Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 18VWM 29.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMA5J18CAHE3_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 18 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), clamping voltage of 29.2 V at 17.1 A IPPM, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I datasheet, SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I pinout, SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I application, or SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low incremental surge resistance, RoHS-compliant + AEC-Q101 qualified construction, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates symmetrically in both directions due to its bidirectional CA suffix configuration, enabling protection against positive and negative transients without polarity sensitivity. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance and low leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM), while the low RθJL (25 °C/W) supports reliable thermal dissipation during repetitive surge events.
The device complies with ANSI/IEEE C62.35 for transient suppression and meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow), making it suitable for high-reliability industrial and automotive PCB assemblies where ESD and load-switching spikes must be clamped below 29.2 V without forward conduction.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 18 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe working margin for 12–15 V nominal systems. |
| VBR min/max | 20.0 V / 22.1 V - Verified breakdown range at 1 mA test current; ensures consistent turn-on across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM | 29.2 V at 17.1 A - Clamped voltage under 10/1000 μs surge; guarantees protected ICs see ≤29.2 V during worst-case transients. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power handling per 10/1000 μs waveform; supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive environments. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount outline with 5.28 mm length, 4.50 mm width, and 2.29 mm height; compatible with standard pick-and-place feeders. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per AEC specification. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), bidirectional configuration - no polarity marking; symmetrical terminals.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient current path | Both terminals function identically; surge current flows bidirectionally through the same junction structure. |
| Case (body) | Thermal and mechanical interface | Plastic body provides UL 94 V-0 flammability rating; copper pad mounting required for rated PPPM performance. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines without external polarity management. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures long-term VBR stability and low leakage drift over temperature and lifetime in harsh environments. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Supports lead-free reflow up to 260 °C peak without popcorn or delamination; eliminates pre-bake requirements. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates suitability for automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS modules requiring zero-defect reliability. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a/5a), improving system robustness. |
Applications
| Automotive CAN Bus Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN_H/CAN_L differential pair in vehicle ECUs from load dump and ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed across differential bus lines to limit transients to <29.2 V. Use Value: Prevents CAN transceiver damage during battery disconnect events and meets ISO 16750-2 electrical load dump requirements. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs (4–20 mA, 0–10 V) of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS shunting induced surges on sensor output traces before ADC input. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity during motor drive switching noise; leakage <1.0 μA avoids DC offset errors. |
| Telecom Power Input Protection | Consumer USB Port ESD Suppression |
Use Scenario: Front-end protection of 12–24 V DC power inputs in base station remote radio units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge limiter absorbing IEC 61000-4-5 combination wave surges before DC/DC converter. Use Value: Withstands 500 W pulses without degradation; thermal resistance (RθJA = 80 °C/W) enables board-level thermal design. |
Use Scenario: ESD protection on USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in smart home hubs and portable audio devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response (sub-nanosecond) clamp limiting ESD strikes to <29.2 V at ±8 kV contact discharge. Use Value: Meets IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4; matte tin plating ensures solder joint reliability per J-STD-002. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMA5J18CAHM3_A/I | Halogen-free version; identical VWM, VBR, VC, and PPPM; same AEC-Q101 qualification. | Required where halogen-free compliance is mandated by OEM or regional environmental regulations (e.g., EU automotive Tier 1). | Select SMA5J18CAHM3_A/I when halogen-free material content is contractually specified; otherwise SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is preferred for cost-sensitive designs. |
| SMC5J18CAHE3_A/I | Larger SMC (DO-214AB) package; same electrical specs but higher thermal mass and 1500 W PPPM rating. | Suitable for higher-energy surge environments (e.g., 48 V battery systems) where PCB space allows larger footprint. | Choose SMC5J18CAHE3_A/I only if system-level surge testing exceeds 500 W; SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I remains optimal for space-constrained automotive modules. |
Compared with SMA5J18CAHM3_A/I, the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I offers identical protection performance with standard RoHS compliance-ideal for non-halogen-restricted programs. Against SMC5J18CAHE3_A/I, it trades higher power handling for 40 % smaller board area, making it the preferred choice for compact ECU layouts.
Availability
SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial sensor interfaces, and telecom power input circuits requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 assurance and full traceability.
Supply support for SMA5J18CAHE3_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, rectifiers, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMA5J series is engineered for high-power-density transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments, delivering robust 500 W surge handling in the compact SMA package while meeting stringent AEC-Q101 and RoHS requirements.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I clamps to a maximum of 29.2 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 17.1 A (10/1000 μs waveform). This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and verified at TA = 25 °C on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads. The SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I maintains this clamping performance across its operational temperature range, ensuring predictable protection behavior in real-world surge events.
Is the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly designated for automotive use with the "HE3" suffix indicating RoHS-compliant + AEC-Q101 qualification. It has passed stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD per AEC standards. The SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is deployed in engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS modules where transient immunity to load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses is mandatory.
Does the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I have polarity markings?
No, the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is a bidirectional TVS diode and carries no cathode band or polarity marking on its SMA (DO-214AC) package. Its symmetrical construction allows installation in either orientation on the PCB, simplifying layout and eliminating risk of reverse placement. This feature is intrinsic to all "CA"-suffixed devices in the SMA5J family, including the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I.
What is the maximum leakage current of the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I at its stand-off voltage?
The SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 μA at its 18 V stand-off voltage (VWM), measured at TA = 25 °C. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss and avoids interference with sensitive analog or low-current digital circuits. The SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I maintains this specification across its full operating temperature range (-55 °C to +150 °C), supporting stable performance in extreme environments.
Can the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I be used in place of a unidirectional TVS like SMA5J18AHE3_A/I?
No-the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is bidirectional and not a drop-in replacement for unidirectional types such as SMA5J18AHE3_A/I. While both share identical VWM and PPPM ratings, the unidirectional version conducts only in reverse bias and requires correct cathode orientation. Substituting the SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I in a unidirectional circuit may cause unintended forward conduction or fail to suppress positive transients. Always verify circuit topology before interchange.
SMA5J18CAHE3_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):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 17.1A
- 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)
SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J18CAHE3_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 SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J18CAHE3_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 SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I?
SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J18CAHE3_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 SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J18CAHE3_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 SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I?
All SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J18CAHE3_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 SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J18CAHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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