Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- 3KW, 12V 5%,BIDIR,SMC TVS
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,961
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Product details
Overview
SMC3K12CAHM3_A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for high-energy surge protection with 3000 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage, and 19.9 V clamping voltage at 1245 A peak pulse current. It protects automotive sensor signal lines, MOSFET gates, and IC power rails against ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2 transients.
For engineers reviewing the SMC3K12CAHM3_A datasheet, SMC3K12CAHM3_A pinout, SMC3K12CAHM3_A application, or SMC3K12CAHM3_A equivalent, this device delivers AEC-Q101 qualification, 30 kV ESD immunity per IEC 61000-4-2, UL 497B safety recognition, and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity - critical for automotive-grade board-level transient suppression.
Technical Context
This TVS operates bidirectionally to clamp both positive and negative voltage transients without polarity marking. Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time enable effective suppression of 8/20 μs lightning surges (up to 30 kW) and 10/1000 μs load-dump pulses.
The device features a junction temperature range of –55 °C to +175 °C, thermal resistance RthJM of 4.0 °C/W, and meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance - confirming suitability for under-hood automotive environments where thermal cycling and mechanical reliability are critical.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 13.3–14.7 V at 1 mA test current - defines minimum clamping threshold before avalanche conduction begins |
| Stand-off Voltage VWM | 12 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage without significant leakage |
| Clamping Voltage VC | 19.9 V at 1245 A (10/1000 μs) - actual voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge |
| Peak Pulse Power | 3000 W (10/1000 μs) - energy-handling capability sufficient for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 and Pulse 2a |
| ESD Withstand | ±30 kV contact & air discharge (IEC 61000-4-2) - exceeds automotive ESD immunity requirements |
| Junction Temperature Range | –55 °C to +175 °C - supports operation in engine control units and transmission modules |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB), halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified - standard SMT footprint with automotive reliability validation |
Pinout & Package
SMC3K12CAHM3_A uses the industry-standard SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package: cathode band not marked on bidirectional variants; matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability and JESD22-B102; MSL Level 1 rated for reflow up to 260 °C peak.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (unmarked) | Transient conduction path (bidirectional) | No polarity marking - terminals function identically for ± voltage clamping; mounted across protected line and ground |
| Anode (unmarked) | Transient conduction path (bidirectional) | Identical terminal behavior to cathode; device conducts symmetrically during positive or negative overvoltage events |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive electronics including powertrain and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| UL 497B recognition (E136766) | Confirms compliance with safety standards for telecom and industrial signal-line protection |
| 30 kW surge rating (8/20 μs) | Enables robust protection against lightning-induced surges in outdoor telecom equipment |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.41) | Minimizes stress on downstream components during transient events |
| Junction capacitance < 1000 pF at 0 V | Preserves signal integrity on high-speed sensor lines (e.g., CAN, LIN, analog sensors) |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial Motor Drive Inputs |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure, temperature, and position sensors in 12 V vehicle systems exposed to ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 (–150 V, 2 ms) and Pulse 2a (112 V, 50 μs). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed between sensor output and microcontroller ADC input. Use Value: Limits voltage excursion to ≤19.9 V during transients, preventing ADC saturation and input-stage damage while maintaining signal fidelity below 12 V normal operation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding gate-drive inputs of IGBTs/MOSFETs in variable-frequency drives subjected to inductive switching spikes and 8/20 μs lightning surges per IEC 61000-4-5. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting shunt suppressor across gate-to-source terminals. Use Value: Clamps gate voltage to ≤19.9 V within nanoseconds, avoiding unintended turn-on and ensuring reliable switching under EMI-heavy factory floor conditions. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Power Supply Input Stage |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485/RS-232 transceivers in base station backhaul equipment from ESD and induced surges per IEC 61000-4-2 and IEC 61000-4-5. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient suppressor on differential data lines referenced to chassis ground. Use Value: Withstands ±30 kV contact ESD and limits clamped voltage to 19.9 V, preserving transceiver functionality without latch-up or parametric shift. |
