Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ160CAHE3/61
- Part No.:
- SMAJ160CAHE3/61
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ160CAHE3/61.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 259VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,690
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on power and signal lines. It features a 160 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 178–197 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 259 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 1.2 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform), suitable for automotive-grade protection of DC power rails and sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ160CAHE3/61 datasheet, SMAJ160CAHE3/61 pinout, SMAJ160CAHE3/61 application, or SMAJ160CAHE3/61 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, low thermal resistance (RθJL = 30 °C/W), and compatibility with automated SMT assembly on standard PCB pad layouts.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamping protector using an avalanche junction structure, responding to transient overvoltages within picoseconds. Its bidirectional symmetry enables use without polarity consideration across AC-coupled or floating lines, and its glass-passivated chip junction ensures stable leakage performance under thermal cycling.
The SMAJ160CAHE3/61 is rated for repetitive surge duty cycle ≤ 0.01 %, derated above TA = 25 °C per Fig. 2, and meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 with peak reflow temperature up to 260 °C. It supports unidirectional surge current up to 40 A (8.3 ms half-sine) only in unidirectional variants - not applicable here due to CA suffix.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 160 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe DC bias margin for protected line. |
| VBR min/max | 178 V / 197 V at IT = 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown range ensures predictable turn-on threshold under standardized test conditions. |
| VC @ IPPM | 259 V at 1.2 A - Clamping voltage during 10/1000 μs transient; determines worst-case overvoltage seen by downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 400 W (≤ 78 V); 300 W (> 78 V) - Peak pulse power handling capacity defines survivability against IEC 61000-4-5 surge events. |
| ID @ VWM | 1.0 μA - Reverse leakage at stand-off voltage; low value minimizes standby power loss and avoids false triggering. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature rating enables reliable operation in under-hood automotive environments. |
| RθJL | 30 °C/W - Junction-to-lead thermal resistance supports efficient heat transfer to PCB copper pads without heatsink. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking. Dimensions: 4.50 mm × 2.79 mm × 2.29 mm (L × W × H), matte tin-plated leads, RoHS-compliant and AEC-Q101 qualified.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry (bidirectional) | One terminal of symmetrical avalanche junction; accepts surge current from either direction during overvoltage event. |
| Cathode | Transient current exit (bidirectional) | Second terminal of symmetrical junction; completes low-impedance path to ground or return rail during clamping. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and ADAS sensor interfaces per stress test requirements. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 Ω) surges on 12 V/24 V systems without degradation. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Enables tight clamping window (VC − VWM = 99 V), minimizing overvoltage stress on protected MOSFETs or microcontrollers. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak reflow | Compatible with standard lead-free SMT reflow profiles without preconditioning or special handling. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures long-term stability of VBR and ID parameters across temperature and humidity stress conditions. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V/24 V supply inputs in body control modules against load dump and inductive switching transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed between power rail and ground, activated within <1 ps upon overvoltage detection. Use Value: Limits transient overshoot to ≤259 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream PMICs and CAN transceivers. |
Use Scenario: Shielding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA current loops) of pressure/temperature sensors from ESD and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS shunting surge energy away from precision op-amps and ADC front-ends. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity with <1.0 μA leakage at 160 V, avoiding offset drift or measurement error in millivolt-range signals. |
| Telecom DC Feeder Protection | Consumer Device USB/Power Port Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding -48 V DC power feeds in telecom base station remote radio units exposed to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device on input stage, coordinated with upstream fuses and secondary filtering. Use Value: Delivers 300 W clamping capacity above 78 V, meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 3 surge immunity requirements. |
Use Scenario: Hardening 5 V/9 V/12 V USB PD and barrel jack inputs in smart home hubs against user-handling ESD and adapter fault transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line transient suppressor mounted adjacent to connector, before DC-DC converters and USB controllers. Use Value: Enables compact layout with SMA footprint and eliminates need for additional series impedance due to low Rsurge. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ160CA-M3/61 | Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, commercial grade (non-AEC-Q101). | Lacks automotive qualification; suitable for industrial or consumer applications where AEC compliance is not mandated. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs automotive qualification requirement and thermal profile remains within commercial limits. |
| SMBJ160CAHE3/61 | Same VWM/VBR/VC specs but in SMB (DO-214AA) package - 25 % larger footprint, 50 % higher PPPM (600 W). | Better surge handling margin but requires larger PCB area; less suitable for space-constrained automotive modules. | Choose when system-level surge testing exceeds 400 W and board layout allows SMB footprint. |
Compared with SMAJ160CAHE3/61, the M3 variant trades automotive reliability for lower cost in non-automotive settings, while the SMBJ160CAHE3/61 offers higher surge robustness at the expense of PCB real estate - making SMAJ160CAHE3/61 the optimal balance of AEC-Q101 compliance, 400 W capability, and miniaturized SMA packaging.
