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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC5K12CA-M3/I
- Part No.:
- SMC5K12CA-M3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC5K12CA-M3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
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Product details
Overview
SMC5K12CA-M3/I 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. It features a 12 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 19.9 V clamping voltage (VC) at 251 A (10/1000 μs), and 5000 W peak pulse power rating - deployed to safeguard MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines against lightning-induced transients and inductive switching spikes in automotive and industrial systems.
For engineers reviewing the SMC5K12CA-M3/I datasheet, SMC5K12CA-M3/I pinout, SMC5K12CA-M3/I application, or SMC5K12CA-M3/I equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage under 251 A surge, bidirectional polarity, AEC-Q101 qualification, MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, and compatibility with reflow profiles up to 260 °C peak temperature.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector, responding within picoseconds to transient overvoltages exceeding its VWM threshold. Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time ensure minimal overshoot during 8/20 μs and 10/1000 μs surges, while maintaining stable clamping performance across -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature range.
The device uses an avalanche breakdown mechanism to divert surge current away from protected circuitry. Its bidirectional configuration eliminates polarity dependency in AC-coupled or differential signal paths, and its DO-214AB package supports high thermal dissipation via 4.0 °C/W junction-to-mount thermal resistance when soldered to appropriate copper area.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe signal swing margin for protected line. |
| VBR (min/max) | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering above VWM with process tolerance. |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V at 251 A (10/1000 μs) - Clamped voltage seen by downstream circuit during standardized surge; determines maximum stress on protected IC. |
| PPPM | 5000 W - Peak pulse power handling capability per 10/1000 μs waveform; enables robust protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature rating; supports operation in under-hood automotive and high-ambient industrial environments. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per AEC specification. |
| MSL Level | Level 1 (per J-STD-020) - No floor life limitation; compatible with standard SMT reflow without dry-pack requirements. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, bidirectional - no cathode band marking; matte tin-plated leads, RoHS-compliant and halogen-free (M3 suffix).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Surge current path terminal | Identical terminals due to bidirectional construction; either end connects to protected line, other to ground or return path. |
| Case (cathode side in unidirectional variants) | Thermal and mechanical interface | DO-214AB body provides primary heat conduction path to PCB copper; requires ≥ 20 mm² 2-oz copper pad for RthJM = 4.0 °C/W. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, differential buses (e.g., CAN, RS-485), and floating sensor outputs without polarity concerns. |
| 5000 W (10/1000 μs) peak pulse power | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity up to 4 kV (line-earth) in properly designed layouts with adequate trace inductance control. |
| 19.9 V clamping at 251 A | Keeps protected 12 V rail electronics below absolute maximum ratings during worst-case transients - critical for automotive microcontrollers and transceivers. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates long-term reliability under automotive thermal, mechanical, and electrical stress conditions - required for engine control, ADAS, and body electronics. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C reflow compatible | Eliminates moisture sensitivity handling constraints; allows direct placement into high-volume SMT lines without baking or special packaging. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Distribution | Industrial Sensor Signal Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V power inputs to body control modules (BCM), lighting drivers, and window lift ECUs from load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt-type transient suppressor placed between power rail and chassis ground, clamping surges before they reach downstream DC/DC converters and microcontrollers. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by preventing latch-up or permanent damage during ISO 16750-2 load dump events (up to 120 V, 400 ms), leveraging 175 °C TJ max and AEC-Q101 validation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA current loops, 0–10 V sensors) in factory automation PLC I/O modules exposed to motor switching noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp on differential or single-ended sensor outputs, limiting transient excursions to ≤20 V regardless of polarity. Use Value: Preserves measurement integrity and prevents ADC saturation or op-amp rail-to-rail clipping during 8/20 μs EFT bursts, enabled by sub-1 ns response and 19.9 V VC. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer Appliance Motor Control |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY magnetics bias rails and PoE detection circuits in enterprise switches from induced surges on building wiring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS on low-voltage auxiliary rails (e.g., 3.3 V, 5 V) adjacent to isolation transformers and data lines. Use Value: Complements primary gas discharge tube (GDT) protection by providing fast, low-clamp secondary suppression - critical for IEEE 802.3af/at compliance where <20 V clamping is mandated. |
Use Scenario: Securing gate drive signals and feedback sensing nodes in BLDC motor inverters inside washing machines and HVAC compressors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Localized TVS on half-bridge gate resistors and current-sense amplifier inputs to suppress Miller-induced spikes and shoot-through transients. Use Value: Prevents false triggering of overcurrent protection and MOSFET failure during commutation, using 5000 W PPPM to absorb repetitive 10/1000 μs switching energy without degradation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12CA-E3/52 | Lower PPPM (600 W), SMB (DO-214AA) package, same VWM/VBR range but higher VC (21.2 V at 27.5 A). | Rated for lower-energy transients; suitable for consumer-grade or non-automotive applications where space is constrained. | Select SMBJ12CA-E3/52 only if surge threat level is limited to IEC 61000-4-4 EFT (±2 kV) and board space prohibits SMC footprint. |
| 1.5KE12CA | Through-hole TO-218 package, 1500 W PPPM, higher VC (20.1 V at 75 A), no AEC-Q101 or MSL Level 1 rating. | Lacks automotive qualification and SMT compatibility; intended for legacy or prototyping use with manual assembly. | Choose 1.5KE12CA only for cost-sensitive, non-automotive, through-hole designs where reflow compatibility and AEC validation are not required. |
Compared with SMBJ12CA-E3/52 and 1.5KE12CA, the SMC5K12CA-M3/I delivers 8.3× higher surge power handling than SMBJ12CA and 3.3× more than 1.5KE12CA, while providing automotive-grade reliability, SMT scalability, and tighter clamping - making it the optimal choice for production-grade 12 V system protection where robustness and manufacturability are prioritized.
