Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J15CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- SMA5J15CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J15CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMA5J15CAHM3/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 maximum clamping voltage at 20.5 A peak pulse current (IPPM), 500 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and operates from –55 °C to +150 °C. It is used to protect automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O lines against ESD and load dump transients.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J15CAHM3/I datasheet, SMA5J15CAHM3/I pinout, SMA5J15CAHM3/I application, or SMA5J15CAHM3/I equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, clamping performance under standardized surge waveforms, and direct alternatives with documented polarity and power handling differences.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS diode uses a glass-passivated silicon junction to achieve fast response (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance. Its symmetrical breakdown behavior (VBR min/max = 16.7 V / 18.5 V at 1 mA) ensures consistent clamping in both directions, critical for AC-coupled or floating signal paths.
The device is rated for 500 W peak pulse power under 10/1000 µs waveform, derated above 25 °C per Fig. 2, and exhibits 80 °C/W typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance. Its halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction (HM3 suffix) and AEC-Q101 qualification confirm suitability for automotive-grade PCBs requiring long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe working range for protected circuitry. |
| VBR (min/max) | 16.7 V / 18.5 V at 1 mA - Confirmed bidirectional breakdown threshold; ensures symmetric surge conduction in either polarity. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V at 20.5 A - Clamping voltage under full-rated 10/1000 µs surge; determines worst-case overvoltage seen by downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling capability; enables protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV/2 Ω) when properly mounted. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; supports operation in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures. |
| 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 (MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak). |
Pinout & Package
SMA5J15CAHM3/I is housed in an SMA (DO-214AC) surface-mount package with two terminals: Cathode and Anode. As a bidirectional device, it has no polarity marking; both terminals are functionally identical and interchangeable in circuit layout.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Surge current entry (positive half-cycle) | Conducts transient current into the device during positive voltage excursions relative to cathode; forms one side of symmetrical clamping path. |
| Cathode | Surge current entry (negative half-cycle) | Conducts transient current into the device during negative voltage excursions relative to anode; completes bidirectional clamping loop. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, differential buses (e.g., RS-485), or ungrounded sensor outputs without polarity concerns. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control modules, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces per stress test requirements. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets automotive OEM material compliance mandates (e.g., GMW3172, Ford WSS-M99P9999-A1) and supports lead-free assembly. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a), improving protection margin for 3.3 V/5 V logic. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial I/O Port Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) in vehicle ECUs from load dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamp placed across differential pair or supply rail to shunt surge energy before reaching sensitive front-end amplifiers or communication ICs. Use Value: Limits induced overvoltage to ≤24.4 V during 10/1000 µs surges up to 20.5 A, preserving signal integrity and preventing latch-up in 5 V tolerant receivers. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding PLC digital input modules and fieldbus interfaces (e.g., Profibus, Modbus RTU) against lightning-induced surges on 24 V DC control lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression element installed at connector entry point, upstream of optocouplers or level shifters. Use Value: Withstands repeated 500 W pulses without degradation, enabling >100,000 surge events per MIL-STD-883H Method 3015.8 criteria. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input | Telecom Line Interface Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression in USB-C PD adapters and AC/DC wall adapters exposed to mains-borne transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp TVS placed between output rail and ground to absorb residual spikes escaping primary-side MOVs and Y-capacitors. Use Value: 15 V VWM aligns with 12–15 V regulated outputs; 24.4 V VC ensures downstream DC-DC controllers remain within absolute maximum ratings. |
Use Scenario: Protecting Ethernet PHYs and DSL line drivers from ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±8 kV contact) and telecom ring-trip surges (GR-1089-CORE). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp on differential pairs (e.g., TX+/TX–) to preserve signal rise/fall times while suppressing common-mode transients. Use Value: Junction capacitance <100 pF at 0 V bias (per Fig. 4) avoids signal distortion at 100 Mbps Ethernet speeds. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ15CA | Same 15 V VWM and bidirectional configuration, but rated for 400 W PPPM (vs. 500 W); higher clamping voltage (26.5 V at 17.5 A). | Lower power handling limits use in high-energy industrial surge environments; suitable for consumer-grade 24 V systems with lower threat levels. | Select SMAJ15CA only if system-level surge testing confirms 400 W sufficiency and layout allows margin for higher VC. |
| ON Semiconductor 1.5SMC15CA | Same 15 V VWM and 500 W rating, but in larger SMC (DO-214AB) package (7.11 mm × 6.22 mm); 25.5 V VC at 19.6 A. | Larger footprint requires PCB redesign; higher thermal mass improves sustained surge endurance but reduces board density. | Choose 1.5SMC15CA when thermal dissipation under repetitive surges outweighs space constraints, e.g., outdoor telecom cabinets. |
Compared with SMA5J15CAHM3/I, SMAJ15CA offers smaller footprint but reduced surge margin, while 1.5SMC15CA provides identical power rating in a thermally superior but area-intensive package-making SMA5J15CAHM3/I optimal for space-constrained AEC-Q101 automotive designs needing 500 W clamping in SMA outline.