Availability
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial sensor systems, and telecom infrastructure requiring stable component supply with full traceability and lifecycle management.
Supply support for SMAJ160CAHE3/61 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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, power efficiency, and automotive-grade validation.
The SMAJ series targets high-reliability transient suppression in harsh environments, engineered specifically for AEC-Q101 compliance, low-profile SMT integration, and consistent clamping performance across temperature and lifetime.
FAQ
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
The "CA" suffix denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning SMAJ160CAHE3/61 functions identically in both polarities, with symmetric breakdown and clamping characteristics. Unlike unidirectional "A" variants, it has no cathode band marking and is used where polarity cannot be guaranteed, such as AC signal lines or floating DC buses. This symmetry is confirmed in the primary characteristics table and electrical specifications section of the Vishay datasheet.
Is SMAJ160CAHE3/61 suitable for 48 V automotive systems?
Yes, SMAJ160CAHE3/61 is appropriate for 48 V mild-hybrid vehicle systems. Its 160 V stand-off voltage provides >3× margin above nominal 48 V rail, and its 259 V clamping voltage ensures protected components remain below typical 300 V absolute maximum ratings. The AEC-Q101 qualification further validates its suitability for under-hood temperature cycling and vibration environments encountered in 48 V architectures.
How does the HE3 suffix affect the specifications of SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
The "HE3" suffix indicates RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification - distinguishing it from commercial-grade E3 or M3 variants. SMAJ160CAHE3/61 retains identical electrical specs (VWM, VBR, VC, PPPM) but undergoes extended stress testing per AEC-Q101, including HTGB, TCT, and UHAST. This ensures long-term reliability in automotive applications where failure modes must be rigorously controlled.
What is the maximum allowable PCB pad size for optimal thermal performance of SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
Vishay specifies that SMAJ160CAHE3/61 achieves its rated 400 W peak pulse power when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. Smaller pads reduce thermal dissipation capability and may cause premature failure under repeated surges. The device's RθJL = 30 °C/W assumes this minimum pad area; reducing pad size increases junction temperature rise proportionally and degrades surge endurance.
Can SMAJ160CAHE3/61 replace SMAJ150CAHE3/61 in an existing design?
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 can replace SMAJ150CAHE3/61 only if the protected circuit's maximum transient voltage tolerance exceeds 259 V and the 160 V stand-off provides sufficient margin over operating voltage. While both share identical package, AEC-Q101 qualification, and thermal specs, SMAJ160CAHE3/61 has higher VWM and VC - potentially allowing higher system voltage but reducing clamping headroom. Verify system-level surge testing post-replacement.
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 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):
- 160V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 178V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 259V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1.2A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 300W
- 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)
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ160CAHE3/61 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ160CAHE3/61 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 SMAJ160CAHE3/61 reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ160CAHE3/61 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ160CAHE3/61 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ160CAHE3/61 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ160CAHE3/61 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 SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
For technical support, including SMAJ160CAHE3/61 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ160CAHE3/61 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ160CAHE3/61 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ160CAHE3/61 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 SMAJ160CAHE3/61 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ160CAHE3/61?
All SMAJ160CAHE3/61 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ160CAHE3/61, 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 SMAJ160CAHE3/61 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ160CAHE3/61:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ160CAHE3/61 Tags

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