Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ12AHE3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ12AHE3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ12AHE3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,939
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ12AHE3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping fast voltage transients on power and signal lines. It features a 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 19.9 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 20.1 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces in automotive and industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ12AHE3/5A datasheet, SMAJ12AHE3/5A pinout, SMAJ12AHE3/5A application, or SMAJ12AHE3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional polarity, AEC-Q101 qualification, 1.0 μA max reverse leakage at VWM, 150 °C max junction temperature, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamping protection device triggered by overvoltage events such as inductive load switching or ESD. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown behavior, while low incremental surge resistance enables effective energy diversion during transient events.
The SMAJ12AHE3/5A is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (derated to 300 W above 78 V), supports 40 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine), and exhibits a temperature coefficient of VBR of +0.083 %/°C - critical for thermal stability in automotive under-hood environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins |
| VBR min/max | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - guaranteed breakdown range defining turn-on threshold |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V at 20.1 A - clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 μs surge |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak transient power handling capability under standard waveform |
| IFSM | 40 A - surge current rating for 8.3 ms half-sine, unidirectional only |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature enabling operation in engine control units |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - thermal resistance indicating need for adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile case with matte tin-plated leads; cathode indicated by band marking; meets MSL level 1 (JEDEC J-STD-020), LF peak 260 °C.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., ground or return path) in unidirectional configuration |
| Cathode | Reverse-biased clamping terminal | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); band-marked end absorbs positive transients |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS sensors |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Robust suppression of ISO 7637-2 pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b, and IEC 61000-4-5 surges without degradation |
| Fast response time & low VC | Clamps within picoseconds to limit voltage overshoot below IC absolute maximum ratings |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures long-term reliability and stable VBR performance across temperature and life cycles |
| MSL Level 1 | Enables standard reflow soldering without moisture sensitivity concerns |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed ECUs from load dump and alternator transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamping TVS placed between power rail and ground. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤19.9 V during 20.1 A surge, preventing damage to MCU power inputs and CAN transceivers. | Use Scenario: Shielding analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from ESD and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-entry protection on signal lines before op-amp or ADC input. Use Value: Clamps sub-100 ns ESD pulses to safe levels while adding <1 pF capacitance, preserving signal integrity. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input Protection | Telecom DC Power Feeds |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding AC/DC adapter secondary-side outputs against surge coupling from primary side. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-side TVS on regulated 12 V output rail. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W transients without failure, maintaining compliance with UL 497B surge protector classification. | Use Scenario: Protecting -48 V telecom power distribution boards from lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS on feed line to downstream DC-DC converters. Use Value: Withstands repetitive 10/1000 μs surges up to 300 W above 78 V, ensuring uptime in outdoor cabinets. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12A-E3/5A | No AEC-Q101 qualification; commercial-grade only | Not suitable for automotive production; acceptable for industrial prototypes | Select when AEC-Q101 is not required and cost is prioritized |
| SMAJ12CAHE3/5A | Bidirectional variant; symmetric clamping in both polarities | Required for AC-coupled or floating signal lines where polarity reversal occurs | Choose for differential bus protection (e.g., RS-485) or dual-rail systems |
Compared with SMAJ12AHE3/5A, the SMAJ12A-E3/5A lacks automotive qualification but offers identical electrical specs, while SMAJ12CAHE3/5A provides bidirectional clamping at the expense of higher capacitance and no anode/cathode polarity distinction - making SMAJ12AHE3/5A optimal for grounded 12 V rail protection where unidirectional response and AEC-Q101 compliance are mandatory.
Availability
SMAJ12AHE3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power management, industrial sensor interface design, and telecom DC feed protection requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for SMAJ12AHE3/5A 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 and automotive-grade validation.
The SMAJ series is engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where robustness, AEC-Q101 compliance, and repeatable clamping performance are essential.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ12AHE3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ12AHE3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at 20.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuits during surge events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within their absolute maximum ratings. The SMAJ12AHE3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its specified operating temperature range.
Is SMAJ12AHE3/5A qualified for automotive use?
Yes, SMAJ12AHE3/5A is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's ordering code suffix "HE3", which denotes RoHS-compliant and AEC-Q101 qualified variants. This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and ESD - validating suitability for automotive powertrain, chassis, and body electronics. The SMAJ12AHE3/5A is explicitly listed in Vishay's AEC-Q101 documentation for the SMAJ family.
What is the reverse leakage current of SMAJ12AHE3/5A at its stand-off voltage?
The SMAJ12AHE3/5A exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 μA at its 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), measured at TA = 25 °C. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss in always-on systems and avoids false triggering in high-impedance sensing circuits. The value is verified per the manufacturer's electrical characteristics table and remains stable across the full operating temperature range due to the device's glass-passivated junction.
What package type does SMAJ12AHE3/5A use, and what are its mounting requirements?
SMAJ12AHE3/5A uses the SMA (DO-214AC) surface-mount package, with dimensions of 4.50 mm × 2.79 mm × 2.29 mm and matte tin-plated leads. It requires mounting on minimum 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal for rated 400 W pulse power dissipation. The SMAJ12AHE3/5A meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 and supports standard lead-free reflow profiles with peak temperature up to 260 °C.
How does SMAJ12AHE3/5A differ from SMAJ12CAHE3/5A?
SMAJ12AHE3/5A is unidirectional with cathode-band marking and optimized for clamping positive transients on grounded rails, whereas SMAJ12CAHE3/5A is bidirectional with symmetric breakdown in both directions and no polarity marking. The SMAJ12AHE3/5A has lower capacitance and tighter VBR tolerance for DC rail protection, while SMAJ12CAHE3/5A suits AC or floating lines like RS-485. Both share AEC-Q101 qualification and SMA packaging, but their circuit roles and layout requirements differ fundamentally.
SMAJ12AHE3/5A 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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 20.1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- 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)
SMAJ12AHE3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ12AHE3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ12AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ12AHE3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ12AHE3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ12AHE3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ12AHE3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ12AHE3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ12AHE3/5A?
SMAJ12AHE3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ12AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ12AHE3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ12AHE3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ12AHE3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ12AHE3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ12AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ12AHE3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ12AHE3/5A?
All SMAJ12AHE3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ12AHE3/5A, 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 SMAJ12AHE3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ12AHE3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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