Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 20VWM 32.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMA5J20CAHE3_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 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 22.2–24.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), clamping voltage of 32.4 V at 15.4 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.
For engineers reviewing the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I datasheet, SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I pinout, SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I application, or SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low clamping ratio (VC/VWM ≈ 1.62), MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, and compatibility with automated SMT assembly on consumer, industrial, and automotive PCBs.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates symmetrically in both polarities due to its bidirectional construction, enabling protection of AC-coupled or differential signal paths without polarity constraints. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage performance (<1.0 µA at VWM) and robust surge handling up to 15.4 A under standardized 10/1000 µs transients.
The device is thermally rated for continuous operation from −55 °C to +150 °C, with RθJA = 80 °C/W and RθJL = 25 °C/W, supporting reliable performance on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads. Its AEC-Q101 qualification confirms suitability for automotive electronics subject to harsh thermal and mechanical stress cycles.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe working range for protected circuitry. |
| VBR (min/max) | 22.2 V / 24.5 V - Breakdown occurs within this band at 1 mA test current; ensures predictable turn-on threshold across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM | 32.4 V at 15.4 A - Clamped voltage during 500 W transient; limits downstream voltage stress to ≤32.4 V under worst-case surge. |
| PPPM | 500 W - Peak pulse power rating per 10/1000 µs waveform; supports protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount package with 2.54 mm lead pitch; compatible with standard reflow profiles and J-STD-002 solderability. |
| Qualification | AEC-Q101 qualified - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock testing. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated, MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak reflow profile compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (unmarked) | Bidirectional terminal pair | No polarity marking required; terminals are functionally identical and symmetrical for AC or differential line protection. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, RS-485 buses, or ungrounded sensor interfaces without external polarity management. |
| 500 W peak pulse power | Withstands 10/1000 µs transients up to 15.4 A-meets IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity requirements for industrial and automotive systems. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive under-hood applications including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VWM = 1.62) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream ICs compared to higher-ratio TVS devices, improving system-level ESD/surge margin. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak | Eliminates bake-out requirement prior to SMT assembly; supports direct placement into high-volume automated manufacturing lines. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial RS-485 Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed directly at connector entry point to shunt surge energy before reaching sensitive analog front-ends or communication ICs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity during 12 V/24 V system transients by limiting clamped voltage to 32.4 V while surviving repeated 500 W surges. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding long-distance RS-485 data lines in factory automation PLCs and motor drives exposed to ground potential differences and lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Differential-line TVS mounted across A/B bus terminals to suppress common-mode and differential-mode transients without distorting signal edges. Use Value: Enables robust 10 Mbps+ communication over 1200 m cable runs by clamping fast-rising transients (<1 ns response) while adding <1 pF parasitic capacitance. |
| Consumer USB Port Protection | Power Supply Input Clamp |
Use Scenario: Hardening USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in portable chargers and docking stations against ESD events per IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV contact discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional TVS placed adjacent to USB connector to divert ESD current away from USB PHY ICs. Use Value: Provides sub-1 ns response and <1.0 µA leakage at 20 V, preserving signal integrity and minimizing standby power loss in battery-powered devices. |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage clamp on 24 V DC input rails of industrial controllers and PoE-powered equipment subjected to inductive switching spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS connected between VIN and GND to absorb repetitive 500 W surges from relay coil flyback or solenoid switching. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or destruction of downstream DC-DC converters by limiting transient voltage to 32.4 V with no degradation after ≥1000 surges. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bidirectional TVS diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMA5J20CAHM3_A/I | Halogen-free variant with identical electrical specs and AEC-Q101 qualification; same package and thermal performance. | Required where halogen-free compliance (IEC 61249-2-21) is mandated for end-product environmental certification. | Select SMA5J20CAHM3_A/I when RoHS + halogen-free material declaration is contractually required; otherwise SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I offers full equivalence at standard cost. |
| SMCJ20CAHE3_A/I | Same VWM/VBR/VC ratings but in larger SMC (DO-214AB) package; 1500 W PPPM, higher IPPM (43.4 A), RθJA = 35 °C/W. | Suitable for higher-energy surge environments (e.g., outdoor telecom, solar inverters) where PCB space permits larger footprint. | Choose SMCJ20CAHE3_A/I only if system-level surge testing exceeds 500 W; SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I remains optimal for space-constrained automotive and portable designs. |
Compared with SMA5J20CAHM3_A/I, the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I offers identical protection performance with standard RoHS compliance but excludes halogen-free certification; versus SMCJ20CAHE3_A/I, it trades 3× lower surge capacity for 40 % smaller board area and compatibility with fine-pitch SMT lines.
Availability
SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial RS-485 networks, and consumer USB interface protection requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 traceability, and MSL Level 1 manufacturability.
Supply support for SMA5J20CAHE3_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, power density, and automotive-grade qualification.
The SMA5JxxCA family delivers high-power-density TVS protection in compact surface-mount packages, engineered specifically for automotive electronics, industrial controls, and communications infrastructure needing robust, AEC-Q101-compliant transient suppression.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I under maximum surge conditions?
The SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I clamps to 32.4 V at its peak pulse current of 15.4 A (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured and guaranteed per Vishay's datasheet (Document Number: 88875, Rev. 09-Jan-2024) and defines the maximum voltage seen by protected circuitry during a 500 W transient event. The SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly designated for automotive use in Vishay's ordering nomenclature (HE3 suffix denotes RoHS-compliant + AEC-Q101 qualification). It has passed stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and mechanical shock, making it appropriate for engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces where SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is deployed.
Does the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I have polarity markings on the package?
No, the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I does not feature polarity markings because it is a bidirectional TVS diode. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMA5J20A), the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I has symmetrical electrical characteristics in both directions, and its SMA (DO-214AC) package lacks a cathode band or other orientation indicators-both terminals are functionally interchangeable.
What is the maximum leakage current of the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I at its standoff voltage?
The SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 µA at its 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), tested at TA = 25 °C per Vishay's Electrical Characteristics table. This low leakage ensures minimal impact on power budget and signal integrity in battery-powered or high-impedance sensing circuits where SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is applied.
Can the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I be used in automated SMT assembly lines?
Yes, the SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is optimized for automated placement: it meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020, supports peak reflow temperatures up to 260 °C, and features matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Its consistent DO-214AC geometry and tape-and-reel packaging (7" or 13" reels) ensure reliable pick-and-place yield in high-volume manufacturing using SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I.
SMA5J20CAHE3_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):
- 20V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 22.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 32.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 15.4A
- 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)
SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA5J20CAHE3_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 SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA5J20CAHE3_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 SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I?
SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA5J20CAHE3_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 SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA5J20CAHE3_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 SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I?
All SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA5J20CAHE3_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 SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMA5J20CAHE3_A/I Tags

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