Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ170A-E3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ170A-E3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ170A-E3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 170VWM 275VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,944
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMAJ170A-E3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed to protect sensitive electronics against high-energy transients. It features a 170 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 189–209 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1.0 mA test current, and clamps up to 275 V at 1.09 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under 10/1000 μs waveform - ideal for DC power rail protection in industrial motor drives.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ170A-E3/5A datasheet, SMAJ170A-E3/5A pinout, SMAJ170A-E3/5A application, or SMAJ170A-E3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin relative to system overvoltage tolerance, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), unidirectional polarity marking, and AEC-Q101 qualification eligibility via HE3 suffix variants.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamping device triggered by reverse-biased avalanche breakdown. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM) and fast response time (<1 ns), enabling suppression of ESD, lightning-induced surges, and inductive switching spikes on 170 V DC lines.
Rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) below 78 V and 300 W above - confirmed at 170 V - it delivers robust surge immunity with low incremental surge resistance and meets MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility (260 °C peak).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 170 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe DC bias margin. |
| VBR (min/max) | 189 V / 209 V at 1.0 mA - guaranteed avalanche onset range; determines worst-case turn-on threshold. |
| VC @ IPPM | 275 V at 1.09 A - clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; sets upper limit of protected circuit stress. |
| PPPM | 300 W - peak pulse power rating above 78 V; confirms energy-handling capability for 170 V systems. |
| IFSM | 40 A - 8.3 ms half-sine surge current rating (unidirectional only); supports inrush and fault-current events. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - junction-to-ambient thermal resistance on standard PCB pads; informs derating above 25 °C ambient. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature; enables operation in harsh industrial environments. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002. Cathode indicated by band marking on unidirectional devices.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., ground or return path) in unidirectional configuration. |
| Cathode | Avalanche clamping terminal | Banded end; connected to protected line (e.g., 170 V DC rail) to clamp transients toward ground. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W / 300 W peak pulse power | Validated energy absorption for 10/1000 μs transients - ensures reliability against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges on 170 V lines. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.37) | Minimizes overvoltage exposure during clamping - critical for safeguarding MOSFET gate drivers and analog front-ends. |
| Glass passivated junction | Stabilizes leakage current (<1.0 μA) and improves long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress. |
| MSL Level 1 compliance | Enables single-reflow assembly without moisture sensitivity concerns - eliminates bake requirements for production. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification option | HE3/HM3 suffix variants support automotive-grade deployment in engine control modules and battery management systems. |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Drive DC Link Protection | Telecom Power Supply Input Stage |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Suppresses switching spikes and regenerative energy surges on 170 V DC bus in servo drive inverters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between DC+ and ground to clamp positive transients only. Use Value: Limits voltage overshoot to ≤275 V during 1.09 A surge, preventing gate oxide damage to 200 V-rated IGBTs. |
Use Scenario: Protects primary-side rectifier and controller ICs from AC line surges coupled into telecom -48 V derived 170 V intermediate bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS absorbing differential-mode transients before DC-DC converter input filter. Use Value: Maintains <1.0 μA leakage at 170 V, avoiding standby power loss while delivering 300 W surge handling. |
| Automotive Battery Management System (BMS) HV Monitoring | Industrial PLC Analog Input Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Shields isolated ADC inputs measuring 170 V battery string voltage against load dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-VWM TVS on signal conditioning path upstream of isolation barrier. Use Value: Clamps within 1 ns to prevent latch-up in precision op-amps and sigma-delta modulators. |
Use Scenario: Guards 4–20 mA loop-powered sensor interfaces exposed to field wiring induced surges in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional suppressor tied between analog input and local ground reference. Use Value: Enables operation up to +150 °C ambient with RθJA = 120 °C/W - suitable for enclosed control cabinet environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ170A-M3/5A | Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant variant with identical electrical specs and package. | No functional difference; selected where halogen-free material compliance is mandated. | Choose when environmental compliance requires halogen-free construction without performance trade-offs. |
| SMAJ170AHE3_A/I | AEC-Q101 qualified, same VWM/VBR/VC, but rated for automotive temperature cycling and lifetime validation. | Required for automotive BMS, ADAS power domains, or any application requiring AEC-Q101 certification. | Select when automotive qualification is mandatory - not a drop-in replacement unless certified for target use case. |
Compared with SMAJ170A-E3/5A, the M3 variant offers identical protection performance with halogen-free materials, while the HE3 variant adds AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive deployment - neither changes pinout or layout, but HE3 requires explicit automotive validation.
Availability
SMAJ170A-E3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, telecom power supplies, battery management systems, and PLC analog input protection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for SMAJ170A-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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, power efficiency, and automotive-grade qualification.
The SMAJ series was engineered for high-voltage transient suppression in space-constrained surface-mount applications - targeting industrial, telecom, and automotive systems where precise clamping and robust surge handling are critical.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ170A-E3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ170A-E3/5A clamps to a maximum of 275 V at its specified peak pulse current of 1.09 A under the 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - critical for ensuring downstream components remain within their absolute maximum ratings.
Is SMAJ170A-E3/5A suitable for bidirectional transient protection?
No, SMAJ170A-E3/5A is a unidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "A" suffix and cathode band marking. For bidirectional protection at 170 V, the correct variant is SMAJ170CA. Using SMAJ170A-E3/5A in bidirectional applications would result in forward conduction during negative transients, potentially damaging the device or failing to suppress.
Does SMAJ170A-E3/5A meet automotive qualification standards?
The base SMAJ170A-E3/5A is commercial-grade and not AEC-Q101 qualified. However, Vishay offers the SMAJ170AHE3_A/I variant - identical in electrical performance and package - which is fully AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive applications. Always verify the full part number suffix when selecting for automotive use.
What is the thermal resistance and how does it affect PCB layout for SMAJ170A-E3/5A?
SMAJ170A-E3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on minimum recommended copper pads (0.2" x 0.2"). To maintain safe junction temperatures under sustained power dissipation, increase copper area or add thermal vias - especially important when operating near its 3.3 W steady-state power limit or during repetitive surges.
How does the 170 V stand-off voltage (VWM) relate to system voltage selection for SMAJ170A-E3/5A?
The 170 V VWM specifies the maximum continuous reverse voltage the SMAJ170A-E3/5A can withstand without entering breakdown. It must exceed the system's maximum normal operating voltage - e.g., used on a nominal 150 V DC bus where worst-case ripple reaches 165 V - ensuring no leakage-induced power loss or premature clamping during steady-state operation.
SMAJ170A-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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 170V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 189V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 275V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1.09A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 300W
- 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)
SMAJ170A-E3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ170A-E3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ170A-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 SMAJ170A-E3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ170A-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 SMAJ170A-E3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ170A-E3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ170A-E3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ170A-E3/5A?
SMAJ170A-E3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ170A-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 SMAJ170A-E3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ170A-E3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ170A-E3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ170A-E3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ170A-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 SMAJ170A-E3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ170A-E3/5A?
All SMAJ170A-E3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ170A-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 SMAJ170A-E3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ170A-E3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ170A-E3/5A Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

