Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- 3KW, 18V 5%,BIDIR,SMC TVS
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,540
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Product details
Overview
SMC3K18CAHM3_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), 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage, and 29.2 V clamping voltage at 763 A peak pulse current. It protects MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in automotive power systems against ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2 transients.
For engineers reviewing the SMC3K18CAHM3_A datasheet, SMC3K18CAHM3_A pinout, SMC3K18CAHM3_A application, or SMC3K18CAHM3_A equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, 175 °C max junction temperature, bidirectional clamping behavior, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-2 ESD (30 kV contact/air), making it suitable for automotive-grade ECU and body control module designs.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector triggered by transient overvoltage events exceeding its reverse standoff voltage (VWM = 18 V). Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time enable effective suppression of 10/1000 μs and 8/20 μs waveforms without latch-up or degradation under repeated stress.
The device features symmetric bidirectional conduction, zero polarity marking, and thermal performance validated per JEDEC 51-2A (RthJA = 90 °C/W) and JEDEC 51-14 (RthJM = 4.0 °C/W), supporting reliable operation in high-temperature engine bay environments up to 175 °C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 20.0–22.1 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise turn-on threshold for transient clamping |
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 18 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 2.0 μA |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 29.2 V at 763 A (10/1000 μs) - limits downstream voltage stress during worst-case surge |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 3000 W (10/1000 μs) - supports robust protection against load dump and inductive switching surges |
| ESD Rating | ±30 kV per IEC 61000-4-2 (contact/air) - eliminates need for additional ESD front-end stages |
| Operating Temperature | −55 °C to +175 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive locations without derating |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - certified for automotive electronic control units per stress test requirements |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Bidirectional construction means no polarity marking; both terminals function identically as cathode/anode depending on transient polarity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (unmarked) | Transient current sink path during positive overvoltage | Provides low-impedance discharge path to ground when anode voltage exceeds cathode by >VBR |
| Anode (unmarked) | Transient current sink path during negative overvoltage | Provides symmetrical low-impedance discharge path when cathode voltage exceeds anode by >VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or differential signal lines without polarity concerns |
| 30 kW capability (8/20 μs) | Supports high-current lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 immunity testing |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow at 260 °C peak without moisture-related popcorning |
| UL 497B recognition (E136766) | Validates safety compliance for telecom and industrial interface port protection |
| Junction capacitance ≤ 300 pF | Minimizes signal distortion on data lines up to 10 Mbps (e.g., LIN, CAN FD stubs) |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of 12 V supply rail and sensor inputs against ISO 16750-2 Pulse b load dump (101 V, 400 ms). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt TVS placed directly at connector entry point to clamp transients before reaching MCU power pins and analog front-end. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic supplies and ADC reference circuits during battery disconnection events. |
Use Scenario: Guarding 24 V DC digital input channels against inductive kickback from solenoid/relay coils. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response voltage clamp across optocoupler input terminals to absorb 600 V/100 A switching spikes. Use Value: Eliminates false triggering and extends optocoupler lifetime by limiting reverse voltage stress to <30 V. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Telecom Base Station Power Interface |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding LIN bus transceivers and door lock actuator drivers from ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 (−150 V, 2 ms) and Pulse 3b (+150 V, 150 ns). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS mounted adjacent to connector to suppress coupled transients on shared power/signal harnesses. Use Value: Maintains LIN communication integrity by holding bus voltage within ±30 V window during repetitive surge exposure. |
Use Scenario: Primary surge protection on −48 V telecom power feed entering remote radio head enclosure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-power shunt element absorbing 8/20 μs lightning surges before upstream DC/DC converter input stage. Use Value: Reduces required MOV size and enables smaller, more reliable secondary protection staging with lower let-through voltage. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18CA | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (smaller footprint, higher RthJA = 110 °C/W) | Limited to low-energy consumer electronics; insufficient for automotive load dump | Select only for space-constrained non-automotive designs where 763 A surge current is not required |
| SMCJ18CA | Same SMC package, but rated for 1500 W (10/1000 μs); VBR = 20.0–22.2 V, VC = 29.2 V @ 512 A | Meets basic ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a but lacks AEC-Q101 qualification and 30 kV ESD rating | Use where cost sensitivity outweighs automotive qualification and enhanced ESD robustness |
Compared with SMAJ18CA and SMCJ18CA, SMC3K18CAHM3_A delivers triple the peak pulse power, AEC-Q101 validation, and full 30 kV ESD immunity-making it the only option qualified for under-hood automotive ECUs requiring simultaneous load dump, ESD, and ISO 7637-2 compliance.
Availability
SMC3K18CAHM3_A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial programmable logic controllers, telecom power interfaces, and body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for SMC3K18CAHM3_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 high-reliability diodes, rectifiers, and protection devices for demanding industrial and automotive applications.
The SMC3KxxCAHM3_A series was developed specifically for AEC-Q101-compliant automotive power line and signal line transient suppression, emphasizing high pulse power density, low clamping ratio, and long-term reliability under thermal cycling.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMC3K18CAHM3_A at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMC3K18CAHM3_A clamps to 29.2 V at its specified peak pulse current of 763 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures downstream circuitry remains below safe voltage thresholds during surge events. The clamping voltage is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and does not degrade after repeated pulses meeting JEDEC 22-A114 stress conditions.
Is SMC3K18CAHM3_A suitable for protecting CAN FD bus lines?
SMC3K18CAHM3_A can be used for CAN FD bus protection when placed on the power rail or common-mode choke output, but not directly across differential pairs due to its 300 pF typical junction capacitance-this may attenuate signal edges above 2 Mbps. For direct CAN FD line protection, lower-capacitance TVS arrays like Vishay's USB3XXX series are recommended; SMC3K18CAHM3_A serves best as primary rail-level surge guard upstream of the transceiver.
Does SMC3K18CAHM3_A require a heatsink in standard PCB layouts?
No, SMC3K18CAHM3_A does not require an external heatsink when mounted on a standard FR4 PCB with the recommended 2 oz copper pad layout per JEDEC 51-2A. Its RthJA of 90 °C/W and RthJM of 4.0 °C/W ensure adequate thermal dissipation during transient events, even at ambient temperatures up to 125 °C. Heatsinking is unnecessary unless subjected to sustained repetitive surges exceeding 1 Hz duty cycle.
How does the HM3 suffix affect SMC3K18CAHM3_A's compliance profile?
The HM3 suffix on SMC3K18CAHM3_A indicates halogen-free molding compound, RoHS compliance, AEC-Q101 qualification, and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. It also confirms UL 497B recognition (file E136766) and MSL Level 1 rating-distinguishing it from non-HM3 variants that lack automotive qualification or safety certification. All electrical specs remain identical across suffix variants.
Can SMC3K18CAHM3_A replace SMCJ18CA in an existing design without layout changes?
Yes, SMC3K18CAHM3_A uses the identical SMC (DO-214AB) package footprint and pin configuration as SMCJ18CA, enabling drop-in replacement on the same PCB land pattern. However, due to its higher peak pulse current (763 A vs. 512 A) and tighter clamping tolerance, system-level surge testing must be repeated to confirm improved margin-not just functional equivalence-especially in ISO 16750-2 Pulse b scenarios.
SMC3K18CAHM3_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):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 103A
- 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)
SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC3K18CAHM3_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 SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC3K18CAHM3_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 SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I?
SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC3K18CAHM3_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 SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC3K18CAHM3_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 SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I?
All SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC3K18CAHM3_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 SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC3K18CAHM3_A/I Tags

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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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