Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ170AHE3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ170AHE3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ170AHE3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 170VWM 275VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMAJ170AHE3/5A 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 voltage transients induced by inductive load switching and lightning surges. It features a 170 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 189–209 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 275 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 1.09 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform - used for safeguarding MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in industrial and automotive systems.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ170AHE3/5A datasheet, SMAJ170AHE3/5A pinout, SMAJ170AHE3/5A application, or SMAJ170AHE3/5A equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance data (RθJA = 120 °C/W), polarity marking convention, and real-world protection use cases - all critical for ESD/surge design validation and BOM selection.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 μA leakage at 170 V), but triggers into low-impedance conduction when transient voltage exceeds its breakdown threshold. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and fast response time (<1 ns), enabling effective suppression of fast-rising transients on power rails and I/O lines.
The device is rated for 40 A peak forward surge current (IFSM, 8.3 ms half-sine), supports continuous power dissipation of 3.3 W at 50 °C ambient, and maintains operation across -55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range - making it suitable for under-hood automotive and high-reliability industrial environments where thermal derating and long-term stability are essential.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 170 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe operating margin for 12 V–48 V system rails. |
| VBR (min/max) | 189–209 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown range ensures reliable triggering above nominal rail voltage while avoiding false trips. |
| VC @ IPPM | 275 V at 1.09 A - Clamping voltage limits downstream component stress during 10/1000 μs surge events. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity per JEDEC standard waveform; sufficient for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 kV) surge immunity. |
| IFSM | 40 A - Single half-sine surge current rating enables robust protection against motor-switching transients. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature allows deployment in high-ambient environments without thermal shutdown. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - Thermal resistance value informs PCB copper pad sizing (0.2" × 0.2") required for safe power dissipation. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Polarity marked by cathode band on one end; anode and cathode terminals defined per unidirectional configuration.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | High-side connection point for reverse-biased clamping | Connected to protected line (e.g., 170 V rail); conducts surge current to ground when overvoltage occurs. |
| Anode | Low-side reference terminal | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return path; completes clamping loop during transient event. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and surge endurance - required for engine control, ADAS, and body electronics. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR performance over lifetime and prevents parameter drift due to moisture or contamination ingress. |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles without preconditioning - eliminates manufacturing delays and moisture sensitivity handling. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Provides margin for repetitive surge events in industrial motor drives and power supply input stages without degradation. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast transients, improving protection effectiveness for 3.3 V/5 V logic interfaces downstream. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Guarding |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V/24 V battery-fed ECUs from load dump and alternator ripple transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional shunt TVS placed between power rail and chassis ground to clamp spikes up to 120 V. Use Value: Limits voltage seen by MCU power pins to ≤275 V during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a events, preventing latch-up or permanent damage. |
Use Scenario: Shielding analog output lines of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation PLC modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS connected across differential signal pair to absorb ESD and cable discharge events. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity below 1 pF junction capacitance while clamping ±8 kV contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2. |
| Telecom DC Power Input Stage | Consumer Device USB Port Surge Suppression |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding PoE-powered network switches against induced surges on 48 V DC input lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS on upstream side of DC-DC converter input filter. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W surge energy without failure, preserving upstream rectifier and controller ICs during lightning-induced coupling. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary-level surge protection to USB Type-C VBUS line in portable docking stations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed between connector and USB PD controller to limit fault voltage. Use Value: Enables compliance with UL 62368-1 surge withstand requirements while maintaining <100 ns response to fast transients. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ170A-E3/5A | No AEC-Q101 qualification; commercial grade only; identical electrical specs and package. | Limited to non-automotive industrial or consumer use where automotive reliability testing is not mandated. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs qualification requirements and environmental stress testing is not required. |
| SMAJ170AHM3/5A | Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant variant with same AEC-Q101 qualification and thermal performance. | Required for EU automotive programs mandating halogen-free materials in final assemblies. | Choose for Tier 1 automotive supply chains requiring full material compliance documentation and green manufacturing alignment. |
Compared with SMAJ170AHE3/5A, the SMAJ170A-E3/5A offers identical surge protection capability without automotive qualification overhead, while SMAJ170AHM3/5A adds halogen-free compliance - enabling direct substitution in AEC-Q101 designs where material restrictions apply, but not in cost-driven commercial applications lacking qualification mandates.
Availability
SMAJ170AHE3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU protection, industrial sensor interface hardening, and telecom DC input surge suppression requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SMAJ170AHE3/5A 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, precision, and application-specific optimization.
The SMAJ series was developed for high-energy transient suppression in space-constrained surface-mount applications - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom systems needing AEC-Q101-qualified, low-profile TVS solutions with repeatable clamping behavior.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ170AHE3/5A and how does it relate to system protection?
The SMAJ170AHE3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 275 V at 1.09 A peak pulse current (10/1000 μs waveform). This value defines the highest voltage imposed on downstream circuitry during a surge event - ensuring that connected ICs, MOSFETs, or sensors experience no more than 275 V, well below typical breakdown thresholds. The SMAJ170AHE3/5A achieves this via low dynamic impedance and fast turn-on, making it effective for protecting 170 V-rated systems against ISO 7637-2 or IEC 61000-4-5 surges.
Is SMAJ170AHE3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMAJ170AHE3/5A is AEC-Q101 qualified, meaning it has passed rigorous stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and surge endurance - specifically validated for under-hood and chassis-mounted automotive electronics. Its -55 °C to +150 °C operating range, MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, and stable VBR performance make SMAJ170AHE3/5A appropriate for engine control units, ADAS camera modules, and body control modules requiring certified surge protection.
How does the SMAJ170AHE3/5A differ from bidirectional variants like SMAJ170CA?
The SMAJ170AHE3/5A is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity identification, while SMAJ170CA is bidirectional with no polarity marking and symmetrical clamping in both directions. SMAJ170AHE3/5A is intended for DC rail protection where polarity is fixed (e.g., 170 V positive supply), whereas SMAJ170CA suits AC-coupled or floating signal lines. Their VWM, VBR, and VC values differ accordingly - SMAJ170AHE3/5A has 170 V VWM, while SMAJ170CA specifies 170 V symmetric standoff.
What is the thermal resistance of SMAJ170AHE3/5A and how should it guide PCB layout?
The SMAJ170AHE3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. To maintain safe junction temperatures under 3.3 W continuous dissipation, designers must allocate adequate copper area and consider airflow or adjacent heat sources. Reducing RθJA via larger pads or internal planes directly lowers steady-state temperature rise - critical for reliability in sealed enclosures or high-ambient environments.
Does SMAJ170AHE3/5A meet RoHS and halogen-free requirements?
SMAJ170AHE3/5A is RoHS-compliant per EU Directive 2011/65/EU and carries the "HE3" suffix indicating AEC-Q101 qualification and RoHS compliance. However, it is not halogen-free - that designation applies to the "HM3" variant (e.g., SMAJ170AHM3/5A). For applications requiring halogen-free materials (e.g., certain EU automotive Tier 1 programs), SMAJ170AHM3/5A must be selected instead of SMAJ170AHE3/5A.
SMAJ170AHE3/5A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- 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:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMAJ170AHE3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ170AHE3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ170AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ170AHE3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ170AHE3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ170AHE3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ170AHE3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ170AHE3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ170AHE3/5A?
SMAJ170AHE3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ170AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ170AHE3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ170AHE3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ170AHE3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ170AHE3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ170AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ170AHE3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ170AHE3/5A?
All SMAJ170AHE3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ170AHE3/5A, 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 SMAJ170AHE3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ170AHE3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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