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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ12CA-M3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ12CA-M3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,198
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping ESD and surge transients on signal/power lines. It features 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 19.9 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 20.1 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform), commonly deployed to protect MOSFET gates and sensor I/O in automotive body control modules.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ12CA-M3/5A datasheet, SMAJ12CA-M3/5A pinout, SMAJ12CA-M3/5A application, or SMAJ12CA-M3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping symmetry, low leakage (<1.0 μA at 12 V), MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, halogen-free RoHS compliance, and AEC-Q101 qualification readiness via HM3 suffix variants.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar during transient overvoltage events, leveraging an avalanche breakdown junction with 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA test current. Its bidirectional structure eliminates polarity dependency, enabling direct placement across differential or AC-coupled lines without orientation constraints.
Thermal performance is defined by 120 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads and 30 °C/W junction-to-lead (RθJL). It sustains repetitive 10/1000 μs surges at 0.01% duty cycle up to 400 W below 78 V - derated linearly above that threshold to 300 W.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 μA; sets upper limit for normal circuit operation. |
| VBR min/max | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown range ensures reliable turn-on margin above VWM with minimal dispersion. |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V at 20.1 A - Clamping voltage under 10/1000 μs surge defines worst-case stress on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity determines survivability against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV, 2 Ω source). |
| IFSM | 40 A - Non-repetitive forward surge rating supports protection of rectifier-fed rails during load dump events. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature enables use in under-hood automotive environments with minimal derating. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount outline with 5.28 mm length, 4.50 mm width, and 2.29 mm height; compatible with automated pick-and-place. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated, MSL Level 1 (260 °C reflow peak). Bidirectional construction means no cathode/anode marking - both terminals are functionally symmetric.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Anode / Cathode (bidirectional) | Either terminal serves as transient current entry point; symmetrical conduction enables placement across any two-node interface without polarity check. |
| Terminal 2 | Anode / Cathode (bidirectional) | Paired terminal completes low-impedance surge path to ground or rail; no internal polarity - identical electrical behavior in both directions. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, differential buses (e.g., CAN, RS-485), or ungrounded power rails without polarity concerns. |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 combination wave surges up to 4 kV (2 Ω source impedance) without degradation when mounted per recommended pad layout. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VWM = 1.66) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on protected ICs - e.g., keeps 3.3 V logic I/O below 20 V during surge, preserving gate oxide integrity. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (M3) | Fulfills automotive and industrial environmental requirements while maintaining solderability per J-STD-002 and whisker resistance per JESD 201 Class 2. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | HM3 suffix variants are fully qualified for automotive applications; this M3 version shares identical die and assembly process, supporting qualification traceability. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial Sensor Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus transceivers and door lock actuator drivers from load dump and inductive switching spikes in 12 V vehicle systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Voltage-clamping TVS placed between LIN line and ground, responding within <1 ns to clamp transients to ≤20 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to LIN transceivers (e.g., TLE6250) during battery disconnect events with >100 surge cycles endurance. |
Use Scenario: Shielding 4–20 mA current loop inputs in PLC analog input modules from field wiring surges and ESD. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional shunt protector across loop terminals, conducting surge energy away from precision op-amps and ADC front-ends. Use Value: Maintains loop accuracy by limiting voltage excursion to <20 V during 1 kV/500 Ω surge, avoiding saturation of instrumentation amplifiers. |
| Consumer USB Power Delivery | Telecom Ethernet PHY Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding USB-C VBUS line against hot-plug transients and adapter overvoltage in portable chargers and power banks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed between VBUS and GND, clamping 15 V overvoltage to 20 V before USB PD controller shuts down. Use Value: Enables robust 12 V VBUS operation while meeting USB-IF ESD immunity requirements (±15 kV air, ±8 kV contact) without additional capacitance. |
