Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ20AHE3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ20AHE3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ20AHE3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 20VWM 32.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,458
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMAJ20AHE3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping inductive switching transients and ESD events on power and signal lines. It features a 20 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 22.2–24.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 32.4 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 12.3 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform).
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ20AHE3/5A datasheet, SMAJ20AHE3/5A pinout, SMAJ20AHE3/5A application, or SMAJ20AHE3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin relative to protected IC VDD, surge current handling under automotive load-dump conditions, thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W), and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive-grade reliability.
Technical Context
This TVS operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode with cathode-band polarity marking. Its junction is glass passivated for stable leakage and long-term reliability. The device responds in <1 ps to transients and maintains low incremental surge resistance during 400 W pulses.
Designed for mounting on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal, it delivers 3.3 W steady-state power dissipation at TA = 50 °C and supports 40 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine). It meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 with 260 °C reflow peak temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 20 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines upper limit of normal circuit operation. |
| VBR min/max | 22.2 V / 24.5 V at IT = 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown range ensures predictable turn-on threshold across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM | 32.4 V at 12.3 A - Clamping voltage under 10/1000 μs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 400 W (10/1000 μs) - Peak transient energy absorption capability; derates to 300 W above 78 V. |
| ID @ VWM | 1.0 μA - Reverse leakage at rated stand-off voltage; critical for low-power sensor or battery-backed circuits. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive environments. |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - Thermal resistance junction-to-ambient; informs PCB copper area requirements for thermal management. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, low-profile case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002. Cathode identified by black band on body end.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current entry (unidirectional) | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., GND or return path); conducts during forward surge events. |
| Cathode | Clamping node (unidirectional) | Connected to protected line (e.g., 24 V rail or CAN_H); avalanche conduction occurs when line exceeds VBR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics per stress test requirements. |
| 400 W peak pulse power | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 (inductive switch-off) and IEC 61000-4-5 Combination Wave surges without degradation. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.39) | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to protected ICs while maintaining robust surge margin. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Enables standard SMT reflow without moisture sensitivity concerns; no bake required prior to assembly. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable leakage current and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 24 V supply rails in engine control modules against load dump and alternator transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping high-energy positive-going surges on main power input. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤32.4 V during 12.3 A transients, preventing damage to MCU power supplies and PMICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA transmitter outputs) from field wiring ESD and inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response clamping element placed directly at connector interface. Use Value: Sub-nanosecond response and 1.0 μA leakage preserve signal integrity and minimize offset error in precision current loops. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD Protection | Telecom Line Card Surge Suppression |
Use Scenario: Secondary-level protection on VBUS line of USB 2.0 ports in set-top boxes and smart displays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS absorbing contact discharge (IEC 61000-4-2 ±8 kV) before internal protection triggers. Use Value: 20 V VWM avoids false triggering during 5.5 V VBUS tolerance; 32.4 V VC prevents latch-up in USB transceivers. |
Use Scenario: Front-end surge suppression on Ethernet PHY power pins (e.g., +3.3 V bias) in DSLAM line cards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient shunt for lightning-induced surges coupled onto board-level DC distribution. Use Value: 400 W rating handles IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV line-earth) surges without failure or parameter shift. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20A-E3/5A | No AEC-Q101 qualification; commercial-grade only. | Not suitable for automotive OEM or Tier-1 production; acceptable for industrial or consumer designs. | Select when AEC-Q101 is not mandated and cost optimization is prioritized. |
| SMAJ20AHM3/5A | Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified; identical electrical specs. | Required for automotive programs with halogen-free material compliance mandates (e.g., VW 80101). | Choose when halogen-free construction is specified in BOM or procurement policy. |
Compared with SMAJ20AHE3/5A, SMAJ20A-E3/5A lacks automotive qualification but offers identical clamping performance at lower cost, while SMAJ20AHM3/5A adds halogen-free compliance without sacrificing surge capability or thermal behavior.
Availability
SMAJ20AHE3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power systems, industrial sensor interfaces, consumer USB protection, and telecom line card surge suppression requiring stable component supply and full AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for SMAJ20AHE3/5A 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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.
The SMAJ series targets high-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure, engineered for fast clamping, low leakage, and robust surge endurance in compact surface-mount packages.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ20AHE3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ20AHE3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 32.4 V at 12.3 A peak pulse current (IPPM), measured with a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events and is confirmed in the Vishay datasheet Document Number 88390, page 2.
Is SMAJ20AHE3/5A qualified to AEC-Q101 standards?
Yes, SMAJ20AHE3/5A is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, as indicated by the "HE3" suffix in the part number and confirmed in the Vishay ordering information table (page 3) and mechanical data section. This qualification covers temperature cycling, humidity testing, and surge endurance required for automotive under-hood and chassis applications.
What is the thermal resistance junction-to-ambient for SMAJ20AHE3/5A?
The typical thermal resistance junction-to-ambient (RθJA) for SMAJ20AHE3/5A is 120 °C/W, measured with the device mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. This value guides PCB layout decisions for thermal management in high-duty-cycle surge environments.
Does SMAJ20AHE3/5A have bidirectional capability?
No, SMAJ20AHE3/5A is a unidirectional TVS diode, as indicated by the "A" suffix (vs. "CA" for bidirectional variants). It conducts only in reverse avalanche mode and requires correct polarity placement-cathode toward the protected line-with forward conduction limited to 3.5 V at 25 A per datasheet note (6).
What packaging format is used for SMAJ20AHE3/5A?
SMAJ20AHE3/5A is supplied in 13-inch diameter plastic tape and reel, with a base quantity of 7500 units per reel, denoted by the "/5A" suffix in the ordering code. This format supports high-volume automated SMT placement and is compatible with standard pick-and-place equipment.
SMAJ20AHE3/5A 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):
- 20V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 22.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 32.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 12.3A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- 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)
SMAJ20AHE3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ20AHE3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ20AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ20AHE3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ20AHE3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ20AHE3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ20AHE3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ20AHE3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ20AHE3/5A?
SMAJ20AHE3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ20AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ20AHE3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ20AHE3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ20AHE3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ20AHE3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ20AHE3/5A 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 SMAJ20AHE3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ20AHE3/5A?
All SMAJ20AHE3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ20AHE3/5A, 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 SMAJ20AHE3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ20AHE3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ20AHE3/5A 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 …

