Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation SMAJ160CH
- Part No.:
- SMAJ160CH
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ160CH.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 287VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,872
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ160CH from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 400W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-214AC (SMA) package, designed for automotive-grade overvoltage protection in DC power rails. It features a 160V working stand-off voltage (VWM), 178–218V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1mA test current, and clamps to ≤287V at 1A peak impulse current under 10/1000μs waveform.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ160CH datasheet, SMAJ160CH pinout, SMAJ160CH application, or SMAJ160CH equivalent, key selection criteria include AEC-Q101 qualification, ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/2b/3a/3b compliance, <1.0ps response time, ≤1μA reverse leakage above 10V, and DO-214AC thermal/power derating behavior across -55°C to +150°C junction range.
Technical Context
The SMAJ160CH operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, optimized for fast clamping of ESD and load-dump transients in automotive and industrial power systems. Its single-die configuration delivers precise VBR tolerance (±5% typical), low capacitance (<100pF at 0V), and stable clamping performance up to 150°C TJ.
It meets ISO 7637-2 immunity requirements for vehicle electrical systems and supports automated SMT placement with matte tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002. The device is rated for 400W peak pulse power (10/1000μs), derated linearly above 25°C ambient per Fig.2, and withstands 40A non-repetitive forward surge (8.3ms half-sine).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 160 V - Maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without conduction |
| VBR min/max | 178 V / 218 V @ 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range ensuring reliable turn-on margin above VWM |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤287 V @ 1.0 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000μs transient, defining worst-case rail overshoot |
| PPPM | 400 W (10/1000μs) - Peak surge energy handling capacity before failure; reduced to 300W above 78V VWM |
| IR @ VWM | ≤1 μA - Reverse leakage at rated stand-off, critical for low-power standby circuit integrity |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature enabling operation in under-hood automotive environments |
| Response time | <1.0 ps - Time from 0 V to VBR min, ensuring sub-nanosecond reaction to ESD events |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-214AC (SMA), surface-mount, single-ended unidirectional configuration with cathode band marking. Case meets UL 94V-0 flammability rating; terminals are matte tin-plated for J-STD-002 solderability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Input/Line side | Connected to protected line (e.g., battery feed); conducts only during reverse-biased clamping |
| Cathode | Ground/Reference side | Connected to system ground or low-impedance return; defines polarity and clamping direction |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTOL, TCT, and HAST |
| Glass passivated junction | Enhances long-term reliability and moisture resistance vs. epoxy-passivated alternatives |
| ISO 7637-2 compliance | Withstands Pulse 1 (inductive load dump), Pulse 2a/2b (switching transients), and Pulse 3a/3b (line impedance) |
| Moisture sensitivity level 1 | No floor life limitation or baking required prior to reflow; compatible with standard SMT assembly |
| Halogen-free & RoHS | Complies with IEC 61249-2-21 and EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU for green manufacturing |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Power Input Stage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 12V/24V supply inputs in BCMs against load-dump transients up to ±120V per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between battery rail and DC/DC converter input to clamp surges before regulation. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to ≤287V, preventing damage to downstream LDOs and microcontrollers rated for ≤40V absolute max. |
Use Scenario: Shields 24V DC input of programmable logic controllers from switching noise and inductive kickback in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage suppression element on main power entry, coordinated with fuse and common-mode choke. Use Value: Delivers 400W peak pulse handling with <1ps response, ensuring no latch-up or reset of fieldbus communication ICs during 10/1000μs surges. |
| On-board DC/DC Converter Input | LED Driver Power Supply |
Use Scenario: Installed at input of isolated 24V-to-5V flyback converter in automotive infotainment head units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end transient suppressor upstream of input capacitor and primary-side controller. Use Value: Maintains ≤1μA leakage at 160V VWM, minimizing quiescent current drain during vehicle sleep mode. |
Use Scenario: Safeguards constant-current LED driver ICs in commercial lighting fixtures exposed to AC line transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS across bulk capacitor to absorb 1kV/0.5J surges per IEC 61000-4-5. Use Value: Clamps to ≤287V within 1ps, preventing overvoltage stress on MOSFET gate drivers and current-sense amplifiers. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ160A | Lower VBR range (178–197V); tighter 5% tolerance vs. SMAJ160CH's 178–218V (±11%) | Better suited for precision-clamp designs where lower VC is critical; slightly reduced surge margin | Select SMAJ160A when clamping voltage budget is constrained below 260V |
| SMCJ160A | Higher power rating (1500W), larger DO-214AB (SMC) package, same VWM/VBR specs | Used where higher energy absorption is needed (e.g., alternator output lines); requires PCB area increase | Choose SMCJ160A for >400W surge requirements or legacy board designs with SMC footprint |
Compared with SMAJ160CH, SMAJ160A offers tighter VBR control but lower surge margin, while SMCJ160A provides triple the peak power in a larger package-neither is pin-compatible, but both serve overlapping automotive and industrial protection roles with distinct thermal and layout trade-offs.