Availability
SMA5J15CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O protection, and telecom line interface circuits requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 qualification and halogen-free compliance.
Supply support for SMA5J15CAHM3/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, rectifiers, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, power density, and automotive qualification.
The SMA5J series was engineered for high-power-density transient suppression in space-constrained automotive and industrial applications, combining AEC-Q101 validation, halogen-free materials, and industry-standard DO-214AC packaging.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMA5J15CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMA5J15CAHM3/I clamps to a maximum of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated 20.5 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and confirmed in the Vishay datasheet revision 09-Jan-2024, ensuring predictable overvoltage limiting for downstream 24 V tolerant circuitry. The SMA5J15CAHM3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SMA5J15CAHM3/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, SMA5J15CAHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as indicated by the "HM3" suffix in its part number. This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and ESD robustness-specifically validating its use in automotive subsystems such as body control modules and sensor interfaces. The SMA5J15CAHM3/I meets the reliability requirements defined in the AEC-Q101 standard for discrete semiconductors.
Does SMA5J15CAHM3/I have polarity markings on the package?
No, SMA5J15CAHM3/I does not feature polarity markings because it is a bidirectional TVS diode. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMA5J15A), the SMA5J15CAHM3/I conducts symmetrically in both directions and has no cathode band or other visual indicator. This design eliminates orientation errors during automated placement and simplifies layout for AC-coupled or floating signal lines.
What is the maximum junction temperature rating for SMA5J15CAHM3/I?
The SMA5J15CAHM3/I has a maximum junction temperature (TJ max.) of +150 °C, as specified in the Vishay datasheet. This rating supports reliable operation in under-hood automotive environments and enclosed industrial enclosures where ambient temperatures may exceed 105 °C. Derating curves (Fig. 2) define allowable power reduction above 25 °C ambient to maintain this TJ limit.
How does the HM3 suffix differ from the M3 suffix in Vishay TVS diodes?
The HM3 suffix in SMA5J15CAHM3/I denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction *and* AEC-Q101 qualification, whereas the M3 suffix indicates halogen-free and RoHS compliance only-without automotive qualification. This distinction is critical for automotive Tier 1 suppliers requiring formal AEC-Q101 documentation; the SMA5J15CAHM3/I provides both material compliance and validated reliability for automotive deployment.
SMA5J15CAHM3/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:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- 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:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMA5J15CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J15CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J15CAHM3/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 SMA5J15CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J15CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMA5J15CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J15CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J15CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J15CAHM3/I?
SMA5J15CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J15CAHM3/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 SMA5J15CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including SMA5J15CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J15CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J15CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J15CAHM3/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 SMA5J15CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J15CAHM3/I?
All SMA5J15CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J15CAHM3/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 SMA5J15CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J15CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMA5J15CAHM3/I Tags

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