My Inquiry
My Account
Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ15AHE3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ15AHE3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ15AHE3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:6,340
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMAJ15AHE3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 15 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 24.4 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 16.4 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 μs waveform). It is widely deployed to safeguard MOSFET gates, microcontroller I/O pins, and sensor interfaces against ESD and inductive switching transients in automotive and industrial control systems.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ15AHE3/5A datasheet, SMAJ15AHE3/5A pinout, SMAJ15AHE3/5A application, or SMAJ15AHE3/5A equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance data (RθJA = 120 °C/W), polarity marking convention (cathode band), and real-world clamping behavior under standardized surge conditions - all critical for layout-aware TVS selection and reliability validation.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: when reverse voltage exceeds VWM = 15 V, it avalanches into low-impedance conduction, limiting transient energy to safe levels across protected circuit nodes. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response time (<1 ps), while the SMA package supports automated SMT placement and meets MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow).
The device is rated for 40 A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM, 8.3 ms half-sine), has a maximum junction temperature of +150 °C, and exhibits low incremental surge resistance - enabling effective suppression of high-dI/dt transients induced by relay switching or motor commutation without thermal runaway.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines operating margin below clamping threshold |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 16.7–18.5 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering above normal rail voltage |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 24.4 V at IPPM = 16.4 A - Peak voltage seen by protected IC during 10/1000 μs surge; determines stress on downstream components |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 μs) - Energy-handling capacity for single transient events; derates to 300 W above 78 V |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 16.4 A - Maximum surge current the device can safely divert without degradation |
| RθJA (Junction-to-Ambient) | 120 °C/W - Thermal resistance with minimum recommended copper pad; informs PCB thermal design for sustained surge duty |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per AEC standard |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002. Cathode identified by a single black band at one end; anode is unmarked.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient current sink | Connected to protected line; conducts avalanche current to ground during overvoltage event |
| Anode (unbanded end) | Reference node | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return path; completes shunt conduction loop |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Enables protection against severe ISO 7637-2 Load Dump and IEC 61000-4-5 surge events in 12 V automotive systems |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix) | Confirms suitability for automotive ECUs, body control modules, and ADAS sensors requiring long-term field reliability |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and low leakage (<1 μA at VWM) across temperature and lifetime |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Supports standard lead-free reflow profiles without moisture-induced popcorn failure or delamination |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VWM ≈ 1.63) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on protected ICs - critical for 3.3 V/5 V logic and low-threshold MOSFETs |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply inputs of engine control units (ECUs) against load dump transients up to 35 V and 100 ms duration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional shunt clamp placed between battery rail and local regulator input. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤24.4 V during 16.4 A surge, preventing regulator latch-up and preserving MCU operation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA current loop) of pressure sensors exposed to cable-induced surges in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable but used unidirectionally across sensor output and ground to absorb common-mode transients. Use Value: Clamps fast-rising spikes (<1 ns rise time) before they corrupt ADC sampling or damage op-amp front-end stages. |
| Consumer Device USB Port Protection | MOSFET Gate Drive Line Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding USB 2.0 VBUS line in portable medical monitors from ESD events per IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV contact discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed directly at USB connector, referenced to chassis ground. Use Value: Responds in <1 ps to divert >15 A ESD current, holding VC ≤24.4 V to prevent PHY IC damage. |
Use Scenario: Preventing gate oxide rupture in N-channel power MOSFETs driven by PWM controllers in DC-DC converters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS connected between gate and source, clamping negative-going transients from Miller coupling. Use Value: Suppresses −20 V undershoot spikes to ≤−24.4 V magnitude, ensuring gate-source voltage stays within ±20 V absolute max rating. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15A-E3/5A | No AEC-Q101 qualification; commercial grade only; identical electrical specs and package | Not suitable for automotive production; acceptable for industrial prototypes or consumer-grade designs | Select when AEC-Q101 compliance is not required and cost optimization is prioritized |
| SMAJ15CAHE3/5A | Bidirectional variant; symmetric VBR (16.7–18.5 V) in both polarities; same VC, PPPM, and package | Required for AC-coupled or floating signal lines where polarity reversal may occur (e.g., RS-485, CAN bus) | Choose for bidirectional protection needs; avoid if unidirectional clamping suffices and board space is constrained |
Compared with SMAJ15AHE3/5A, the SMAJ15A-E3/5A offers identical surge performance at lower qualification cost, while SMAJ15CAHE3/5A adds polarity symmetry at no clamping penalty - making the HE3-suffixed unidirectional version optimal for cost-sensitive, ground-referenced DC rail protection in automotive environments.
Availability
SMAJ15AHE3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial sensor interfaces, consumer USB power delivery circuits, and MOSFET gate drive protection requiring stable component supply and full AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for SMAJ15AHE3/5A 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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific performance.
The SMAJ series was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where robustness against ESD, lightning, and load dump is non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ15AHE3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ15AHE3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 16.4 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and reflects the worst-case voltage imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - a key parameter for verifying compatibility with downstream IC voltage tolerances. The SMAJ15AHE3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SMAJ15AHE3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMAJ15AHE3/5A is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive applications including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules. The HE3 suffix explicitly denotes AEC-Q101 qualification, covering stress tests such as temperature cycling, highly accelerated life testing (HALT), and ESD robustness. This makes SMAJ15AHE3/5A appropriate for under-hood and cabin-mounted systems where reliability under thermal and electrical stress is mandatory.
How does the SMAJ15AHE3/5A differ from the SMAJ15CAHE3/5A?
The SMAJ15AHE3/5A is unidirectional, with cathode marked by a band and intended for DC rail protection where polarity is fixed. In contrast, SMAJ15CAHE3/5A is bidirectional - symmetrical in both directions, with no polarity marking - and used for AC or floating signal lines like RS-485 or CAN. Both share identical VBR, VC, and PPPM, but SMAJ15AHE3/5A cannot replace SMAJ15CAHE3/5A in bidirectional applications without risking failure during reverse surges.
What is the thermal resistance of SMAJ15AHE3/5A, and how does it affect PCB layout?
The SMAJ15AHE3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on the minimum recommended 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. This value assumes no additional heatsinking; larger copper areas or internal planes reduce RθJA and improve surge endurance. For repeated surge events, designers must ensure average power dissipation stays below 3.3 W and junction temperature remains ≤150 °C - guiding pad size, spacing, and layer stackup decisions in the SMAJ15AHE3/5A layout.
Does SMAJ15AHE3/5A meet RoHS and halogen-free requirements?
Yes, SMAJ15AHE3/5A is RoHS-compliant and meets Vishay's material categorization standards per document 99912. The "HE3" suffix indicates RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification; it is not halogen-free - that designation applies only to HM3-suffixed variants. All HE3 devices use matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and pass JESD 22-B102 whisker testing (Class 2), ensuring long-term solder joint integrity in demanding environments.
SMAJ15AHE3/5A 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):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 16.4A
- 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)
SMAJ15AHE3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ15AHE3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ15AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ15AHE3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ15AHE3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ15AHE3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ15AHE3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ15AHE3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ15AHE3/5A?
SMAJ15AHE3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ15AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ15AHE3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ15AHE3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ15AHE3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ15AHE3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ15AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ15AHE3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ15AHE3/5A?
All SMAJ15AHE3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ15AHE3/5A, 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 SMAJ15AHE3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ15AHE3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ15AHE3/5A 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 …