Availability
SMC5K12CA-M3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power distribution, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom line protection, and consumer appliance motor control requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for SMC5K12CA-M3/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 high-reliability, high-power, and automotive-qualified components.
The SMC5K12CA-M3/I belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure applications demanding AEC-Q101 validation and 175 °C operation.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMC5K12CA-M3/I under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SMC5K12CA-M3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at 251 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform, as specified in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number: 87024). This value represents the peak voltage seen across the device during standardized surge testing and directly determines the maximum stress imposed on protected downstream circuitry. The SMC5K12CA-M3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMC5K12CA-M3/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMC5K12CA-M3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its suitability for automotive electronic systems including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS modules. This qualification covers stress tests such as high-temperature reverse bias, temperature cycling, and ESD per human-body model (30 kV contact/air). The SMC5K12CA-M3/I also supports reflow profiles up to 260 °C and operates reliably from -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature.
What does the "M3" suffix indicate in SMC5K12CA-M3/I?
The "M3" suffix in SMC5K12CA-M3/I denotes a halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, industrial-grade variant with matte tin-plated leads that meet J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. It also passes JESD 201 Class 2 whisker testing. The "I" indicates packaging in 13-inch diameter plastic tape and reel with a base quantity of 3500 units - distinct from the "H" variant (7-inch reel, 850 units).
How does the bidirectional nature of the SMC5K12CA-M3/I affect its circuit placement?
The SMC5K12CA-M3/I is bidirectional and lacks a cathode band, meaning both terminals are functionally identical. It can be placed in series with any signal or power line - such as differential pairs (CAN, RS-485), AC-coupled analog paths, or floating sensor outputs - without regard to orientation. This simplifies layout, reduces BOM complexity, and avoids polarity-related assembly errors. The SMC5K12CA-M3/I achieves symmetrical clamping in both directions due to its dual-avalanche junction structure.
What is the thermal resistance profile of the SMC5K12CA-M3/I?
The SMC5K12CA-M3/I has a junction-to-mount thermal resistance (RthJM) of 4.0 °C/W and a junction-to-ambient resistance (RthJA) of 90 °C/W when mounted on a standard FR4 PCB per JEDEC 51-2A and 51-14 test methods. Effective heat dissipation requires a minimum 20 mm² copper pad (2 oz) beneath the SMC (DO-214AB) package. These values enable sustained operation at +175 °C junction temperature during repeated surge events, as validated in Vishay's thermal characterization curves.
SMC5K12CA-M3/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):
- 251A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 5000W (5kW)
- 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-214AB (SMC)
SMC5K12CA-M3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC5K12CA-M3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC5K12CA-M3/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 SMC5K12CA-M3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC5K12CA-M3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMC5K12CA-M3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC5K12CA-M3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC5K12CA-M3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC5K12CA-M3/I?
SMC5K12CA-M3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC5K12CA-M3/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 SMC5K12CA-M3/I?
For technical support, including SMC5K12CA-M3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC5K12CA-M3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC5K12CA-M3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC5K12CA-M3/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 SMC5K12CA-M3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC5K12CA-M3/I?
All SMC5K12CA-M3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC5K12CA-M3/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 SMC5K12CA-M3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC5K12CA-M3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC5K12CA-M3/I Tags
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