Semtech Corporation SMBJ160CA
- Part No.:
- SMBJ160CA
- Manufacturer:
- Semtech Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AA, SMB
- Datasheet:
-
SMBJ160CA.pdf
- Description:
- 1-LINE 160V 2.3A TVS DO-214AA(SM
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,353
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Product details
Overview
SMBJ160CA from Littelfuse is a bidirectional transient voltage suppression (TVS) diode designed for high-energy surge protection of DC power lines and signal interfaces operating up to 160V DC. It delivers 400W peak pulse power (8/20μs), clamps at ≤259V under 17.1A surge current, and maintains ≤1μA reverse leakage at rated standoff voltage - deployed in industrial power supplies, telecom rectifiers, and automotive battery-line protection.
For engineers reviewing the SMBJ160CA datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its 160V working voltage, low clamping ratio (VC/VRWM ≈ 1.62), DO-214AA (SMC) package thermal robustness, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity requirements.
Technical Context
The SMBJ160CA operates as a silicon avalanche diode with symmetrical breakdown behavior in both polarities, enabling bidirectional clamping without polarity dependency. Its junction structure is optimized for fast response (<1.0 ps) to transients and stable clamping across -65°C to +150°C ambient range.
It functions as a shunt protector: during overvoltage events exceeding VRWM = 160V, it avalanches into low-impedance conduction, diverting surge current to ground while limiting voltage across protected circuitry. Its 400W peak power rating supports repetitive surges per IEC 61000-4-5 waveform conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Working Voltage (VRWM) | 160 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without clamping |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 178–197 V at IT = 1 mA - ensures reliable avalanche initiation above normal operating margin |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 259 V at IPP = 17.1 A (8/20 μs) - limits downstream voltage stress to safe levels during surge |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPK) | 400 W (8/20 μs) - enables single-device protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV line-to-ground) surges |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | ≤1 μA at VRWM = 160 V - negligible standby power loss and no measurable loading on 160V bus |
| Junction Temp Range | -65°C to +150°C - supports operation in under-hood automotive, outdoor telecom, and industrial enclosures |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-214AA (SMC) - surface-mount, molded plastic case with coplanar cathode band marking; 7.11 mm × 6.22 mm × 2.34 mm body; rated for >200°C reflow and suitable for automated placement.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked end) | Current entry during negative transients | Connected to line being protected; forms one side of bidirectional clamping path |
| Cathode (banded end) | Current entry during positive transients | Connected to ground or common reference; completes low-impedance surge return path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping symmetry | Equal VC (259 V) for ±17.1 A surges - eliminates polarity concerns in DC bus or AC-coupled signal lines |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VRWM) | 1.62 - tighter voltage margin vs. protected ICs compared to standard TVS diodes (typ. >1.8) |
| High surge repetition capability | Rated for ≥1000 surges at 50% PPK - supports long-term reliability in intermittently stressed systems like solar inverters |
| RoHS-compliant lead finish | Matte tin over nickel - compatible with Pb-free reflow profiles and prevents intermetallic growth in high-temp environments |
Applications
| Industrial Power Supply Protection | Telecom Rectifier Output Clamping |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 48V–160V DC output stage of switch-mode power supplies exposed to load-dump and inductive switching transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt TVS diode placed directly across output terminals to clamp overshoot before reaching downstream regulators or interface ICs. Use Value: Limits voltage excursion to ≤259V during 17.1A surges, preventing damage to 300V-rated MOSFETs and 200V-input PMICs. |
Use Scenario: Output of telecom -48V rectifier modules subject to lightning-induced surges on distribution bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional transient suppressor connected between rectified DC bus and chassis ground. Use Value: Withstands repeated 400W surges without degradation, maintaining ≤1μA leakage to avoid efficiency loss in always-on systems. |
| Automotive Battery-Line Surge Suppression | DC Motor Drive Bus Protection |
Use Scenario: 12V/24V/48V battery feed lines in commercial vehicles experiencing ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device mounted near ECU input connector to absorb energy before entering protection ICs. Use Value: Clamps at 259V within 1 ns, protecting 300V-rated CAN transceivers and microcontroller I/O pins from destructive overvoltage. |
