Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ15CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- SMAJ15CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ15CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,124
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ15CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 15 V standoff 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 with 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed on power rails and signal lines in automotive ECUs and industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ15CAHM3/I datasheet, SMAJ15CAHM3/I pinout, SMAJ15CAHM3/I application, or SMAJ15CAHM3/I equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance data, clamping performance under surge conditions, and direct alternatives for circuit-level ESD/transient protection design.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, enabling protection without polarity sensitivity in AC-coupled or floating signal paths. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM), while the 120 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance supports operation up to +150 °C junction temperature.
The device meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020, with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102, and is halogen-free and RoHS-compliant (HM3 suffix). It is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive use, with no marking on the case due to bidirectional construction.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before significant leakage; defines safe working range for protected line. |
| VBR (min/max) | 16.7 V / 18.5 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown threshold ensuring reliable turn-on during transients above 16.7 V. |
| VC @ IPPM | 24.4 V at 16.4 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; limits stress on downstream ICs to ≤24.4 V. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power handling capability; sustains 400 W surges without failure under standard test waveform. |
| IPPM | 16.4 A - Peak surge current supported at rated clamping voltage; determines minimum trace width and PCB layout margin. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables deployment in under-hood automotive environments. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - Thermal resistance from junction to ambient; informs heatsinking requirements on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking. Case dimensions: 4.93 mm × 3.99 mm × 2.29 mm (L × W × H), cathode band omitted per bidirectional design.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry (negative polarity) | Accepts negative-going surges; conducts to cathode during reverse-biased transient events. |
| Cathode | Transient current entry (positive polarity) | Accepts positive-going surges; conducts to anode during forward-biased transient events. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock per AEC standard. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (HM3) | Meets environmental compliance requirements for global automotive and industrial production without brominated flame retardants. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands high-energy transients such as ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a in vehicle power networks without degradation. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.46) | Minimizes overvoltage overshoot during clamping - critical for protecting 16 V-rated CAN transceivers and MCU I/Os. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Enables standard SMT reflow without baking; compatible with automated placement and lead-free assembly processes. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Line Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed microcontroller power inputs against load dump and alternator ripple in body control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed between VIN and GND, responding within <1 ps to transients exceeding 16.7 V. Use Value: Limits voltage seen by downstream LDOs and MCUs to ≤24.4 V during 400 W surges, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage. |
Use Scenario: Shielding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA current loop) from ESD and inductive switching noise in factory-floor pressure sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (≈150 pF at 0 V) shunt protector across signal and return, activated only during overvoltage events. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity below 20 kHz bandwidth while suppressing ±15 kV contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2. |
| Telecom Interface Surge Suppression | Consumer Device USB Port Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485 transceiver bus lines in outdoor telecom cabinets exposed to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Symmetrical bidirectional clamp on differential pair (A/B), referenced to common-mode ground. Use Value: Withstands repetitive 10/1000 μs surges up to 16.4 A without parameter shift - validated per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary overvoltage defense on VBUS line of USB 2.0 ports in smart home hubs after primary fuse and filter. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt device triggered when VBUS exceeds 16.7 V due to hot-swap or adapter fault. Use Value: Clamps VBUS to 24.4 V within nanoseconds, preventing damage to USB controller ICs rated for 5.5 V absolute maximum. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15CAHE3/I | Same electrical specs; RoHS-compliant but not halogen-free (E3 vs HM3); lacks AEC-Q101 qualification. | Approved for commercial/industrial use only; unsuitable for automotive OEM programs requiring halogen-free + AEC-Q101. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs automotive compliance or halogen-free mandate. |
| SMBJ15CAHM3/I | Same VWM, VBR, VC; higher PPPM = 600 W; larger SMB (DO-214AA) package (5.3 mm × 4.1 mm). | Supports higher surge energy; requires larger PCB footprint and different pad layout; better thermal dissipation (RθJA = 85 °C/W). | Choose when system-level surge testing exceeds 400 W or thermal margin is constrained. |
Compared with SMAJ15CAHM3/I, SMAJ15CAHE3/I omits halogen-free and AEC-Q101 compliance, while SMBJ15CAHM3/I trades compact size for 50% higher surge capacity and improved thermal performance - guiding selection based on footprint, compliance, and energy-handling priorities.
Availability
SMAJ15CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom infrastructure equipment, and consumer USB power protection requiring stable component supply and full AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for SMAJ15CAHM3/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, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMAJ series targets board-level transient suppression in harsh environments, with design focus on fast response, low clamping, and automotive-grade qualification - directly supporting ISO 16750 and ISO 7637-2 compliance.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ15CAHM3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ15CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 24.4 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 16.4 A, measured using the standardized 10/1000 μs double-exponential surge waveform. This value ensures downstream components see no more than 24.4 V during worst-case transient events, making SMAJ15CAHM3/I suitable for protecting 24 V nominal systems and 16 V-rated interface ICs.
Is SMAJ15CAHM3/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, SMAJ15CAHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's ordering code suffix "HM3" and documentation in datasheet 88390 (Revision 09-Jan-2024). This qualification covers stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature operating life, and ESD, validating SMAJ15CAHM3/I for under-hood and chassis-mounted automotive modules requiring long-term reliability.
How does the bidirectional configuration of SMAJ15CAHM3/I affect its PCB layout?
The bidirectional configuration of SMAJ15CAHM3/I eliminates polarity marking - the SMA (DO-214AC) package has no cathode band, allowing orientation-agnostic placement on PCBs. This simplifies layout for AC-coupled lines, differential buses (e.g., CAN, RS-485), or floating grounds where voltage polarity reversal may occur, reducing assembly errors and eliminating need for silkscreen polarity indicators for SMAJ15CAHM3/I.
What is the thermal resistance of SMAJ15CAHM3/I, and how does it impact board design?
SMAJ15CAHM3/I has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. This value assumes standard FR-4 PCB with no internal copper planes; designers must allocate adequate copper area around SMAJ15CAHM3/I pads to maintain junction temperature below +150 °C during repetitive surge events or elevated ambient conditions.
Does SMAJ15CAHM3/I meet moisture sensitivity level (MSL) requirements for lead-free reflow?
Yes, SMAJ15CAHM3/I meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020, meaning it can be stored indefinitely at ≤30 °C/85% RH and withstand standard lead-free reflow profiles (peak 260 °C) without baking. This eliminates pre-reflow moisture conditioning steps, streamlining SMT production for SMAJ15CAHM3/I in high-volume automotive and industrial manufacturing.
SMAJ15CAHM3/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:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMAJ15CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ15CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ15CAHM3/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 SMAJ15CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ15CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ15CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ15CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ15CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ15CAHM3/I?
SMAJ15CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ15CAHM3/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 SMAJ15CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including SMAJ15CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ15CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ15CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ15CAHM3/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 SMAJ15CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ15CAHM3/I?
All SMAJ15CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ15CAHM3/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 SMAJ15CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ15CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ15CAHM3/I Tags

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