Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I 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 15 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 24.4 V clamping voltage (VC) at 20.5 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 500 W peak pulse power (PPPM) with 10/1000 µs waveform - used to safeguard automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O circuits against ESD and load-switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I datasheet, SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I pinout, SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I application, or SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, 150 °C junction temperature rating, low incremental surge resistance, and compatibility with automated SMT assembly on 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar during transient events, leveraging an avalanche breakdown mechanism with glass-passivated junction for stable, repeatable performance. Its bidirectional symmetry ensures identical electrical characteristics in both polarities, eliminating polarity-dependent layout constraints in AC-coupled or differential signal paths.
The SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I is rated for non-repetitive 10/1000 µs surges up to 500 W and derates linearly above 25 °C ambient per Figure 2; thermal resistance is 80 °C/W junction-to-ambient (RθJA) when mounted on minimum recommended pad layout, supporting reliable operation in enclosed automotive ECUs and industrial controllers.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe signal swing range for protected line. |
| VBR min/max | 16.7 V / 18.5 V - breakdown voltage range at 1 mA test current; ensures predictable turn-on threshold across production lot. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V at 20.5 A - clamping voltage under full-rated 10/1000 µs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 500 W - peak pulse power handling capacity; enables robust protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature; supports under-hood automotive deployment and high-temperature industrial environments. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - surface-mount package with 5.28 mm × 4.50 mm footprint and 2.29 mm height; compatible with standard reflow profiles and J-STD-020 MSL level 1. |
Pinout & Package
SMA (DO-214AC) package: molded epoxy case with matte tin-plated leads, no polarity marking (bidirectional), UL 94 V-0 rated, RoHS-compliant and AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (unmarked) | Transient conduction path | Bidirectional terminals - either terminal serves as anode or cathode depending on instantaneous polarity of surge event. |
| Case (body) | Thermal and mechanical interface | Non-electrical; provides mechanical anchoring and contributes to thermal dissipation via PCB copper pads. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing - required for engine control, ADAS sensor, and body electronics. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Enables tighter clamping (VC − VBR ≈ 7.7 V) and lower let-through energy compared to legacy TVS families - critical for protecting low-voltage logic inputs. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable breakdown voltage over lifetime and immunity to humidity-induced parameter drift - improves long-term field reliability in harsh environments. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and exposure to 260 °C peak reflow without preconditioning - simplifies manufacturing and eliminates bake-out steps. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and inductive switching transients in vehicle subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed directly at connector entry point to shunt surge energy before reaching ASIC or MCU input pins. Use Value: Clamps 15 V nominal lines to ≤24.4 V during 20.5 A surges, preserving signal integrity and preventing latch-up in 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback and motor drive noise in factory automation systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transient suppression element on 24 V DC input channels, placed upstream of optocoupler or Schmitt-trigger input circuitry. Use Value: Withstands repetitive 500 W surges while maintaining <1 µA leakage at 15 V - avoids false triggering and ensures stable logic-level detection. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Power Adapter Input |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side surge protection on Ethernet PHY power rails and RS-485 termination networks in network infrastructure equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response clamping device across VDD/VSS rails to absorb ESD and lightning-induced common-mode transients. Use Value: 10 ns response time and 24.4 V clamping limit ensure compliance with IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 (15 kV air/8 kV contact) without degrading data rate. |
Use Scenario: Input-stage transient suppression in USB-C PD adapters and multi-port chargers subjected to hot-plug and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-line TVS between AC-DC rectifier output and primary-side controller supply rail. Use Value: AEC-Q101 qualification and 150 °C TJ rating allow operation in thermally constrained adapter enclosures without derating. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMA5J15CAHM3_A/I | Halogen-free variant with identical electrical specs and AEC-Q101 qualification; same thermal and clamping performance. | Required where halogen-free material compliance (e.g., JEDEC J-STD-609) is mandated in end-equipment specifications. | Select SMA5J15CAHM3_A/I only if halogen-free content is contractually required; otherwise SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I offers standard RoHS compliance at lower cost. |
| SMA6J15CAHE3_A/I | 600 W PPPM rating (vs. 500 W), higher IPPM (24.5 A), same VWM/VC, identical package and AEC-Q101 qualification. | Preferred for designs requiring margin beyond ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a or IEC 61000-4-5 combination wave (10/700 µs + 1.2/50 µs) testing. | Choose SMA6J15CAHE3_A/I when system-level surge testing demands >500 W headroom; SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I remains optimal for cost-sensitive AEC-Q101-compliant designs meeting baseline requirements. |
Compared with SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I, SMA5J15CAHM3_A/I adds halogen-free compliance without performance trade-offs, while SMA6J15CAHE3_A/I delivers 20 % higher surge power handling - enabling design margin extension without PCB layout changes or thermal redesign.
Availability
SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line protection requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 qualification, and consistent 500 W surge capability.
Supply support for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.
The SMA5J series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS platform, engineered for high-power-density transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and communications systems where space-constrained layouts demand robust, AEC-Q101-qualified protection.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I under maximum rated surge current?
The SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 20.5 A using a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 1 in the official Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 88875, Rev. 09-Jan-2024) and represents the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transient events. The SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's ordering code suffix "HE3" and documentation in the datasheet revision dated 09-Jan-2024. It meets stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), temperature cycling, and ESD per AEC-Q101 standards. The SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I is deployed in engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces where sustained operation up to +150 °C junction temperature is required.
How does the bidirectional configuration of the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I affect circuit design?
The SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I has no polarity marking and exhibits symmetrical electrical characteristics in both directions, making it ideal for AC-coupled lines, differential buses (e.g., RS-485), or any application where voltage transients may occur with either polarity. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I eliminates the need for orientation verification during placement and avoids risk of incorrect installation - reducing assembly errors and field failures in high-volume automotive and industrial production.
What is the thermal resistance of the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I, and how does it impact layout?
The SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 80 °C/W when mounted on the minimum recommended 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal, as specified in the Vishay datasheet. This value assumes standard FR-4 PCB construction and dictates that PCB copper area must be maintained to avoid exceeding +150 °C junction temperature under repeated surge conditions. Reducing pad size increases RθJA and risks thermal runaway during burst-mode transients.
Does the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I require derating at elevated ambient temperatures?
Yes, the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I must be derated above TA = 25 °C, following the linear derating curve in Figure 2 of the Vishay datasheet (Doc. No. 88875). At 85 °C ambient, its peak pulse power rating drops to approximately 300 W - a 40 % reduction. Designers must apply this derating when specifying surge immunity for under-hood automotive modules or sealed industrial enclosures where ambient temperatures exceed 25 °C, ensuring the SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I remains within safe operating limits during real-world operation.
SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I 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):
- 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:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I 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 SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I?
SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I 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 SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I 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 SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I?
All SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I, 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 SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J15CAHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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