Use Scenario: DC link between H-bridge driver and brushed/BLDC motor, exposed to back-EMF spikes during commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS absorbing regenerative energy spikes during rapid deceleration or stall conditions. Use Value: 400W rating handles 10 ms spikes up to 17.1A without thermal runaway, preserving gate driver integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ160A | Unidirectional; anode grounded - requires correct polarity installation and lacks negative transient clamping | Suitable only where line polarity is fixed and negative surges are absent (e.g., regulated 160V SMPS outputs) | Select SMBJ160A only if system architecture guarantees unidirectional surge exposure and layout allows strict polarity control. |
| SMCJ160CA | Same electrical specs but in larger DO-214AB (SMC) package - 7.78 mm × 6.22 mm × 2.59 mm; 1500W PPK rating | Used where higher surge margin (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 5) or board-level thermal dissipation is required | Choose SMCJ160CA when PCB space permits and design must survive ≥100A 8/20μs surges without derating. |
Compared with SMBJ160A, SMBJ160CA provides essential bidirectional protection without polarity constraints; versus SMCJ160CA, it trades peak power headroom for 15% smaller footprint and lower parasitic inductance - optimal for space-constrained 160V DC bus nodes requiring Level 4 surge immunity.
Availability
SMBJ160CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, telecom rectifiers, and automotive battery-line protection requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for SMBJ160CA 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
Littelfuse is a global leader in circuit protection, specializing in fuses, TVS diodes, varistors, and gas discharge tubes for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The SMBJ series was engineered for high-reliability DC power line protection, balancing compact size, precise clamping, and repeatable surge endurance in harsh environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SMBJ160CA under surge conditions?
The SMBJ160CA clamps at a maximum of 259 V when subjected to a 17.1 A peak pulse current with an 8/20 μs waveform. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range (-65°C to +150°C) and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during standardized surge events per IEC 61000-4-5.
Can SMBJ160CA be used in bidirectional AC signal lines?
No - SMBJ160CA is rated for DC or repetitive unidirectional surge suppression. While it clamps symmetrically, its 160 V VRWM and 259 V VC are specified for DC blocking and transient suppression, not continuous AC voltage. For AC-coupled data lines, use purpose-designed low-capacitance TVS arrays or specialized AC-rated suppressors.
How does SMBJ160CA compare to polymer-based TVS devices?
SMBJ160CA uses silicon avalanche technology, delivering nanosecond response, precise clamping, and stable parameters over temperature - unlike polymer TVS, which exhibit higher dynamic resistance, wider VC tolerance, and significant parameter drift above 85°C. SMBJ160CA is preferred where predictable voltage limiting and high surge repetition are critical.
Is SMBJ160CA compatible with lead-free reflow soldering processes?
Yes - SMBJ160CA is RoHS-compliant with matte tin-plated leads and qualified for standard Pb-free reflow profiles (peak temperature up to 260°C). Its DO-214AA package withstands JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1, eliminating pre-bake requirements for most production environments.
What is the minimum recommended PCB trace width for SMBJ160CA's cathode connection?
For reliable 17.1 A surge current handling, the cathode (banded end) trace should be ≥1.5 mm wide and ≥70 μm copper thickness (2 oz/ft²), with direct connection to a solid ground plane via ≥3 thermal vias within 5 mm. Narrower traces increase inductive voltage overshoot and reduce effective clamping performance.
SMBJ160CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Semtech Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AA, SMB
- Series:
- SMBJxxCA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 160V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 178V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 259V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 2.3A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AA (SMB)
SMBJ160CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMBJ160CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMBJ160CA 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 SMBJ160CA reliable?
The price and inventory of SMBJ160CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMBJ160CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMBJ160CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMBJ160CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMBJ160CA?
SMBJ160CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMBJ160CA 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 SMBJ160CA?
For technical support, including SMBJ160CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMBJ160CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMBJ160CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMBJ160CA 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 SMBJ160CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMBJ160CA?
All SMBJ160CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMBJ160CA, 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 SMBJ160CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMBJ160CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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