Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMBG18CA-M3/5B
- Part No.:
- SMBG18CA-M3/5B
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-215AA, SMB Gull Wing
- Datasheet:
-
SMBG18CA-M3/5B.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 18VWM 29.2VC DO215AA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMBG18CA-M3/5B from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMBG (DO-215AA) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 18 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), <1.0 μA reverse leakage at VWM, and clamps to ≤32.4 V at 18.5 A peak pulse current - deployed on automotive sensor signal lines, industrial I/O ports, and telecom interface circuits.
For engineers reviewing the SMBG18CA-M3/5B datasheet, SMBG18CA-M3/5B pinout, SMBG18CA-M3/5B application, or SMBG18CA-M3/5B equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, halogen-free RoHS compliance, thermal resistance (RθJA = 100 °C/W), and bidirectional clamping behavior - all critical for ESD/surge co-design in automotive-grade PCB layouts.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with identical VBR, IPPM, and VC specifications in forward and reverse directions. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable avalanche characteristics and low incremental surge resistance, enabling fast response (<1 ns) to transients induced by inductive switching or lightning surges.
Rated for -55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, it meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 (260 °C peak reflow), and its DO-215AA package supports automated placement with matte tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. The M3 suffix confirms halogen-free, RoHS-compliant industrial-grade construction.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 18 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; sets safe margin below system rail or signal swing. |
| VBR (min/max) | 20.0 V / 22.1 V at 1 mA - guaranteed breakdown threshold defining turn-on consistency for surge suppression. |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤32.4 V at 18.5 A - clamped voltage during 600 W transient; determines protected circuit's maximum stress level. |
| IPPM | 18.5 A (10/1000 μs) - peak surge current capability; defines immunity to standardized lightning/inductive transients. |
| RθJA | 100 °C/W - junction-to-ambient thermal resistance; informs derating requirements on standard 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial environments. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per AEC specification. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMBG (DO-215AA), surface-mount, bidirectional device with no polarity marking - symmetrical terminal configuration.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals function identically; conducts surge current in either direction when |V| > VBR. |
| Case (exposed metal pad) | Thermal and mechanical anchor | Not electrically connected; provides thermal dissipation path to PCB copper and mechanical stability during reflow. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or differential signal lines (e.g., CAN, RS-485) without polarity concerns. |
| 600 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV surge) on 2 Ω source impedance when properly laid out on 5 mm × 5 mm pads. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates suitability for automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS sensor modules requiring long-term field reliability. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS | M3 suffix confirms compliance with JEDEC JS709E and EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU for environmentally constrained designs. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and single reflow at 260 °C peak - eliminates baking requirements and simplifies SMT line integration. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial I/O Port Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus or analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) in engine control units against load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role: Primary bidirectional clamping element placed directly at connector entry point before signal conditioning ICs. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤32.4 V, preventing damage to downstream op-amps or ADC inputs rated for 36 V absolute max. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding PLC digital input channels exposed to 24 V DC field wiring subject to inductive kickback from solenoid valves. IC Role / Device Role: Standoff-clamp TVS shunting surge energy to ground before optocoupler or microcontroller GPIO. Use Value: Withstands 18.5 A surges while maintaining <1.0 μA leakage at 18 V - avoids false triggering during normal operation. |
| Telecom Interface Protection | Consumer USB/Display Port ESD |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers in base station backhaul equipment from lightning-induced common-mode surges on twisted-pair lines. IC Role / Device Role: Bidirectional TVS on differential pair (A/B) referenced to ground, complementing common-mode chokes. Use Value: Symmetric clamping ensures equal protection on both lines, preserving signal integrity and minimizing skew during transients. |
Use Scenario: Board-level ESD protection for HDMI or USB 2.0 data lanes in set-top boxes, where space constraints favor SMBG footprint. IC Role / Device Role: Low-capacitance (<50 pF typical at 0 V) TVS placed adjacent to connector to minimize stub length. Use Value: Clamps ±15 kV contact ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) without degrading 480 Mbps signal eye diagram due to controlled capacitance. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBG18CA-E3/5B | Same electrical specs and SMBG package; uses standard RoHS-compliant molding compound (not halogen-free). | Approved for industrial but not automotive use where halogen-free mandate applies (e.g., EU automotive Tier 1 supply chain). | Select SMBG18CA-E3/5B only if halogen content is unrestricted and cost optimization is prioritized. |
| SMAJ18CA | Lower peak pulse power (400 W vs. 600 W); SMA package (DO-214AC) with higher RθJA (140 °C/W) and larger footprint. | Limited to lower-energy transients; unsuitable for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 or automotive load dump without derating. | Choose SMAJ18CA only for space-constrained non-automotive designs where 400 W rating suffices and DO-214AC layout is already established. |
Compared with SMBG18CA-E3/5B and SMAJ18CA, the SMBG18CA-M3/5B uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free compliance, and 600 W surge capacity in the compact DO-215AA outline - making it the sole choice for automotive-grade, high-reliability, and environmentally regulated deployments.
