Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC5K15A-M3/H
- Part No.:
- SMC5K15A-M3/H
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC5K15A-M3/H.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15VWM 24.4VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:854
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Product details
Overview
SMC5K15A-M3/H from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 15 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 16.7–18.5 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 5000 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), and clamps to 24.4 V at 205 A, making it suitable for protecting MOSFETs and signal lines in automotive and industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the SMC5K15A-M3/H datasheet, SMC5K15A-M3/H pinout, SMC5K15A-M3/H application, or SMC5K15A-M3/H equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification (for automotive-grade variants), 30 kV ESD immunity per IEC 61000-4-2, low incremental surge resistance, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant M3 termination - all critical for high-reliability board-level surge suppression.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in parallel with protected circuitry, responding within picoseconds to transients induced by inductive load switching or lightning surges. Its unidirectional configuration allows integration on DC-biased lines where reverse polarity protection is not required, and its thermal resistance (RthJA = 90 °C/W) supports sustained operation up to TJ = 150 °C.
The device meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 and withstands solder reflow peaks up to 260 °C. Its 30 kV contact-mode HBM ESD rating exceeds IEC 61000-4-2 requirements, and its 8/20 μs clamping performance (32.5 V at 1231 A) enables effective coordination with downstream protection stages in multi-tiered surge architectures.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins; defines safe DC bias margin for protected line. |
| VBR (min/max) | 16.7 V / 18.5 V at 1 mA - Tight breakdown tolerance ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC @ IPPM (10/1000 μs) | 24.4 V at 205 A - Clamping voltage under standard surge waveform; determines maximum stress on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM | 5000 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity; validates suitability for high-energy transients in automotive load-dump scenarios. |
| ESD Rating | 30 kV (IEC 61000-4-2 contact mode) - Enables direct interface with exposed connectors without additional ESD staging. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Supports operation in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures with elevated ambient temperatures. |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Industry-standard surface-mount outline with 8.13 mm × 6.22 mm footprint and 2.62 mm height; compatible with automated assembly. |
Pinout & Package
SMC5K15A-M3/H uses the SMC (DO-214AB) package: a molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, cathode indicated by a color band. The device has two terminals only: anode and cathode.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient current sink node | Connected to protected line; conducts surge current to ground when voltage exceeds VBR. |
| Anode | Reference/ground return path | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return plane; completes clamping current path during transient events. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Unidirectional clamping architecture | Enables use on positively biased DC rails without reverse leakage concerns; avoids unnecessary forward conduction during normal operation. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified variant available (HM3 suffix) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics; requires ordering code SMC5K15AHM3_A/H. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction (M3 suffix) | Meets global environmental compliance mandates without compromising surge performance or thermal reliability. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (<1 ns rise time), improving protection fidelity for high-speed interfaces. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Allows indefinite floor life before reflow; eliminates baking requirements and simplifies manufacturing logistics. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Distribution | Industrial Motor Drive Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply rails in vehicle ECUs against ISO 7637-2 load dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element placed at power entry point, absorbing >5000 W surges before they reach LDOs and microcontrollers. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to downstream silicon by limiting rail voltage to ≤24.4 V during 205 A transients. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding gate drivers and current-sense amplifiers in variable-frequency drives subjected to IGBT switching noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt protector on isolated signal lines and auxiliary power rails feeding control circuitry. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by suppressing sub-100 ns ringing spikes that would otherwise corrupt PWM timing or cause false fault triggering. |
| Telecom Interface Protection | Consumer Sensor Hub Inputs |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers and PoE-powered Ethernet PHYs from cable-induced surges and ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS placed after common-mode chokes, providing differential and common-mode clamping. Use Value: Ensures interoperability with IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge tests while maintaining <1 nF junction capacitance for signal bandwidth preservation. |
Use Scenario: Hardening analog inputs of environmental sensor hubs (e.g., temperature/humidity/IoT nodes) connected to long PCB traces or external connectors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-entry protection on each sensor channel, placed adjacent to ADC input pins. Use Value: Eliminates need for external RC filtering by delivering 30 kV ESD immunity and sub-25 V clamping, preserving measurement accuracy and offset stability. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15A-E3/5A (Vishay) | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (smaller footprint, higher RthJA = 110 °C/W), same VWM/VBR range. | Targeted at space-constrained consumer electronics; insufficient for automotive load-dump duty cycles. | Select SMC5K15A-M3/H when 5000 W surge handling and AEC-Q101 qualification are required. |
| 1.5KE15A (ON Semiconductor) | Through-hole DO-201 package, identical electrical specs but no M3 termination or AEC-Q101 option; higher lead-free solder compatibility risk. | Legacy industrial designs with through-hole assembly; unsuitable for high-volume SMT production or automotive qualification programs. | Choose SMC5K15A-M3/H for modern SMT lines requiring halogen-free, whisker-tested terminations and automotive traceability. |
Compared with SMAJ15A-E3/5A and 1.5KE15A, the SMC5K15A-M3/H delivers 12.5× higher peak pulse power in an SMT-optimized package with certified automotive reliability and environmental compliance - making it the preferred choice for next-generation automotive and industrial power systems.
