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Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SMAJ160CA
- Part No.:
- SMAJ160CA
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ160CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 259VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:5,356
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ160CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional 400W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-214AC (SMA) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection in DC power rails. It features a 160V working stand-off voltage (VWM), 178–218V breakdown voltage (VBR @ 1mA), and clamps to ≤287V at 1A peak impulse current under 10/1000μs waveform - deployed in automotive power modules and industrial DC/DC converters.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ160CA datasheet, SMAJ160CA pinout, SMAJ160CA application, or SMAJ160CA equivalent, this device is evaluated for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/2b/3a/3b compliance, bidirectional clamping symmetry, moisture sensitivity level 1 handling, and RoHS/halogen-free qualification - critical for automotive-grade ESD and load-dump protection design.
Technical Context
The SMAJ160CA implements a glass-passivated silicon junction optimized for fast transient response (<1.0ps from 0V to VBR min) and low leakage (<1μA at VWM). Its bidirectional configuration enables symmetrical clamping in AC-coupled or floating bus applications without polarity constraints.
It delivers 400W peak pulse power (10/1000μs) up to 78V VWM, derating linearly above 25°C ambient per Fig.2; at 160V VWM, peak pulse power remains 400W per specification table, with maximum clamping voltage of 287V at rated IPPM = 1.0A.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 160 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe DC rail margin for 12V–48V systems with headroom. |
| VBR @ IT=1mA | 178–218 V - Measured breakdown range confirming bidirectional symmetry and process consistency across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM=1.0A | ≤287 V - Clamping voltage under standardized 10/1000μs surge; determines protected circuit's maximum transient stress level. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power rating per 10/1000μs waveform; supports single-event load dump or ESD events in automotive ECUs. |
| IR @ VWM | ≤1 μA - Reverse leakage at rated stand-off voltage; ensures minimal quiescent power loss in always-on battery-connected circuits. |
| Junction Temp Range | −55°C to +150°C - Enables deployment in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures without thermal derating penalties. |
Pinout & Package
DO-214AC (SMA) surface-mount package: molded epoxy case meeting UL 94V-0, matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability, polarity indicated by cathode band (bidirectional operation renders band non-functional but retained for marking consistency).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (marked band) | Bidirectional terminal pair | Identical electrical behavior in both directions; no functional polarity - band is mechanical reference only. |
| Case / Body | Non-terminating | No internal thermal or electrical connection to package body; thermal path relies on PCB copper area under leads. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ISO 7637-2 compliance | Validated for Pulse 1 (inductive switch-off), Pulse 2a/2b (battery disconnect/connect), and Pulse 3a/3b (capacitive coupling) - essential for automotive OEM qualification. |
| Fast response time | <1.0 ps rise-to-breakdown - protects sensitive downstream ICs (e.g., CAN transceivers, microcontrollers) before transient energy couples into signal paths. |
| Moisture sensitivity level 1 | No floor life limitation or bake requirement prior to reflow - simplifies SMT line integration and reduces manufacturing overhead. |
| RoHS & halogen-free | Complies with IEC 61249-2-21 and EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU - meets environmental requirements for global automotive and industrial shipments. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Module Protection | Industrial DC/DC Converter Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12V/24V battery-fed power modules in engine control units against load dump transients per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp placed directly at module input, absorbing up to 400W surges without failure. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or destruction of upstream PMICs and gate drivers during alternator field collapse events. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding isolated DC/DC converter inputs in programmable logic controllers exposed to switching noise and inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS shunting transient energy before it reaches primary-side controller ICs and transformer windings. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by eliminating reset events caused by >160V rail excursions during relay switching or motor commutation. |
| LED Driver Power Stage | Telecom Power Supply Input |
Use Scenario: Securing constant-current LED driver inputs in streetlight systems subject to lightning-induced surges on long outdoor wiring runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line transient suppression at AC-DC rectifier output, clamping spikes before they reach PWM controller and MOSFET gate drivers. Use Value: Extends LED system lifetime by preventing cumulative degradation of electrolytic capacitors and ICs from repeated sub-threshold transients. |
