Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ188CAHM3P/I
- Part No.:
- SMAJ188CAHM3P/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 188VWM 328VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in high-voltage DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 188 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 209–231 V breakdown range (VBR at 1 mA), 328 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 0.91 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 μs waveform). It is used to protect MOSFETs, IGBTs, and sensor interfaces in industrial motor drives and telecom power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ188CAHM3P/I datasheet, SMAJ188CAHM3P/I pinout, SMAJ188CAHM3P/I application, or SMAJ188CAHM3P/I equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional polarity, SMA (DO-214AC) package compatibility with automated SMT placement, AEC-Q101 qualification status, low thermal resistance (RθJL = 30 °C/W), and compliance with UL 497B surge protector classification.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 MΩ leakage at VWM), but triggers into low-impedance conduction when transients exceed VBR, diverting surge current away from downstream circuitry. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and long-term reliability under repetitive surge stress.
The device is rated for -55 °C to +150 °C operating junction temperature, with derated peak pulse power above 25 °C ambient per Fig. 2 of the datasheet. Its 120 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) assumes minimum recommended copper pad layout (0.2" × 0.2"), while RθJL = 30 °C/W enables effective heat transfer to PCB traces or heatsinking leads.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 188 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before leakage exceeds 1 μA; defines upper limit of protected rail's steady-state voltage. |
| VBR (min/max) | 209 V / 231 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown threshold range; ensures reliable triggering above nominal system voltage with margin. |
| VC @ IPPM | 328 V at 0.91 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on protected IC or transistor. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power handling capability; supports transient energy absorption without failure under standard lightning/surge test waveforms. |
| IFSM | 40 A - Non-repetitive forward surge current rating (8.3 ms half-sine); relevant for unidirectional variants only; not applicable to SMAJ188CAHM3P/I (bidirectional). |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; sets thermal design boundary for PCB layout and power derating in high-ambient environments. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount package with 2.54 mm lead pitch; compatible with J-STD-002 solderability standards and MSL Level 1 reflow profile (260 °C peak). |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads; polarity-unmarked for bidirectional operation; meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current sink (during positive surge) | One terminal of symmetrical PN junction; conducts when voltage at this terminal exceeds cathode by >VBR. |
| Cathode | Transient current sink (during negative surge) | Second terminal of symmetrical PN junction; conducts when voltage at this terminal exceeds anode by >VBR; no band marking on bidirectional devices. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Protects AC-coupled or floating signal lines without polarity constraints; eliminates need for dual-device configurations. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge events (4 kV line-earth) when properly laid out on 5 mm × 5 mm copper pads. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and surge endurance - suitable for under-hood ECUs and ADAS power stages. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients (<1 ns response), improving protection margin for sensitive gate drivers. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets JEDEC J-STD-20D MSL Level 1 and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance requirements for long-term field reliability. |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Drives | Telecom Power Supplies |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of IGBT gate driver inputs against switching-induced dv/dt transients and Miller coupling spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt clamping element placed across gate-source terminals to clamp voltage excursions below absolute maximum ratings. Use Value: Prevents false turn-on and gate oxide damage by limiting transient voltage to ≤328 V during 0.91 A surge events. |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression on +48 V DC distribution rails feeding base station RF modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated protector that remains non-conductive during normal 48 V operation but clamps lightning-induced surges up to 400 W. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by absorbing IEC 61000-4-5 compliant surges without degradation or latch-up behavior. |
| Automotive Body Control Modules | Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning |
Use Scenario: Input protection for LIN bus transceivers exposed to load-dump and jump-start transients in vehicle body electronics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp on differential LIN lines, referenced to local ground with no polarity sensitivity. Use Value: Enables AEC-Q101-compliant design without external polarity management circuitry or additional components. |
Use Scenario: Surge hardening of analog outputs (e.g., 4–20 mA loops) connected to field-mounted pressure or temperature sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-leakage (≤1 μA at 188 V) protector placed between output driver and connector to absorb ESD and inductive kickback. Use Value: Preserves signal integrity and measurement accuracy by avoiding parasitic loading during normal operation while reacting within nanoseconds to 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ188CAHE3_A/I | Same electrical specs and SMA package; RoHS-compliant but not halogen-free or AEC-Q101 qualified. | Lacks automotive qualification; suitable for commercial/industrial use where AEC-Q101 is not mandated. | Select when cost-sensitive commercial designs require identical clamping performance without automotive certification. |
| SMBJ188CAHM3 | Higher 600 W PPPM rating; SMB (DO-214AA) package with larger 3.56 mm lead pitch and higher RθJA (100 °C/W). | Better surge energy handling but requires more PCB area; less suitable for dense layouts. | Choose when system-level surge testing exceeds 400 W or when board space allows larger SMB footprint. |
Compared with SMAJ188CAHM3P/I, SMAJ188CAHE3_A/I offers identical protection performance without AEC-Q101 validation, while SMBJ188CAHM3 trades compactness for higher surge capacity - making SMAJ188CAHM3P/I optimal for space-constrained automotive and industrial applications requiring certified reliability.
