Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMA6F12A-M3/6A
- Part No.:
- SMA6F12A-M3/6A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-221AC, SMA Flat Leads
- Datasheet:
-
SMA6F12A-M3/6A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 23.5VC DO221AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:10,265
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMA6F12A-M3/6A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in SlimSMA (DO-221AC) package, designed for clamping fast-rising ESD and surge transients on power and signal lines. It features 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR at 1 mA), 18.8 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 31.9 A (10/1000 μs), 600 W peak pulse power rating, and IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 ESD immunity (±15 kV air / ±8 kV contact).
For engineers reviewing the SMA6F12A-M3/6A datasheet, SMA6F12A-M3/6A pinout, SMA6F12A-M3/6A application, or SMA6F12A-M3/6A equivalent, this device is selected for robust overvoltage protection in space-constrained consumer, industrial, and telecom interfaces where low-profile mounting, automated placement compatibility, and stable clamping performance under repetitive surges are required.
Technical Context
The SMA6F12A-M3/6A operates as a Zener-based unidirectional TVS diode, leveraging avalanche breakdown to clamp transient voltages above its VBR threshold while maintaining low leakage (<0.2 μA at 12 V) below VWM. Its dynamic resistance (RD) is 0.128 Ω, enabling predictable clamping behavior per VC = RD × IPP + VBRmax.
Thermally, it supports junction temperatures from –55 °C to +175 °C, with RθJA of 120–150 °C/W on FR4 PCB and 12–15 °C/W junction-to-mount. It meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, confirming suitability for lead-free reflow assembly without solderability degradation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before significant conduction begins; defines safe operating margin for 12 V rail protection. |
| VBR (min/max) | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown range ensures reliable turn-on during transients without premature triggering. |
| VC @ IPP | 18.8 V at 31.9 A (10/1000 μs) - Clamping voltage limits downstream IC stress during 600 W surge events. |
| PPPM (10/1000 μs) | 600 W - Sustains standardized lightning-surge energy without failure; derates linearly above 25 °C ambient. |
| ID @ VWM | ≤ 0.2 μA - Ultra-low leakage preserves battery life and signal integrity in always-on sensor or interface circuits. |
| ESD Rating | IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4: ±15 kV air / ±8 kV contact - Validated human-body-model robustness for handheld and exposed ports. |
| Package | SlimSMA (DO-221AC), 0.95 mm typical height - Enables high-density PCB layouts and compatibility with standard SMT pick-and-place equipment. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SlimSMA (DO-221AC), surface-mount, unidirectional configuration with cathode band marking. Dimensions: 4.15–4.35 mm length × 2.50–2.70 mm width × 0.95 mm height. Matte tin-plated leads, RoHS-compliant, halogen-free.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal during forward bias; connected to protected line's lower-potential side (e.g., GND or return path) | Provides low-impedance path to ground when transient exceeds VBR; must be routed with minimal inductance to maintain clamping speed. |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal during reverse-bias clamping; marked by color band, connected to protected line's higher-potential side (e.g., VCC or signal) | Defines polarity-sensitive connection - reversal causes permanent damage; critical for correct orientation in automated assembly. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Very low profile (0.95 mm typical height) | Enables use in ultra-thin consumer devices and stacked PCB assemblies where Z-height is constrained. |
| Peak pulse power: 600 W (10/1000 μs) | Withstands common IEC 61000-4-5 surge test levels without degradation, supporting industrial-grade reliability. |
| ESD immunity: IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 | Eliminates need for additional ESD protection stages on USB, HDMI, or button inputs in end-user-facing products. |
| MSL Level 1, LF peak 260 °C | Supports single-pass lead-free reflow without moisture-induced popcorning or delamination. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, industrial grade | Meets global environmental compliance requirements and extended temperature operation (–55 °C to +175 °C TJ). |
Applications
| USB 2.0 Data Lines | Automotive Body Control Module Inputs |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting D+ and D– lines against ESD events during cable insertion and hot-plug operations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping transient energy before it reaches the USB transceiver IC. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in USB PHYs while maintaining signal integrity up to 480 Mbps due to low capacitance and fast response. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding microcontroller GPIOs connected to door lock switches, mirror controls, and lighting sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transient suppression on 12 V supply rails and low-voltage sensor inputs exposed to load-dump and inductive switching noise. Use Value: Ensures functional safety compliance by limiting voltage excursions to <20 V during 100 V/50 ms load-dump pulses per ISO 7637-2. |
| Industrial PLC Digital I/O Channels | Telecom Power Supply Input Stage |
Use Scenario: Shielding isolated digital input modules from field-wiring induced surges in factory automation environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary front-end protection element placed directly at connector entry point before optocoupler or level-shifter. Use Value: Delivers 600 W surge handling with <1 ns response time, reducing need for secondary protection and simplifying board layout. |
Use Scenario: Clamping AC/DC adapter output transients and back-EMF from relay coils in VoIP phone power supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS absorbing 8/20 μs surges up to 4 kW at the 12 V DC output rail. Use Value: Maintains regulated output stability during EN 61000-4-4 EFT bursts and prevents brownout resets in downstream SoCs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMA6F12A-M3/6B | Same electrical specs and SlimSMA package; differs only in tape-and-reel packaging (14,000 pcs/reel vs. 3,500 pcs/reel). | No functional difference; used interchangeably where volume procurement or feeder compatibility dictates reel size. | Select SMA6F12A-M3/6B for high-volume SMT production lines requiring longer reel life and reduced changeover frequency. |
| SMAJ12A-M3/61 | Higher 400 W PPPM (10/1000 μs), larger SMA (DO-214AC) package (2.3 mm height), 21.2 V VC at 27.5 A. | Less suitable for ultra-thin designs; better for higher-energy surges where board space allows larger footprint. | Choose SMAJ12A-M3/61 only when surge energy exceeds 600 W and SlimSMA height constraint is relaxed. |
Compared with SMA6F12A-M3/6A, SMA6F12A-M3/6B offers identical protection performance with optimized logistics, while SMAJ12A-M3/61 trades compactness for higher surge capacity - making SMA6F12A-M3/6A the optimal balance of low profile, 600 W capability, and industrial-grade reliability.
