Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ170A-M3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ170A-M3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ170A-M3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 170VWM 275VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMAJ170A-M3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional 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 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 (10/1000 μs waveform) - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces in industrial power supplies and automotive ECUs.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ170A-M3/5A datasheet, SMAJ170A-M3/5A pinout, SMAJ170A-M3/5A application, or SMAJ170A-M3/5A equivalent, this device delivers verified transient suppression for high-voltage DC rails where fast response (<1 ps), low incremental surge resistance, and AEC-Q101-compliant reliability are required - especially in 12 V/24 V/48 V systems with inductive switching noise.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamping protection element placed in parallel with sensitive circuit nodes. Its glass-passivated junction enables stable breakdown behavior under repetitive 10/1000 μs surges up to 400 W (derated to 300 W above 78 V), with thermal resistance of 120 °C/W (junction-to-ambient) and 30 °C/W (junction-to-lead).
The SMAJ170A-M3/5A exhibits a temperature coefficient of VBR of +0.108 %/°C and reverse leakage ≤1.0 μA at 170 V, supporting operation from –55 °C to +150 °C. Polarity is marked by a cathode band; it is not rated for bidirectional use and must be oriented with cathode toward the protected line's higher potential side.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 170 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; sets operating margin for 150–165 V DC bus protection. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 189–209 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering above normal operating voltage. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 275 V at IPPM = 1.09 A - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during full-rated transient; defines worst-case stress level. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 μs) - Sustains standardized lightning/surge energy; derates to 300 W above 78 V per spec. |
| IFSM (Surge Current) | 40 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - Withstands single-event inrush or fault currents without failure. |
| TJmax | +150 °C - Enables use in under-hood automotive or enclosed industrial enclosures without derating. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount, low-profile (2.54 mm lead pitch), RoHS/halogen-free (M3 suffix), MSL Level 1. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads; polarity indicated by cathode band on one end. Mounting requires 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal for rated power dissipation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side connection point | Connected to ground or lower-potential rail; carries surge current to reference plane during clamping. |
| Cathode | High-side connection point | Connected to protected line (e.g., 170 V DC input); avalanche conduction begins here when VAK exceeds VBR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity testing on 170 V DC inputs without external series impedance. |
| Clamping ratio VC/VBR ≈ 1.37 | Indicates tight voltage control - protects downstream MOSFETs with VDSS ≥ 300 V while minimizing overvoltage margin. |
| 0.108 %/°C VBR tempco | Ensures predictable breakdown shift across –55 °C to +150 °C; critical for engine bay or outdoor power converter designs. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified option available | HM3 suffix variants meet automotive-grade reliability requirements; M3 suffix is commercial-grade but shares identical die and package. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C reflow compatible | Enables standard SMT assembly without moisture sensitivity concerns or baking preconditioning. |
Applications
| Industrial Power Supply Input Protection | Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) Power Rail |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 170 V DC input stage of a DIN-rail mounted AC/DC converter exposed to load dump and inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping element placed across bulk capacitor input terminals. Use Value: Limits transient excursions to ≤275 V, preventing overvoltage failure of 200 V-rated primary-side MOSFETs and bridge rectifiers. |
Use Scenario: 24 V battery-fed power distribution node in BCM controlling door locks, lighting, and HVAC actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-protection device on main 24 V supply rail upstream of LDOs and microcontrollers. Use Value: Clamps ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) spikes to safe levels, avoiding reset or latch-up of 3.3 V logic subsystems. |
| Telecom DC Feeder Line Protection | Renewable Energy Inverter DC Link Monitoring |
Use Scenario: -48 V DC telecom power feed line entering remote radio head enclosure, subject to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on negative-return rail, paired with positive-rail counterpart. Use Value: Maintains <1 μA leakage at -48 V while clamping ±1 kV transients to ≤275 V, preserving signal integrity of monitoring ADCs. |
Use Scenario: Voltage sensing network on 1000 V DC link of solar string inverter, where transient coupling threatens isolation amplifiers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection on differential sense inputs referenced to mid-point of DC link. Use Value: Adds fail-safe clamping at 170 V standoff, complementing primary MOV-based protection and extending sensor lifetime. |
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 | Same electrical specs and package; RoHS-compliant but not halogen-free (E3 vs M3). | No AEC-Q101 qualification; suitable for commercial/industrial, not automotive. | Select E3 for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where halogen content is unrestricted. |
| SMAJ170AHE3_A/I | Identical die and SMA package; AEC-Q101 qualified, RoHS-compliant, 7500-piece tape-and-reel (I code). | Validated for automotive under-hood use; includes extended reliability test data and traceability. | Choose HE3 for automotive OEM or Tier-1 programs requiring PPAP documentation and qualification evidence. |
Compared with SMAJ170A-M3/5A, the E3 variant offers identical protection performance at lower material cost but lacks halogen-free compliance, while the HE3 variant adds automotive qualification and full traceability - making M3 the optimal balance of environmental compliance and commercial-grade reliability.