Use Scenario: Protecting 10/100BASE-TX Ethernet PHY pins (MDI) from lightning-induced surges entering via RJ45 jacks in VoIP phones and access points. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS across each twisted pair, absorbing common-mode surges before they reach magnetics or PHY ICs. Use Value: Limits induced differential voltage to <20 V during 1.2/50 μs + 8/20 μs combo wave tests, preventing PHY reset or transformer core saturation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12A-M3/5A | Unidirectional variant with cathode band marking; same VWM, VBR, VC, and PPPM; requires correct polarity placement. | Restricted to DC-biased lines (e.g., 12 V supply rail to MCU); unsuitable for AC or differential signals. | Select when protecting single-rail DC paths where polarity is fixed and lower cost is prioritized over design flexibility. |
| SMBJ12CA-M3/5A | Same electrical specs but in larger SMB (DO-214AA) package; 600 W PPPM rating; 1.5× footprint area; higher thermal mass. | Better suited for high-energy industrial surges (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 5); less space-constrained layouts. | Choose when board space allows and surge energy exceeds 400 W - e.g., motor drive I/O or outdoor telecom equipment. |
Compared with SMAJ12A-M3/5A, SMAJ12CA-M3/5A offers polarity-agnostic placement critical for differential interfaces; versus SMBJ12CA-M3/5A, it trades 200 W pulse power headroom for 30% smaller PCB area and compatibility with fine-pitch automated assembly.
Availability
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor nodes, consumer USB-C power delivery systems, and telecom Ethernet PHY protection requiring stable component supply and halogen-free compliance.
Supply support for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and automotive-grade qualification.
The SMAJ series targets board-level transient suppression in space-constrained, high-reliability applications - engineered for fast response, repeatable clamping, and seamless integration into automotive, industrial, and communications designs.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A under surge conditions?
The SMAJ12CA-M3/5A exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 20.1 A using the standardized 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and represents the worst-case voltage seen by protected circuitry during transient events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The SMAJ12CA-M3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SMAJ12CA-M3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMAJ12CA-M3/5A is built on the same die and assembly process as AEC-Q101-qualified variants (e.g., SMAJ12CA-HM3_X), making it suitable for automotive use pending final qualification. Its halogen-free M3 construction, 150 °C junction rating, and ability to withstand load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses align with automotive environmental demands. For production deployment in safety-critical systems, the HM3-suffixed AEC-Q101 version of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A is recommended.
How does the bidirectional design of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A affect PCB layout?
The bidirectional architecture of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A eliminates polarity marking - both terminals are electrically identical - allowing placement across any two-node interface without orientation verification. This simplifies layout for differential signals (e.g., CAN H/L), AC-coupled lines, or floating grounds. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, SMAJ12CA-M3/5A avoids risk of reverse-bias failure due to incorrect mounting, reducing assembly errors and inspection overhead in high-volume manufacturing.
What is the thermal resistance of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A, and how does it impact power dissipation?
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads per Vishay's recommended layout. This value directly limits steady-state power handling: at 25 °C ambient, its 3.3 W rated power dissipation corresponds to a ~400 °C junction rise - confirming it is intended only for transient, not continuous, power absorption. For repeated surges, thermal mass and PCB copper area dominate safe operation, not RθJA.
Does SMAJ12CA-M3/5A meet industry surge immunity standards like IEC 61000-4-5?
Yes, SMAJ12CA-M3/5A is rated for 400 W peak pulse power with a 10/1000 μs waveform - matching the energy profile of IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV, 2 Ω source impedance) when properly applied with appropriate series impedance and PCB layout. Its 19.9 V clamping voltage ensures protected circuits remain within safe operating zones during such events. Compliance validation requires system-level testing per IEC 61000-4-5, but SMAJ12CA-M3/5A provides the foundational clamping capability required for pass-level performance.
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A 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 SMAJ12CA-M3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A?
SMAJ12CA-M3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ12CA-M3/5A 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 SMAJ12CA-M3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ12CA-M3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ12CA-M3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ12CA-M3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ12CA-M3/5A 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 SMAJ12CA-M3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ12CA-M3/5A?
All SMAJ12CA-M3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ12CA-M3/5A, 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 SMAJ12CA-M3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ12CA-M3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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