Diodes Incorporated SMAJ170CAQ-13-F

Overview

SMAJ170CAQ-13-F from Diodes Incorporated is a bi-directional automotive transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA package, rated for 400W peak pulse power, 170V reverse standoff voltage (VRWM), and 275V max clamping voltage (VC) at 1.4A IPP. It provides ISO10605-compliant ESD protection (±30kV air/contact) and ISO7637-2 surge immunity (Pulse 1/2a/3a/3b) for 12V/24V automotive power rails.

For engineers reviewing the SMAJ170CAQ-13-F datasheet, SMAJ170CAQ-13-F pinout, SMAJ170CAQ-13-F application, or SMAJ170CAQ-13-F equivalent, this device serves as a critical front-end clamp for CAN/LIN bus interfaces, body control modules, and infotainment power inputs where AEC-Q101 qualification, low leakage (<0.5µA @ VRWM), and precise clamping under 10×1000µs transients are required.

Technical Context

This bi-directional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities with identical clamping behavior in forward and reverse conduction, enabling robust protection of AC-coupled or differential signal lines without polarity constraints. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics over temperature (–55°C to +175°C TJ) and long-term reliability in harsh automotive environments.

The device meets IATF 16949 manufacturing standards and supports PPAP documentation. Its 1.0W steady-state power dissipation at TL = +75°C and 40A IFSM rating allow integration into high-surge-risk locations such as alternator output lines or battery feed-through points without thermal runaway concerns.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SMA (Surface-Mount Axial), molded plastic UL 94V-0, 0.064g mass, cathode band omitted (bi-directional).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bi-directional automotive TVS applications.

Compared with SMAJ170A-Q, SMAJ170CAQ-13-F adds AEC-Q101 qualification and PPAP readiness for OEM programs; versus SMCJ170CA, it trades peak power for compact SMA footprint-ideal for space-constrained ADAS modules where ISO7637-2 Pulse 1–3 compliance is sufficient.

Availability

SMAJ170CAQ-13-F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, infotainment systems, and ADAS camera power supplies requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for SMAJ170CAQ-13-F 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, specializing in high-reliability components for automotive, industrial, and computing markets.

This part belongs to Diodes' AEC-Q101-qualified SMAJ automotive TVS family, engineered specifically for ISO10605/ISO7637-2 compliance in 12V/24V vehicle electrical architectures.

FAQ

What is the maximum clamping voltage of SMAJ170CAQ-13-F and under what test condition?

The maximum clamping voltage is 275V, measured at a peak pulse current (IPP) of 1.4A using the standardized 10×1000µs waveform defined in IEC 61000-4-5 and ISO7637-2. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range (–55°C to +175°C) and represents worst-case voltage seen by downstream circuitry during surge events.

Is SMAJ170CAQ-13-F unidirectional or bidirectional, and how does that affect its use in CAN bus protection?

SMAJ170CAQ-13-F is bi-directional, indicated by the "C" suffix and absence of cathode band marking. In CAN bus protection, this allows direct placement across the differential pair (CAN_H to CAN_L) without polarity concerns, providing symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients-critical for preserving signal timing and common-mode rejection during ESD events.

Does SMAJ170CAQ-13-F require special handling or moisture baking before SMT assembly?

No. The device has J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1, meaning it may be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions and placed directly into reflow without pre-baking. Its matte tin lead finish ensures compatibility with standard Pb-free solder profiles (peak 260°C), and the SMA package withstands typical SMT thermal cycling without delamination.

How does the 400W peak pulse power rating translate to real-world surge immunity?

The 400W rating corresponds to the device's ability to absorb transient energy from standardized waveforms: ISO7637-2 Pulse 1 (–100V, 2Ω source), Pulse 2a (+50V), and Pulse 3a/b (±150V/±100V). At 170V VRWM, it delivers 1.4A IPP into a 275V clamped load-sufficient to protect most 12V/24V automotive subsystems without secondary crowbar circuits.