Availability
SMAJ160CH is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC power inputs, on-board DC/DC converters, and LED driver protection requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 assurance.
Supply support for SMAJ160CH 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 high-reliability protection devices and power components.
The SMAJ series is part of TSC's AEC-Q101-qualified TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for robust transient suppression in automotive power distribution networks and industrial control systems operating under harsh EMI and thermal conditions.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ160CH under a 10/1000μs surge?
The SMAJ160CH clamps to a maximum of 287 V when subjected to a 1.0 A peak impulse current with a 10/1000μs waveform, as specified in the Electrical Specifications table. This value defines the upper limit of voltage seen by downstream circuitry during standardized surge events and is measured at TA = 25°C. Derating applies at elevated ambient temperatures per Fig.2 in the official datasheet.
Is SMAJ160CH suitable for bidirectional transient protection?
No, SMAJ160CH is a unidirectional TVS diode intended for DC line protection with defined anode-cathode polarity. For bidirectional applications, Taiwan Semiconductor specifies the SMAJ160CH variant with "CAH" suffix (e.g., SMAJ160CAH), which provides symmetrical clamping in both directions. Using SMAJ160CH in reverse-biased configurations risks permanent breakdown due to its single-junction design.
Does SMAJ160CH meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, SMAJ160CH is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified and certified for automotive use. It complies with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b test profiles, and its construction-including glass passivation, JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and MSL Level 1 handling-meets stringent automotive reliability requirements for under-hood and chassis-mounted electronics.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation of SMAJ160CH?
The SMAJ160CH has a steady-state power dissipation (PD) rating of 1 W at TA = 25°C, as stated in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This value reflects continuous DC power handling capability-not surge energy-and must be thermally managed via PCB copper area and ambient conditions. Derating curves (Fig.2) apply above 25°C ambient temperature.
How does the marking code "SN" relate to SMAJ160CH?
The marking code "SN" is the laser-etched identifier on the SMAJ160CH device body, confirming its identity as the 160V variant within the SMAJxH family. Per the Ordering Information table, "SN" corresponds exclusively to SMAJ160H (unidirectional, standard tolerance); the "CH" suffix denotes the AEC-Q101 qualified version with enhanced process controls, while retaining identical electrical specs and marking.
SMAJ160CH 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:
- 287V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1A
- 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)
SMAJ160CH FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ160CH through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ160CH 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 SMAJ160CH reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ160CH are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ160CH is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ160CH?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ160CH transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ160CH?
SMAJ160CH orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ160CH 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 SMAJ160CH?
For technical support, including SMAJ160CH datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ160CH requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ160CH is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ160CH 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 SMAJ160CH meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ160CH?
All SMAJ160CH units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ160CH, 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 SMAJ160CH part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ160CH:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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