Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMAJ26A-E3/5A
- Part No.:
- SMAJ26A-E3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
SMAJ26A-E3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 26VWM 42.1VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMAJ26A-E3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection on DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 26 V standoff voltage (VWM), 28.9–31.9 V breakdown range at 1 mA, clamps transients to ≤42.1 V at 9.5 A peak pulse current, and delivers 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform) in the SMA (DO-214AC) package - widely deployed in automotive body control modules and industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the SMAJ26A-E3/5A datasheet, SMAJ26A-E3/5A pinout, SMAJ26A-E3/5A application, or SMAJ26A-E3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include its 26 V working voltage compatibility with 24 V automotive systems, low 1.0 μA max reverse leakage at VWM, AEC-Q101 qualification readiness (via HE3 suffix variants), and surface-mount compatibility with automated assembly on 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS operates as a clamping device: under normal bias it presents high impedance (<1.0 μA leakage at 26 V), but triggers into low-impedance conduction when transient voltage exceeds its 28.9–31.9 V breakdown threshold. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable avalanche characteristics and fast response time (<1.0 ps), critical for suppressing ESD and load-dump spikes before sensitive downstream ICs are damaged.
The SMAJ26A-E3/5A relies on thermal dissipation via its SMA package leads (RθJL = 30 °C/W) and is rated for continuous power dissipation of 3.3 W at 50 °C ambient. Derating begins above 25 °C per Figure 2, and maximum junction temperature is limited to +150 °C - making it suitable for under-hood automotive environments when mounted per recommended pad layout.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 26 V - Maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without significant leakage; matches 24 V nominal automotive supply rails. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 28.9–31.9 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering before system-level damage occurs. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | ≤42.1 V at 9.5 A (10/1000 μs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; provides >2× margin over 24 V rail. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Sustained energy absorption capability for standard lightning/inductive-switching transients per IEC 61000-4-5. |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 9.5 A - Maximum non-repetitive surge current the device conducts while maintaining clamping performance. |
| TJmax | +150 °C - Enables operation in high-temperature automotive and industrial enclosures without derating penalties beyond datasheet curves. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Standardized surface-mount outline with cathode band marking; compatible with J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 reflow profiles (260 °C peak). |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads; polarity indicated by cathode band (cathode terminal). Mounting requires 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal for full 400 W rating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side reference node | Connected to ground or lowest potential point in protected circuit; completes clamping path during transient events. |
| Cathode | High-side surge input node | Connected to line being protected (e.g., 24 V supply rail); avalanche conduction initiates here when VAK exceeds VBR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Enables single-device protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 surges without external series impedance. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ESD), ensuring clamping stays within safe margins for 3.3 V/5 V logic interfaces. |
| Glass passivated chip junction | Provides stable, repeatable avalanche characteristics over lifetime and temperature; eliminates parameter drift common in epoxy-passivated alternatives. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Allows unlimited floor life and standard reflow without baking; reduces manufacturing overhead in high-volume automotive PCB assembly. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | Base part supports drop-in replacement with HE3/HM3 automotive-grade variants (e.g., SMAJ26AHE3_A/I), simplifying qualification for Tier 1 suppliers. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Card |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller GPIO and CAN transceiver power pins from load-dump transients (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) during battery disconnect/reconnect events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamping TVS placed between 24 V supply rail and ground, triggered within picoseconds to limit voltage excursion. Use Value: Maintains VC ≤42.1 V during 9.5 A surges, preserving integrity of 3.3 V MCU I/O and 5 V CAN PHY components without derating. |
Use Scenario: Shields 24 V dry-contact digital inputs from inductive kickback when solenoids or relays de-energize. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff protector on input front-end, blocking <26 V DC while clamping >28.9 V transients to safeguard optocoupler LED drivers. Use Value: 1.0 μA max leakage at 26 V prevents false triggering; 400 W rating handles repetitive 100 ms coil-release spikes without degradation. |
| Telecom Remote Radio Unit (RRU) | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Board |
|
Use Scenario: Guards RS-485 transceiver VCC pins against ESD and lightning-induced surges entering via outdoor cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection stage after gas discharge tube (GDT), providing low-clamp, fast-response backup clamping. Use Value: 42.1 V clamping ensures RS-485 transceivers (rated to 15 V abs max) remain within safe operating area during combined GDT+TVS coordination. |
Use Scenario: Safeguards BLDC motor controller gate drivers from voltage spikes generated during PWM switching of high-current MOSFETs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Rail clamp on 12 V logic supply feeding half-bridge drivers; absorbs commutation energy reflected from motor windings. Use Value: 30 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance enables effective heat transfer to PCB copper, sustaining reliability across 100,000+ motor start-stop cycles. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ26CA-E3/5A | Bidirectional variant; symmetric breakdown (28.9–31.9 V) in both polarities; no cathode marking. | Required only for AC-coupled or dual-polarity signal lines (e.g., USB D+/D−, RS-232); unsuitable for DC rail protection where polarity matters. | Select SMAJ26CA-E3/5A only if protecting bidirectional signals; SMAJ26A-E3/5A is mandatory for unidirectional 24 V supply rails. |
| SMBJ26A-E3/52 | Same VWM/VBR/VC specs but in larger SMB (DO-214AA) package; 600 W PPPM rating; RθJA = 90 °C/W. | Used where higher surge margin or improved thermal performance is needed (e.g., engine control units), but requires larger PCB footprint. | Choose SMBJ26A-E3/52 when 600 W surge headroom or lower thermal resistance is required; SMAJ26A-E3/5A optimizes space-constrained layouts. |
Compared with SMAJ26CA-E3/5A, the SMAJ26A-E3/5A provides polarity-aware clamping essential for DC systems, while versus SMBJ26A-E3/52, it trades 200 W pulse power for 30 % smaller board area and compatibility with dense automotive ECUs.