Availability
SMC5K15A-M3/H is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power distribution, industrial motor drive protection, telecom interface hardening, and consumer sensor hub inputs requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for SMC5K15A-M3/H 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 reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMC5KxxA series was engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where failure modes must be mitigated without sacrificing signal integrity or thermal margin.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMC5K15A-M3/H under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SMC5K15A-M3/H clamps to a maximum of 24.4 V at 205 A under the standardized 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 3 in the Vishay datasheet 87742 and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during such a transient event. The actual clamping voltage may be lower depending on surge amplitude and duration, but design margins must be based on this guaranteed maximum. SMC5K15A-M3/H maintains this performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMC5K15A-M3/H AEC-Q101 qualified?
No - the SMC5K15A-M3/H is not AEC-Q101 qualified. That qualification applies only to parts with the HM3 suffix, such as SMC5K15AHM3_A/H. The M3/H suffix indicates halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance, but does not include the extended automotive stress testing required for AEC-Q101. For automotive applications requiring formal qualification, SMC5K15A-M3/H must be replaced with the HM3 variant. SMC5K15A-M3/H remains suitable for industrial and commercial use cases.
What is the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RthJA) of the SMC5K15A-M3/H?
The junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RthJA) of the SMC5K15A-M3/H is 90 °C/W, measured per JEDEC 51-2A on a standard FR4 PCB with 2 oz. copper and the recommended mounting pad layout. This value assumes natural convection cooling and defines the worst-case temperature rise at the die under steady-state power dissipation. In practice, the device is used for transient suppression rather than continuous power, so thermal design focuses on peak junction temperature during surge events - which remains within the 150 °C limit due to short pulse durations. SMC5K15A-M3/H's RthJM is 4.0 °C/W for more precise thermal modeling.
Can the SMC5K15A-M3/H be used for bidirectional transient protection?
No - the SMC5K15A-M3/H is a unidirectional TVS diode and cannot provide symmetrical clamping for AC or bipolar signals. Its internal structure permits conduction only from cathode to anode above VBR, with reverse leakage limited to 2.0 μA at VWM. For bidirectional protection, a dedicated bidirectional part such as SMC5K15CA-M3/H (center-tapped, symmetrical clamping) is required. Using SMC5K15A-M3/H on AC lines risks reverse breakdown or inadequate protection during negative transients. SMC5K15A-M3/H is strictly intended for DC-biased applications.
What does the "/H" in SMC5K15A-M3/H indicate in the ordering code?
The "/H" suffix in SMC5K15A-M3/H specifies the packaging format: 7-inch diameter plastic tape and reel, with a base quantity of 850 units per reel. This is distinct from the "/I" suffix, which denotes 13-inch reels containing 3500 units. Both /H and /I variants share identical electrical and mechanical specifications; the difference lies solely in logistics and handling. The "M3" portion confirms halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. SMC5K15A-M3/H is fully compatible with standard SMT pick-and-place equipment calibrated for SMC (DO-214AB) components.
SMC5K15A-M3/H 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):
- 15V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 24.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 205A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 5000W (5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMC)
SMC5K15A-M3/H FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC5K15A-M3/H through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC5K15A-M3/H 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 SMC5K15A-M3/H reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC5K15A-M3/H are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMC5K15A-M3/H is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC5K15A-M3/H?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC5K15A-M3/H transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC5K15A-M3/H?
SMC5K15A-M3/H orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC5K15A-M3/H 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 SMC5K15A-M3/H?
For technical support, including SMC5K15A-M3/H datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC5K15A-M3/H requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC5K15A-M3/H is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC5K15A-M3/H 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 SMC5K15A-M3/H meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC5K15A-M3/H?
All SMC5K15A-M3/H units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC5K15A-M3/H, 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 SMC5K15A-M3/H part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC5K15A-M3/H:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC5K15A-M3/H Tags

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