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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ16CA-E3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ16CA-E3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16VWM 26VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,001
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Product details
Overview
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection on signal and power lines. It features a 16 V standoff voltage (VWM), 17.8–19.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 26.0 V clamping voltage (VC) at 15.4 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O modules, and telecom line protection.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ16CA-E3/5A datasheet, SMAJ16CA-E3/5A pinout, SMAJ16CA-E3/5A application, or SMAJ16CA-E3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping symmetry, low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.46), AEC-Q101 qualification eligibility (via HE3 suffix variants), and compatibility with automated SMT assembly on DO-214AC footprints.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar during transients: when reverse voltage exceeds VBR, it avalanches into low-impedance conduction to shunt surge energy away from downstream ICs. Its bidirectional structure enables symmetric clamping in both polarities without polarity sensitivity - critical for AC-coupled or floating signal lines.
Thermal design relies on RθJA = 120 °C/W (typ.) and RθJL = 30 °C/W (typ.), requiring minimum 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads per terminal for rated 400 W pulse handling. The 150 °C max junction temperature and -55 °C to +150 °C operating range support under-hood automotive and industrial ambient conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 16 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 μA; defines safe operating margin below clamping onset. |
| VBR (min/max) | 17.8 V / 19.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche initiation range; ensures predictable turn-on across process variation and temperature. |
| VC @ IPPM | 26.0 V at 15.4 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; limits stress on protected MOSFET gate or MCU I/O pin. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power capability with 10/1000 μs waveform; supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge immunity when properly laid out. |
| IFSM | 40 A - Non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine); enables protection against accidental DC overvoltage events. |
| TJ Range | -55 °C to +150 °C - Full operational and storage temperature range; validated for engine control unit (ECU) and motor drive environments. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Standardized 2-pin surface-mount outline with 5.28 mm × 4.50 mm body; compatible with IPC-7351B footprint "SMA". |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads; meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating and J-STD-002/JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. Bidirectional construction means no polarity marking - both terminals are functionally identical.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient current path | Either terminal serves as surge current entry/exit point; bidirectional clamping eliminates orientation constraints during placement. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Enables compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity up to 4 kV in properly designed PCB layouts with 5 mm² copper pads. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.46) | Minimizes voltage overshoot during clamping - critical for protecting 3.3 V or 5 V logic interfaces without additional series impedance. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification option (HE3/HM3 suffix) | Validated reliability for automotive applications including ADAS camera links and body control modules - not inherent to E3/5A but available in same family. |
| MSL Level 1 (JEDEC J-STD-020) | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow at peak 260 °C - eliminates bake requirements and simplifies high-volume SMT manufacturing. |
| Glass passivated junction | Provides stable leakage performance (<1.0 μA at VWM) and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC Analog Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and Hall-effect sensor outputs from load dump and inductive switching spikes in 12 V vehicle systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed directly at connector entry point to limit transient excursions to <26 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in 3.3 V microcontrollers interfacing with sensors - verified per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b test profiles. |
Use Scenario: Shielding 4–20 mA current loop inputs in programmable logic controllers from field wiring surges and ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (≈200 pF at 0 V) TVS placed across input terminals to absorb ±1 kV EFT bursts without distorting analog signal integrity. Use Value: Maintains <0.1% full-scale error in 16-bit ADC measurements while surviving repeated 5 kHz EFT bursts per IEC 61000-4-4. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer USB Port Protection |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding Ethernet PHY differential pairs and PoE injectors against lightning-induced common-mode surges on outdoor cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Paired SMAJ16CA-E3/5A devices (one per line) provide symmetrical clamping on data lines referenced to chassis ground. Use Value: Achieves >3 kV common-mode surge withstand (IEC 61000-4-5) without degrading 100BASE-TX signal rise time or return loss. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary overvoltage protection on VBUS and D+/D- lines of USB 2.0 ports in smart home hubs and set-top boxes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response (sub-nanosecond) clamp limiting VBUS to ≤26 V during hot-plug insertion transients or adapter fault conditions. Use Value: Prevents permanent damage to USB controller ICs rated for only 5.5 V absolute maximum - complements internal silicon diode protection. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ16A-E3/5A | Unidirectional variant; cathode band marked; VF = 3.5 V at 25 A forward current. | Required where polarity-aware DC bias exists (e.g., single-supply rail clamping); unsuitable for AC or floating lines. | Select SMAJ16A-E3/5A only if circuit topology guarantees unidirectional surge direction and polarity alignment. |
