Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ20CA-E3/61
- Part No.:
- SMAJ20CA-E3/61
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ20CA-E3/61.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 20VWM 32.4VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:31,673
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection on signal and power lines. It features a 20 V standoff voltage (VWM), 22.2–24.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, clamps transients to ≤32.4 V at 12.3 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and delivers 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform) - ideal for safeguarding MOSFET gates, sensor interfaces, and automotive control circuits against ESD and inductive switching surges.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ20CA-E3/61 datasheet, SMAJ20CA-E3/61 pinout, SMAJ20CA-E3/61 application, or SMAJ20CA-E3/61 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low clamping voltage under surge, AEC-Q101 qualification eligibility, SMA (DO-214AC) package compatibility with automated placement, and thermal resistance (RθJA = 120 °C/W) for board-level thermal design validation.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates symmetrically in both directions due to its CA suffix designation, enabling protection of AC-coupled or differential signal paths without polarity concerns. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response (<1 ns), while the unmarked SMA package reflects its bidirectional construction - no cathode band is present.
The device complies with ANSI/IEEE C62.35 surge standards and supports repetitive surge duty cycles up to 0.01 % (300 W derated above 78 V). With a maximum junction temperature of +150 °C and MSL Level 1 rating (peak reflow 260 °C), it is qualified for high-reliability industrial and automotive environments when ordered with HE3/HM3 suffixes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 20 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines operating margin below clamping threshold |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 22.2–24.5 V at 1 mA - guaranteed conduction onset range; ensures predictable turn-on during transients |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | ≤32.4 V at IPPM = 12.3 A - peak voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 μs surge; critical for IC survivability |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W (10/1000 μs) - energy-handling capacity for single-event transients; derates to 300 W above 78 V |
| ID (Reverse Leakage) | ≤1.0 μA at VWM - negligible standby current; avoids loading sensitive analog or low-power circuits |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive or industrial enclosures |
| RθJA | 120 °C/W - thermal resistance junction-to-ambient on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads; informs PCB copper area requirements |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking - terminals are symmetrical and interchangeable.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals function identically; connects across protected line and ground (or between differential lines) without orientation constraint |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables protection of AC, differential, or floating signal lines without polarity-sensitive layout constraints |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands common IEC 61000-4-5 surge events and automotive load-dump transients without degradation |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.37) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream components - critical for 3.3 V or 5 V logic interface protection |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak reflow | Supports standard lead-free SMT assembly without moisture sensitivity concerns or baking requirements |
| AEC-Q101 qualification option | Available with HE3/HM3 suffixes for automotive applications requiring validated reliability and lifetime performance |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects LIN bus transceivers and microcontroller I/O pins from load dump and alternator ripple in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed between LIN line and chassis ground to clamp ±100 V transients within 1 ns. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in 5 V tolerant MCU I/O by limiting voltage to ≤32.4 V during 400 W surges. |
Use Scenario: Shields 4–20 mA current-loop sensor outputs from field-induced surges in factory automation PLC inputs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Connected across loop terminals (line-to-line) to absorb differential-mode transients without disrupting DC bias. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by limiting transient overshoot to <33 V while adding <1 μA leakage at 20 V operating point. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD Protection | Telecom DSL Line Surge Suppression |
Use Scenario: Installed on USB 2.0 D+/D− lines to meet IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV contact discharge requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp placed before USB transceiver to shunt ESD current away from PHY. Use Value: Clamps sub-ns ESD pulses to safe levels while introducing minimal signal distortion due to symmetrical VBR matching. |
Use Scenario: Deployed on ADSL/VDSL line cards to suppress lightning-induced surges per ITU-T K.20/K.21 standards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted line-to-ground on twisted-pair input to divert common-mode surges exceeding 1 kV. Use Value: Handles 10/1000 μs surges up to 400 W without failure, preserving line-card uptime and reducing field return rates. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20A-E3/61 | Unidirectional version; includes cathode band marking and forward voltage drop (~3.5 V at 25 A) | Requires correct polarity placement; unsuitable for AC or differential lines without external rectification | Select only when protecting DC rails with known polarity and where forward conduction must be blocked |
| SMBJ20CA-E3/61 | Same VWM/VBR/VC specs but in SMB (DO-214AA) package - 25 % larger footprint, lower RθJA (90 °C/W) | Better thermal performance for high-duty-cycle surges; requires PCB layout change due to larger pad dimensions | Choose when sustained surge repetition or higher ambient temperatures demand improved thermal dissipation |
Compared with SMAJ20CA-E3/61, the unidirectional SMAJ20A-E3/61 adds polarity dependency but enables DC-blocking capability, while the SMBJ20CA-E3/61 trades compactness for enhanced thermal margin - making SMAJ20CA-E3/61 optimal for space-constrained bidirectional protection where 120 °C/W RθJA suffices.
