Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC5K12AHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMC5K12AHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC5K12AHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,669
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Product details
Overview
SMC5K12AHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for high-energy surge protection on power and signal lines. It features 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 19.9 V max clamping voltage at 251 A (10/1000 μs), 5000 W peak pulse power, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
For engineers reviewing the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I datasheet, SMC5K12AHM3_A/I pinout, SMC5K12AHM3_A/I application, or SMC5K12AHM3_A/I equivalent, this device is selected for robust overvoltage protection in automotive ECUs, industrial sensor interfaces, and DC power rail conditioning where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio, and MSL Level 1 solderability are critical.
Technical Context
The SMC5K12AHM3_A/I operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, triggered when reverse voltage exceeds its VBR threshold. Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time ensure minimal overshoot during transient events such as load dump or ESD.
It is rated for 10/1000 μs and 8/20 μs waveforms, with thermal resistance RthJA = 90 °C/W and RthJM = 4.0 °C/W, enabling stable operation up to TJ = 150 °C. The device meets IEC 61000-4-2 (30 kV contact/air discharge) and UL 497B safety standards.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 13.3 V / 14.7 V - Ensures reliable turn-on above 12 V system operating voltage while avoiding false triggering |
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage compatible with 12 V automotive and industrial rails |
| VC @ IPPM (10/1000 μs) | 19.9 V - Clamps transients to safe levels for downstream 24 V-rated ICs and MOSFETs |
| IPPM (10/1000 μs) | 251 A - Withstands high-energy surges typical of ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 & 2a in automotive environments |
| PPPM | 5000 W - Delivers industry-standard surge immunity without derating at TA = 25 °C |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Supports under-hood and industrial ambient conditions with full electrical performance |
| ESD Rating | 30 kV HBM (contact/air) - Meets stringent electrostatic discharge immunity for assembly and field operation |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified. Cathode indicated by molded band.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current path / low-side reference | Connected to ground or low-impedance return path; enables unidirectional clamping to GND |
| Cathode | Transient voltage input / protected line connection | Connected to the line being protected (e.g., 12 V supply or CAN-H); absorbs positive-going surges |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Unidirectional clamping architecture | Protects against positive transients only, minimizing leakage and capacitance on bidirectional lines like CAN or RS-485 |
| 5000 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Supports sustained surge energy handling required for automotive load-dump and inductive switching events |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Enables standard lead-free reflow without moisture sensitivity concerns or baking requirements |
| UL 497B recognition (E136766) | Confirms compliance with safety standards for telecom and industrial interface protection circuits |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial PLC Digital Input |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V power inputs and LIN bus lines in BCMs exposed to load dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS diode placed at board-level entry point to clamp surges before they reach MCU power rails and LIN transceivers. Use Value: Limits clamping voltage to 19.9 V, ensuring downstream 24 V-tolerant components remain within safe operating area during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a events. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input channels in programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end transient suppressor on optocoupler input side, absorbing inductive kickback from solenoid or relay coils. Use Value: Withstands 251 A peak pulse current, preventing latch-up or destruction of isolation barriers during repetitive switching events. |
| Telecom Power Supply Rail | Consumer Appliance Motor Driver |
|
Use Scenario: Guarding primary-side DC-DC converter inputs in telecom power supplies subjected to lightning-induced surges on AC/DC front-ends. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-stage TVS after MOVs, providing precise low-clamp protection for sensitive controller ICs and gate drivers. Use Value: Fast <1 ns response and 19.9 V clamping reduce stress on 30 V-rated FETs and enable smaller output capacitors due to lower voltage overshoot. |
Use Scenario: Shielding microcontroller GPIOs and half-bridge gate drivers in smart washing machine motor control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Localized TVS on motor phase lines and VDD rails to suppress commutation spikes and ESD from user interface buttons. Use Value: Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant SMC package supports global regulatory compliance while maintaining 5000 W surge capability in compact footprint. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12A-M3/86A | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (smaller footprint, higher RthJA = 110 °C/W), same VWM/VBR range | Suitable for space-constrained consumer designs with lower surge exposure; not AEC-Q101 qualified | Select when cost and size outweigh automotive reliability requirements |
| SMCJ12AHE3/57T | Same SMC package and AEC-Q101 qualification, but 1500 W PPPM rating and higher VC (23.2 V @ 139 A) | Used in legacy industrial systems where lower surge energy is expected; lacks UL 497B recognition | Choose if existing design uses SMPCJ family and requires drop-in compatibility without layout change |
Compared with SMC5K12AHM3_A/I, SMAJ12A-M3/86A offers reduced surge margin and no automotive qualification, while SMCJ12AHE3/57T provides identical packaging but significantly lower peak power handling and clamping performance-making SMC5K12AHM3_A/I optimal for high-reliability 12 V rail protection where 5000 W immunity is mandatory.
Availability
SMC5K12AHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial programmable logic controllers, telecom power supplies, and consumer appliance motor drives requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.
Supply support for SMC5K12AHM3_A/I 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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMC5K series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS platform, engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments including automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SMC5K12AHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at 251 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per IEC 61000-4-5 and ensures downstream 24 V-rated components remain within safe operating limits during standardized surge events. The SMC5K12AHM3_A/I achieves this with low dynamic impedance and fast avalanche response.
Is the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive electronics including engine control units, body modules, and infotainment systems. The HM3 suffix explicitly denotes AEC-Q101 compliance, and the device undergoes stress testing per JESD22 and JESD201 standards for temperature cycling, HTRB, and whisker resistance.
What does the "_A/I" suffix mean in SMC5K12AHM3_A/I?
The "_A/I" suffix in SMC5K12AHM3_A/I indicates packaging configuration: "A" denotes revision level A per Vishay's internal documentation, and "I" specifies 13-inch diameter plastic tape and reel packaging with 3500 units per reel. This matches the ordering code defined in Vishay Document 87742, Section "ORDERING INFORMATION".
Does the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I meet UL safety certification?
Yes, the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I carries UL 497B recognition with file number E136766, validating its use in safety-critical telecom and industrial interface protection circuits. This certification covers construction, flammability (UL 94 V-0 molding compound), and electrical safety performance under fault conditions.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to ambient for the SMC5K12AHM3_A/I?
The SMC5K12AHM3_A/I has a thermal resistance RthJA of 90 °C/W when mounted on a standard FR4 PCB per JEDEC 51-2A. This value assumes a 2 oz. copper footprint and defines the temperature rise per watt of power dissipation under steady-state conditions, supporting thermal design for repeated surge duty cycles.
SMC5K12AHM3_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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 251.3A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 5000W (5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMCJ)
SMC5K12AHM3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC5K12AHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC5K12AHM3_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 SMC5K12AHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC5K12AHM3_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 SMC5K12AHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC5K12AHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC5K12AHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC5K12AHM3_A/I?
SMC5K12AHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC5K12AHM3_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 SMC5K12AHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMC5K12AHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC5K12AHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC5K12AHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC5K12AHM3_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 SMC5K12AHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC5K12AHM3_A/I?
All SMC5K12AHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC5K12AHM3_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 SMC5K12AHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC5K12AHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC5K12AHM3_A/I Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
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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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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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