Availability
SMAJ26A-E3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC input protection, and telecom remote radio units requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant sourcing, and tape-and-reel delivery for SMT production.
Supply support for SMAJ26A-E3/5A 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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, AEC-Q qualification, and high-volume manufacturability.
The SMAJ series was engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments - balancing 400 W surge capability, MSL Level 1 process compatibility, and tight parametric tolerances across temperature.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SMAJ26A-E3/5A under standard test conditions?
The SMAJ26A-E3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 42.1 V when subjected to a 10/1000 μs waveform at its rated peak pulse current of 9.5 A. This value is measured per IEC 61000-4-5 and ensures protected circuits see no more than 42.1 V during surge events - critical for safeguarding 24 V system components with 48 V absolute maximum ratings. The SMAJ26A-E3/5A maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMAJ26A-E3/5A suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 qualification?
The SMAJ26A-E3/5A itself is the commercial-grade version (E3 suffix), but it shares identical die and construction with AEC-Q101 qualified variants like SMAJ26AHE3_A/I. Vishay explicitly states that HE3-suffix parts meet AEC-Q101 requirements, and the SMAJ26A-E3/5A serves as the baseline for qualification. For production automotive use, specify the HE3 variant; however, the SMAJ26A-E3/5A is fully compatible for prototyping and non-automotive industrial designs.
How does the SMAJ26A-E3/5A differ from the SMAJ26CA-E3/5A?
The SMAJ26A-E3/5A is unidirectional with a marked cathode band and blocks reverse voltage only, while the SMAJ26CA-E3/5A is bidirectional - offering symmetrical clamping in both directions with no polarity marking. Their electrical parameters (VWM, VBR, VC) are identical, but the SMAJ26CA-E3/5A is used exclusively for AC or floating signal lines (e.g., data buses), whereas the SMAJ26A-E3/5A is required for DC power rail protection where polarity must be preserved.
What is the thermal resistance and power derating behavior of the SMAJ26A-E3/5A?
The SMAJ26A-E3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W and junction-to-lead resistance (RθJL) of 30 °C/W. Its 3.3 W steady-state power dissipation is rated at TA = 50 °C; derating begins linearly above 25 °C per Figure 2 in the datasheet, reaching zero power at +150 °C. For sustained operation, PCB copper pad area must match the 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) recommendation to achieve full 400 W pulse rating.
Can the SMAJ26A-E3/5A be used in place of older P6KE27A or 1.5KE27A through-hole TVS diodes?
Yes - the SMAJ26A-E3/5A is the surface-mount functional equivalent of the through-hole P6KE27A (6.8 kW peak power) and 1.5KE27A (1500 W), but optimized for modern SMT assembly. While its 400 W PPPM is lower than those legacy parts, its superior clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.37 vs. >1.5 for older types), faster response, and tighter VBR tolerance make it more effective for precision 24 V rail protection. Layout redesign is required due to SMA vs. DO-15/DO-201 package differences.
SMAJ26A-E3/5A 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):
- 26V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 28.9V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 42.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 9.5A
- 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)
SMAJ26A-E3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMAJ26A-E3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMAJ26A-E3/5A 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 SMAJ26A-E3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMAJ26A-E3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMAJ26A-E3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMAJ26A-E3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMAJ26A-E3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMAJ26A-E3/5A?
SMAJ26A-E3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMAJ26A-E3/5A 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 SMAJ26A-E3/5A?
For technical support, including SMAJ26A-E3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMAJ26A-E3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMAJ26A-E3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMAJ26A-E3/5A 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 SMAJ26A-E3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMAJ26A-E3/5A?
All SMAJ26A-E3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMAJ26A-E3/5A, 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 SMAJ26A-E3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMAJ26A-E3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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