Availability
SMAJ170A-M3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, automotive body electronics, telecom infrastructure, and renewable energy inverters requiring stable component supply and halogen-free compliance.
Supply support for SMAJ170A-M3/5A 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMAJ series is engineered for robust transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting high-voltage DC systems where fast clamping, low leakage, and long-term stability under thermal cycling are essential design requirements.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SMAJ170A-M3/5A under rated surge conditions?
The SMAJ170A-M3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 275 V at a peak pulse current (IPPM) of 1.09 A, measured with a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is specified in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 88390, Rev. 09-Jan-2024) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during full-rated transient events. The SMAJ170A-M3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its operating temperature range.
Is the SMAJ170A-M3/5A suitable for bidirectional transient protection?
No, the SMAJ170A-M3/5A is a unidirectional TVS diode and is not rated for bidirectional operation. Its cathode band marking indicates polarity-sensitive placement - it conducts only when the anode is at lower potential than the cathode. For bidirectional protection, Vishay specifies the SMAJ170CA variant. Using SMAJ170A-M3/5A in reverse-biased configurations risks permanent damage or unreliable clamping behavior.
What does the "M3" suffix indicate in SMAJ170A-M3/5A?
The "M3" suffix in SMAJ170A-M3/5A denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, intended for commercial-grade applications. It distinguishes the part from E3 (RoHS-compliant but not halogen-free) and HM3 (AEC-Q101 qualified + halogen-free). The "5A" denotes 13-inch tape-and-reel packaging with 7500 units per reel. The SMAJ170A-M3/5A meets UL 94 V-0 flammability standards and MSL Level 1 handling requirements.
Can the SMAJ170A-M3/5A be used in automotive applications?
The SMAJ170A-M3/5A itself is not AEC-Q101 qualified; however, Vishay offers the functionally identical SMAJ170AHM3_A/I variant which carries full AEC-Q101 qualification. While the M3 suffix ensures halogen-free and RoHS compliance suitable for many automotive subsystems, OEM or Tier-1 programs requiring formal qualification must specify the HM3 or HE3 suffix versions. The SMAJ170A-M3/5A remains appropriate for non-safety-critical automotive aftermarket or industrial-adjacent modules.
What is the thermal resistance and power derating behavior of the SMAJ170A-M3/5A?
The SMAJ170A-M3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W and junction-to-lead (RθJL) of 30 °C/W. Its peak pulse power rating of 400 W (10/1000 μs) is derated above TA = 25 °C per Figure 2 in the datasheet, dropping to 300 W above 78 V and further decreasing linearly with ambient temperature. Continuous power dissipation (PD) is rated at 3.3 W on infinite heatsink at 50 °C. The SMAJ170A-M3/5A supports operation from –55 °C to +150 °C.
SMAJ170A-M3/5A 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-M3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ170A-M3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ170A-M3/5A 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-M3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ170A-M3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ170A-M3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ170A-M3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ170A-M3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ170A-M3/5A?
SMAJ170A-M3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ170A-M3/5A 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-M3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ170A-M3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ170A-M3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ170A-M3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ170A-M3/5A 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-M3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ170A-M3/5A?
All SMAJ170A-M3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ170A-M3/5A, 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-M3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ170A-M3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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