Availability
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor interfaces, consumer USB ports, and telecom line cards requiring stable component supply and RoHS-compliant manufacturing.
Supply support for SMAJ20CA-E3/61 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 and application-specific performance.
The SMAJ series targets board-level transient protection in harsh environments - engineered for fast response, repeatable clamping, and compatibility with automated SMT processes across automotive, industrial, and communications systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMAJ20CA-E3/61 at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMAJ20CA-E3/61 clamps to a maximum of 32.4 V when subjected to its specified peak pulse current of 12.3 A (10/1000 μs waveform). This value is measured under standardized test conditions and represents the highest voltage the protected circuit will experience during such a transient event. The clamping voltage directly determines the stress imposed on downstream components, making it a critical parameter for ensuring system-level surge immunity.
Is SMAJ20CA-E3/61 suitable for automotive applications?
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 itself is commercial-grade (RoHS-compliant E3 suffix), but Vishay offers AEC-Q101 qualified versions under ordering codes SMAJ20CAHE3_X (HE3 suffix). These variants undergo extended reliability testing including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and surge endurance - validating suitability for automotive body electronics and infotainment systems. Always verify the specific suffix matches your qualification requirements before design-in.
How does the bidirectional nature of SMAJ20CA-E3/61 affect PCB layout?
The SMAJ20CA-E3/61 has no polarity marking and identical electrical behavior in both directions, so PCB layout requires no orientation alignment - either terminal may connect to line or ground. This simplifies routing for differential signals (e.g., RS-485, CAN), AC-coupled interfaces, or floating sensors. However, thermal pad design must still follow Vishay's recommended 0.2" × 0.2" copper areas per terminal to maintain rated PPPM and RθJA performance.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current for SMAJ20CA-E3/61 at its standoff voltage?
At its 20 V standoff voltage (VWM) and TA = 25 °C, the SMAJ20CA-E3/61 exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 μA. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal power loss and avoids unintended biasing in high-impedance circuits such as precision sensor front-ends or battery-powered IoT nodes. Leakage remains well below 5 μA even at +85 °C ambient, supporting reliable operation across industrial temperature ranges.
Can SMAJ20CA-E3/61 replace SMAJ18CA-E3/61 or SMAJ22CA-E3/61 in an existing design?
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 is not a direct replacement for SMAJ18CA-E3/61 or SMAJ22CA-E3/61 due to differences in standoff and breakdown voltages: SMAJ18CA specifies VWM = 18 V (VBR = 20.0–22.1 V), while SMAJ22CA specifies VWM = 22 V (VBR = 24.4–26.9 V). Substituting alters the protection margin - using SMAJ20CA-E3/61 where SMAJ18CA was intended risks premature clamping; using it where SMAJ22CA was intended reduces surge margin. Always validate clamping behavior under actual system transients before interchange.
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 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:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ20CA-E3/61 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ20CA-E3/61 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 SMAJ20CA-E3/61 reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ20CA-E3/61 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ20CA-E3/61 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ20CA-E3/61?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ20CA-E3/61 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ20CA-E3/61?
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ20CA-E3/61 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 SMAJ20CA-E3/61?
For technical support, including SMAJ20CA-E3/61 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ20CA-E3/61 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ20CA-E3/61 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ20CA-E3/61 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 SMAJ20CA-E3/61 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ20CA-E3/61?
All SMAJ20CA-E3/61 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ20CA-E3/61, 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 SMAJ20CA-E3/61 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ20CA-E3/61:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMAJ20CA-E3/61 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 …

