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMA5J15A-E3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 20.5 A using a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured under standardized test conditions per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SMA5J15A-E3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its specified operating temperature range.
Is the SMA5J15A-E3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMA5J15A-E3/5A is RoHS-compliant and manufactured to commercial-grade specifications; AEC-Q101 qualified versions (e.g., SMA5J15AHE3_A) are available with identical electrical characteristics. While the base E3/5A variant is not AEC-Q101 certified, its construction-including glass passivation, MSL Level 1 rating, and -55 °C to +150 °C operating range-supports deployment in non-safety-critical automotive subsystems. For SMA5J15A-E3/5A, confirm qualification status via ordering code suffix before use in automotive production.
What does the "E3/5A" suffix indicate in SMA5J15A-E3/5A?
The "E3" suffix denotes RoHS-compliant, commercial-grade construction with matte tin-plated leads meeting J-STD-002 solderability standards. The "5A" indicates packaging in 13-inch diameter plastic tape and reel containing 7500 units. This format supports high-volume automated assembly. The SMA5J15A-E3/5A is distinct from HE3 (AEC-Q101 qualified) and M3 (halogen-free) variants, which carry different reliability and compliance profiles.
How does the SMA5J15A-E3/5A compare to bidirectional TVS diodes like SMA5J15CA?
The SMA5J15A-E3/5A is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity identification, while SMA5J15CA is bidirectional with no polarity marking and symmetrical clamping in both directions. SMA5J15A-E3/5A exhibits forward conduction behavior below ~0.7 V, making it unsuitable for AC signal lines; SMA5J15CA is required for protecting balanced interfaces like RS-485. Their VWM, VBR, and VC values differ due to structural asymmetry-SMA5J15A-E3/5A cannot substitute for SMA5J15CA without circuit redesign.
What PCB layout considerations apply to the SMA5J15A-E3/5A?
For optimal thermal and electrical performance, the SMA5J15A-E3/5A must be mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal, as specified in the datasheet for derated power handling. Minimize trace length between the TVS and protected node, avoid vias in high-current paths, and ensure solid ground plane connection to the anode pad. The SMA5J15A-E3/5A's RθJA of 80 °C/W assumes this layout; smaller pads increase junction temperature and reduce surge endurance.
SMA5J15A-E3/5A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 20.5A
- 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)
SMA5J15A-E3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J15A-E3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J15A-E3/5A 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 SMA5J15A-E3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J15A-E3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMA5J15A-E3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J15A-E3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J15A-E3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J15A-E3/5A?
SMA5J15A-E3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J15A-E3/5A 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 SMA5J15A-E3/5A?
For technical support, including SMA5J15A-E3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J15A-E3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J15A-E3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J15A-E3/5A 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 SMA5J15A-E3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J15A-E3/5A?
All SMA5J15A-E3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J15A-E3/5A, 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 SMA5J15A-E3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J15A-E3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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