Use Scenario: Protecting -48V telecom power supply inputs from induced surges on central office distribution lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamp ensuring symmetric protection regardless of ground-referenced or floating supply architecture. Use Value: Eliminates need for separate unidirectional devices on positive/negative rails, reducing BOM count and PCB area in space-constrained telecom modules. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ160A | Unidirectional variant with identical VWM (160V), VBR (178–197V), and VC (259V); requires correct polarity placement. | Limited to DC-biased rails where polarity is fixed and reverse conduction must be blocked. | Select SMAJ160A only when circuit topology guarantees unidirectional voltage stress and reverse leakage must be minimized below 0.5μA. |
| SMBJ160CA | Same electrical specs but in larger DO-214AA (SMB) package; 600W PPPM rating (vs. 400W); higher thermal mass. | Better suited for high-energy, repetitive surge environments where SMB footprint and thermal dissipation are acceptable. | Choose SMBJ160CA when board layout allows larger footprint and system-level testing demands >400W single-pulse capability or improved thermal cycling endurance. |
Compared with SMAJ160A and SMBJ160CA, the SMAJ160CA uniquely balances bidirectional protection, compact DO-214AC footprint, and ISO 7637-2 compliance - making it optimal for space-constrained automotive and industrial modules requiring polarity-agnostic surge immunity.
Availability
SMAJ160CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power modules, industrial DC/DC converters, LED driver power stages, and telecom power supply inputs requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for SMAJ160CA 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, specializing in TVS diodes, rectifiers, MOSFETs, and power management components.
The SMAJ series was developed specifically for automotive and industrial transient suppression, emphasizing ISO 7637-2 compliance, high-reliability packaging, and tight parametric control across temperature and lot variations.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ160CA at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ160CA clamps to a maximum of 287 V when subjected to its rated peak impulse current of 1.0 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per test condition specified in the Taiwan Semiconductor datasheet revision U2102 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events.
Is SMAJ160CA suitable for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) protection?
The SMAJ160CA is explicitly rated for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b - but not Pulse 5a, which requires higher energy absorption (up to 1500W). For Pulse 5a, designers should consider higher-power alternatives such as 5.0SMDJ160CA or stacked TVS configurations; SMAJ160CA remains appropriate for lower-energy transients in the same automotive environment.
Does SMAJ160CA have polarity-sensitive mounting requirements?
No - SMAJ160CA is a bidirectional TVS diode, meaning its electrical performance is identical in both directions. The cathode band marking is retained for mechanical consistency with unidirectional variants but carries no functional significance; orientation on PCB does not affect clamping behavior or protection efficacy.
What is the maximum operating junction temperature for SMAJ160CA?
The SMAJ160CA has a maximum junction temperature (TJMAX) of +150°C, validated across its full operating ambient range of −55°C to +150°C. This rating enables reliable operation in under-hood automotive locations and sealed industrial enclosures without active cooling, provided PCB thermal relief meets TSC's recommended pad layout guidelines.
How does SMAJ160CA differ from SMAJ160A in practical circuit implementation?
SMAJ160CA is bidirectional and mounts without polarity concern, while SMAJ160A is unidirectional and must be oriented with the cathode band toward the more negative potential. In a 12V automotive system, SMAJ160A would clamp only negative transients unless paired with another device - whereas SMAJ160CA handles both polarities inherently, simplifying layout and reducing component count.
SMAJ160CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- SMAJ
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 160V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 178V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 259V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1.2A
- 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)
SMAJ160CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ160CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ160CA 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 SMAJ160CA reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ160CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ160CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ160CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ160CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ160CA?
SMAJ160CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ160CA 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 SMAJ160CA?
For technical support, including SMAJ160CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ160CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ160CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ160CA 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 SMAJ160CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ160CA?
All SMAJ160CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ160CA, 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 SMAJ160CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ160CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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