Availability
SMBG18CA-M3/5B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial programmable logic controllers, and telecom infrastructure equipment requiring stable component supply with full traceability and lifecycle management.
Supply support for SMBG18CA-M3/5B 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 SMBG series targets high-power transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom systems - engineered for AEC-Q101 compliance, low clamping voltage, and robust surge handling in compact surface-mount packages.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMBG18CA-M3/5B at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMBG18CA-M3/5B clamps to a maximum of 32.4 V at its rated peak pulse current of 18.5 A (10/1000 μs waveform). This value is measured under standardized test conditions with the device mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per the Vishay datasheet. The clamping voltage defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events, and SMBG18CA-M3/5B maintains this performance consistently across its qualified temperature range.
Is SMBG18CA-M3/5B suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMBG18CA-M3/5B is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive use, including under-hood environments. Its construction includes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant materials (M3 suffix), MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, and guaranteed operation from -55 °C to +150 °C. These attributes make SMBG18CA-M3/5B appropriate for protecting ECUs, sensor interfaces, and infotainment systems where reliability under harsh conditions is mandatory.
How does the bidirectional nature of SMBG18CA-M3/5B affect its circuit placement?
Because SMBG18CA-M3/5B is bidirectional, it has no cathode/anode marking and functions identically regardless of orientation - ideal for protecting AC-coupled or differential signal lines like CAN, RS-485, or LVDS. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, SMBG18CA-M3/5B requires no polarity alignment during placement, reducing assembly errors and simplifying layout for balanced protection schemes where transients may occur with either polarity.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current for SMBG18CA-M3/5B at its stand-off voltage?
The maximum reverse leakage current (ID) for SMBG18CA-M3/5B is 1.0 μA at its 18 V stand-off voltage (VWM), tested at 25 °C. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal power loss and avoids interference with high-impedance sensor circuits or battery-powered systems. The value remains within specification across the full operating temperature range, supporting stable performance in precision analog front-ends where SMBG18CA-M3/5B is commonly deployed.
Does SMBG18CA-M3/5B require special PCB layout considerations?
Yes - optimal performance of SMBG18CA-M3/5B requires mounting on minimum 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads per terminal to achieve the specified 600 W pulse power rating and thermal resistance (RθJA = 100 °C/W). Short, direct traces to ground or return paths are essential to minimize inductance, and the device must be placed as close as possible to the protected interface connector. These layout practices ensure SMBG18CA-M3/5B clamps transients before they propagate into sensitive ICs.
SMBG18CA-M3/5B Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-215AA, SMB Gull Wing
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 20.5A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AA (SMBG)
SMBG18CA-M3/5B FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMBG18CA-M3/5B through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMBG18CA-M3/5B 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 SMBG18CA-M3/5B reliable?
The price and inventory of SMBG18CA-M3/5B are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMBG18CA-M3/5B is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMBG18CA-M3/5B?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMBG18CA-M3/5B transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMBG18CA-M3/5B?
SMBG18CA-M3/5B orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMBG18CA-M3/5B 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 SMBG18CA-M3/5B?
For technical support, including SMBG18CA-M3/5B datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMBG18CA-M3/5B requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMBG18CA-M3/5B is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMBG18CA-M3/5B 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 SMBG18CA-M3/5B meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMBG18CA-M3/5B?
All SMBG18CA-M3/5B units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMBG18CA-M3/5B, 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 SMBG18CA-M3/5B part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMBG18CA-M3/5B:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMBG18CA-M3/5B Tags

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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Diodes Incorporated

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D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
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