Availability
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, telecom power supplies, automotive body control modules, and industrial sensor signal conditioning requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I 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, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMAJ series delivers standardized TVS protection across 5.0 V to 188 V standoff ranges in compact SMA packages, engineered for high-volume automated assembly in automotive, industrial, and communications infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ188CAHM3P/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ188CAHM3P/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 328 V at its specified peak pulse current (IPPM) of 0.91 A, measured using the standard 10/1000 μs double-exponential surge waveform. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during transient events and is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table on page 2 of the Vishay datasheet 88390. The SMAJ188CAHM3P/I maintains this clamping performance across its qualified operating temperature range.
Is SMAJ188CAHM3P/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMAJ188CAHM3P/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as indicated by the "HM3" suffix (halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified). It undergoes rigorous stress testing including temperature cycling, highly accelerated life testing (HALT), and surge endurance validation per automotive requirements. This makes SMAJ188CAHM3P/I appropriate for under-hood and chassis-mounted modules such as body control units, lighting drivers, and power distribution systems where reliability under harsh environmental conditions is mandatory.
Does SMAJ188CAHM3P/I have polarity markings on the package?
No, SMAJ188CAHM3P/I does not feature polarity markings such as a cathode band because it is a bidirectional TVS diode. Its symmetrical construction allows it to clamp transients of either polarity equally, eliminating the need for orientation during placement. This contrasts with unidirectional variants (e.g., SMAJ188A) which include a visible band denoting the cathode end. The SMA (DO-214AC) package of SMAJ188CAHM3P/I is physically identical in outline but functionally distinct due to internal junction configuration.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I?
The SMAJ188CAHM3P/I has a typical thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) of 30 °C/W, as specified in the Thermal Characteristics section of the Vishay datasheet 88390. This parameter reflects efficient heat conduction from the silicon die through the metallized leads into the PCB copper, supporting sustained operation under repetitive surge conditions. Unlike RθJA, RθJL is less dependent on board layout and provides a stable basis for thermal modeling of the SMAJ188CAHM3P/I in thermally constrained designs.
How does the 188 V stand-off voltage (VWM) of SMAJ188CAHM3P/I relate to system voltage selection?
The 188 V stand-off voltage (VWM) of SMAJ188CAHM3P/I must be selected to exceed the maximum continuous operating voltage of the protected circuit - typically by ≥10–15% - to prevent leakage or premature conduction. For example, it is appropriate for 150 V DC bus rails or 130 V AC-derived supplies after rectification. Exceeding VWM causes rapid increase in reverse leakage, so proper margin ensures SMAJ188CAHM3P/I remains fully inactive during normal operation while responding instantly to transients exceeding its 209–231 V breakdown range.
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I 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:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 188V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 209V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 328V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 910mA
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I 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 SMAJ188CAHM3P/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ188CAHM3P/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I?
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ188CAHM3P/I 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 SMAJ188CAHM3P/I?
For technical support, including SMAJ188CAHM3P/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ188CAHM3P/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ188CAHM3P/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ188CAHM3P/I 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 SMAJ188CAHM3P/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ188CAHM3P/I?
All SMAJ188CAHM3P/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ188CAHM3P/I, 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 SMAJ188CAHM3P/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ188CAHM3P/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ188CAHM3P/I Tags

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