Use Scenario: Secondary surge protection on 12 V DC input rails of embedded controllers after primary MOV-based AC/DC stage, targeting residual transients per ISO 16750-2 Pulse b (load dump). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-clamp TVS in series with upstream filtering, placed directly at regulator input. Use Value: Absorbs up to 3000 W for 1 ms, limiting rail voltage to 19.9 V and preventing LDO dropout or buck converter shutdown during battery disconnection events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12CA | Lower peak pulse power (400 W), SMA package (smaller footprint, higher thermal resistance) | Suitable for lower-energy consumer electronics; insufficient for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 in automotive | Select only for cost-sensitive, non-automotive designs with <500 W surge exposure |
| 1.5KE12CA | Higher power (1500 W), axial leaded DO-201 package - no SMT compatibility | Requires through-hole assembly; unsuitable for automated SMT production or space-constrained PCBs | Choose only when legacy through-hole design or manual repair is required |
Compared with SMAJ12CA and 1.5KE12CA, SMC3K12CAHM3_A uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, 3000 W capability, and SMC SMT packaging - enabling automotive-grade surge protection without layout redesign or thermal derating penalties.
Availability
SMC3K12CAHM3_A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial motor drive gate protection, and telecom line interface circuits requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for SMC3K12CAHM3_A 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, and protection devices with emphasis on automotive, industrial, and computing applications.
The SMC3KxxCAHM3_A series was engineered specifically for AEC-Q101-compliant transient suppression in harsh automotive environments - delivering high-power clamping in standardized SMT packages with validated long-term reliability.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMC3K12CAHM3_A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMC3K12CAHM3_A clamps to 19.9 V at its specified peak pulse current of 1245 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures downstream ICs see no more than 19.9 V during surge events - critical for protecting 3.3 V or 5 V logic interfaces connected via level-shifting or buffering circuits. The clamping voltage remains stable across temperature and lifetime when operated within datasheet limits.
Is SMC3K12CAHM3_A suitable for use in automotive powertrain applications?
Yes, SMC3K12CAHM3_A is AEC-Q101 qualified and tested to ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, Pulse 2a, Pulse 3a, Pulse 3b and ISO 16750-2 Pulse b - making it appropriate for engine control units, transmission control modules, and battery management systems. Its –55 °C to +175 °C operating range, MSL Level 1 rating, and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance confirm suitability for under-hood deployment where thermal cycling and vibration endurance are mandatory.
How does the bidirectional nature of SMC3K12CAHM3_A affect PCB layout?
The SMC3K12CAHM3_A has no polarity marking and functions identically in either orientation, simplifying PCB layout by eliminating orientation checks during placement. Engineers may mount it across any protected line and ground without regard to anode/cathode direction - reducing assembly errors and enabling flexible routing in tight spaces such as sensor connector interfaces or multi-layer automotive ECUs.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current of SMC3K12CAHM3_A at its stand-off voltage?
The SMC3K12CAHM3_A exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current of 5.0 μA at its 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM) and 25 °C ambient temperature. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss in always-on automotive modules and avoids false triggering in high-impedance sensor bias networks - supporting accurate measurements in precision analog front-ends without additional compensation.
Does SMC3K12CAHM3_A require derating at elevated ambient temperatures?
Yes, SMC3K12CAHM3_A requires derating above 25 °C ambient per its peak pulse power derating curve: at 85 °C, its 3000 W rating reduces to approximately 2100 W. This is due to thermal resistance RthJA = 90 °C/W and junction temperature limit of 175 °C. Designers must verify worst-case board temperature rise and adjust surge margin accordingly - especially in enclosed engine bay enclosures or stacked industrial drives.
SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 151A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 3000W (3kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMC)
SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I 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 SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I?
SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I 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 SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I 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 SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I?
All SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I, 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 SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC3K12CAHM3_A/I Tags

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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