Availability
SMA6F12A-M3/6A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB interface protection, automotive body electronics, and industrial I/O conditioning requiring stable component supply, consistent MSL Level 1 compliance, and verified halogen-free material content.
Supply support for SMA6F12A-M3/6A 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, TVS, MOSFETs, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMA6FxxA series is engineered for high-density, automated surface-mount transient protection across consumer, industrial, and automotive systems - prioritizing low profile, ESD robustness, and thermal resilience in harsh environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SMA6F12A-M3/6A under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SMA6F12A-M3/6A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 18.8 V at 31.9 A for a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per the standard test condition defined in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 89458), ensuring predictable voltage limiting during surge events without exceeding downstream IC absolute maximum ratings.
Is the SMA6F12A-M3/6A suitable for bidirectional signal line protection?
No, the SMA6F12A-M3/6A is unidirectional only, as explicitly stated in the Vishay datasheet. It must be connected with cathode toward the protected line and anode to ground. For bidirectional protection (e.g., RS-485 or AC-coupled signals), a dedicated bidirectional TVS such as SMBJ12CA or equivalent is required - SMA6F12A-M3/6A will fail if reverse-biased beyond its VWM.
Does the SMA6F12A-M3/6A meet automotive qualification standards?
The SMA6F12A-M3/6A is not AEC-Q200 qualified, but it meets key automotive-relevant specifications: operating junction temperature up to +175 °C, MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, and IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 ESD. It is commonly used in non-safety-critical automotive body electronics; however, for ASIL-B/C systems, AEC-Q200-qualified alternatives must be selected.
What is the thermal resistance junction-to-ambient (RθJA) for the SMA6F12A-M3/6A on a standard PCB?
The SMA6F12A-M3/6A has a typical RθJA of 120 °C/W and a maximum of 150 °C/W when mounted on an FR4 PCB with 2 oz. copper and standard footprint, per JEDEC 51-2A. This value enables accurate thermal derating of power dissipation (PD = 8 W at 55 °C) in real-world board layouts without heatsinks.
Can the SMA6F12A-M3/6A replace SMAJ12A in existing designs?
Direct replacement is not recommended. While both share 12 V VWM, the SMA6F12A-M3/6A has lower PPPM (600 W vs. 400 W for SMAJ12A), different package (SlimSMA vs. SMA), and distinct clamping characteristics (18.8 V vs. 21.2 V VC). Layout, thermal, and surge-energy requirements must be revalidated; the SMA6F12A-M3/6A is optimized for space-constrained applications, not higher-power ones.
SMA6F12A-M3/6A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-221AC, SMA Flat Leads
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 23.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 157A (8/20µs)
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 4000W (4kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-221AC (SlimSMA)
SMA6F12A-M3/6A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMA6F12A-M3/6A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMA6F12A-M3/6A 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 SMA6F12A-M3/6A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMA6F12A-M3/6A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMA6F12A-M3/6A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMA6F12A-M3/6A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMA6F12A-M3/6A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMA6F12A-M3/6A?
SMA6F12A-M3/6A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMA6F12A-M3/6A 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 SMA6F12A-M3/6A?
For technical support, including SMA6F12A-M3/6A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMA6F12A-M3/6A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMA6F12A-M3/6A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMA6F12A-M3/6A 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 SMA6F12A-M3/6A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMA6F12A-M3/6A?
All SMA6F12A-M3/6A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMA6F12A-M3/6A, 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 SMA6F12A-M3/6A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMA6F12A-M3/6A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMA6F12A-M3/6A Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