| SMBJ16CA-E3/52 | Same VWM/VC specs but in SMB (DO-214AA) package; 400 W rating derated to 300 W above 78 V. | Larger 7.2 mm × 6.2 mm footprint; higher thermal mass improves repetitive surge handling but consumes more board area. | Choose SMBJ16CA-E3/52 when layout allows larger pad area and enhanced thermal dissipation is prioritized over space-constrained designs. |
Compared with SMAJ16CA-E3/5A, the unidirectional SMAJ16A-E3/5A requires strict polarity awareness and offers forward conduction capability, while the SMBJ16CA-E3/52 trades compactness for improved thermal robustness - making SMAJ16CA-E3/5A optimal for space-limited bidirectional protection with standardized SMA footprint reuse.
Availability
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC analog inputs, and telecom line protection requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant commercial-grade sourcing, and tape-and-reel delivery for SMT production.
Supply support for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A 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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, power efficiency, and automotive-grade validation.
The SMAJ series targets cost-sensitive, high-volume transient protection needs in automotive, industrial, and communications equipment - engineered for automated assembly, MSL Level 1 reflow, and consistent clamping performance across temperature and lot-to-lot variation.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ16CA-E3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ16CA-E3/5A exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 26.0 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 15.4 A using the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 1 in Vishay document 88390 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - critical for ensuring compatibility with 3.3 V or 5 V logic rails.
Is SMAJ16CA-E3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A itself is a commercial-grade part (E3 suffix), but the SMAJ16CA family supports AEC-Q101 qualification via the HE3 or HM3 suffix variants. While SMAJ16CA-E3/5A is widely used in automotive subsystems such as body electronics and infotainment due to its robust 150 °C junction rating and bidirectional clamping, formal automotive qualification requires ordering SMAJ16CAHE3_X - not SMAJ16CA-E3/5A.
How does the bidirectional design of SMAJ16CA-E3/5A affect PCB layout?
The bidirectional design of SMAJ16CA-E3/5A eliminates polarity marking and orientation constraints - both terminals are electrically identical, allowing placement in either direction on the PCB. This simplifies automated pick-and-place programming and reduces risk of assembly errors. Layout still requires symmetric 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads per terminal to sustain the rated 400 W pulse power per Vishay's thermal guidelines.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A?
The SMAJ16CA-E3/5A has a maximum steady-state power dissipation (PD) of 3.3 W when mounted on an infinite heatsink at ambient temperature (TA) = 50 °C. This rating assumes ideal thermal conduction and is significantly lower than its 400 W peak pulse rating - emphasizing that SMAJ16CA-E3/5A is intended for transient suppression, not continuous power handling.
Does SMAJ16CA-E3/5A meet lead-free and RoHS requirements?
Yes, SMAJ16CA-E3/5A is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, as indicated by the "E3" suffix per Vishay's ordering nomenclature. It uses matte tin-plated leads, complies with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards, and meets JEDEC MSL Level 1 for moisture sensitivity - enabling direct use in lead-free reflow processes peaking at 260 °C.
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 16V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.8V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 15.4A
- 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)
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A 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 SMAJ16CA-E3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ16CA-E3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A?
SMAJ16CA-E3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ16CA-E3/5A 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 SMAJ16CA-E3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ16CA-E3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ16CA-E3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ16CA-E3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ16CA-E3/5A 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 SMAJ16CA-E3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ16CA-E3/5A?
All SMAJ16CA-E3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ16CA-E3/5A, 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 SMAJ16CA-E3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ16CA-E3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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