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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC5K18A-M3/I
- Part No.:
- SMC5K18A-M3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC5K18A-M3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 18VWM 29.2VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,648
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Product details
Overview
SMC5K18A-M3/I 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 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 18 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 29.2 V max clamping voltage at 171 A (10/1000 μs), 5000 W peak pulse power, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
For engineers reviewing the SMC5K18A-M3/I datasheet, SMC5K18A-M3/I pinout, SMC5K18A-M3/I application, or SMC5K18A-M3/I equivalent, this device is selected for high-energy surge suppression on DC power rails and signal lines where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio, and stable thermal performance up to +150 °C junction temperature are critical.
Technical Context
This TVS operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal bias it presents <2.0 μA leakage at 18 V; during transients exceeding VBR, it avalanches rapidly to clamp voltage within nanoseconds. Its unidirectional polarity-cathode marked by band-enables use on positive-rail-only circuits without reverse conduction path concerns.
The SMC5K18A-M3/I leverages silicon avalanche structure with low incremental surge resistance (Rdyn) to maintain tight clamping across 171 A (10/1000 μs) and 1018 A (8/20 μs) pulses. Thermal design is supported by RthJA = 90 °C/W (FR4, 2 oz Cu) and RthJM = 4.0 °C/W, enabling sustained operation in automotive engine control units and industrial motor drives.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 20.0 V / 22.1 V - Ensures reliable turn-on above 18 V nominal rail while avoiding false triggering |
| VWM | 18 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before leakage exceeds 2.0 μA |
| VC @ IPPM (10/1000 μs) | 29.2 V - Clamps 171 A surge to safe level for downstream 24 V logic or MOSFET gate drivers |
| PPPM | 5000 W - Withstands 10/1000 μs surges typical of ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 & 2 in automotive systems |
| Junction Temp Range | −55 °C to +150 °C - Validated for under-hood automotive and industrial ambient conditions |
| ESD Immunity | ±30 kV HBM - Meets IEC 61000-4-2 contact/air discharge requirements for front-end interfaces |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Standard surface-mount footprint compatible with automated assembly and IPC-7351B land patterns |
Pinout & Package
SMC5K18A-M3/I uses the industry-standard SMC (DO-214AB) package: molded epoxy case with matte tin-plated leads, MSL Level 1 rating, and cathode identified by a color band. Dimensions conform to JEDEC DO-214AB outline (L: 7.11 mm × W: 6.22 mm × H: 2.62 mm).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side reference node | Connected to ground or negative rail; establishes reference for clamping action |
| Cathode | Protected line input | Connected to protected circuit node (e.g., 18 V supply rail); conducts surge current to anode during overvoltage |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Unidirectional clamping | Enables selective protection of positive-rail circuits without reverse conduction risk |
| 5000 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Handles high-energy load dump events per ISO 16750-2 without degradation |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS sensors |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (M3 suffix) | Meets global environmental compliance mandates without compromising surge performance |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.32) | Minimizes voltage overshoot during transient, protecting 24 V-rated ICs and MOSFETs |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 18 V supply inputs in automotive body control modules against load dump and inductive switching spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt-type transient suppressor placed between 18 V rail and chassis ground. Use Value: Clamps 171 A surges to ≤29.2 V, preventing latch-up or damage to microcontrollers and CAN transceivers. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA current loop) of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable unidirectional TVS placed across sensor output and return, referenced to local ground. Use Value: Limits induced transients to <30 V, preserving ADC input integrity and avoiding false readings during ESD events. |
| Telecom DC Power Input Protection | Consumer Device USB Power Path Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Securing −48 V DC telecom rectifier outputs against lightning-induced surges on central office equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS configured with cathode to −48 V rail and anode to system ground. Use Value: Delivers 5000 W surge handling at −48 V, meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 3 immunity requirements. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary overvoltage protection on 5 V USB VBUS lines in smart home hubs after primary DC-DC regulation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby clamping device placed between VBUS and GND, activated only during >6 V excursions. Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to clamp 100 V transients to <35 V, shielding USB-PD controllers and Type-C port logic. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18A-E3/5A | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (smaller footprint, higher RthJA = 110 °C/W) | Suitable for consumer-grade, lower-energy surges; not AEC-Q101 qualified | Select when space-constrained and automotive qualification is unnecessary |
| SMCJ18A | Same SMC package, identical VBR/VWM, but rated for 1500 W (10/1000 μs) and non-AEC-Q101 | Industrial-only grade; lacks automotive stress validation and M3 halogen-free compliance | Choose for cost-sensitive industrial designs where AEC-Q101 and RoHS are not mandated |
Compared with SMAJ18A-E3/5A and SMCJ18A, the SMC5K18A-M3/I delivers 3.3× higher surge power handling and certified automotive reliability-critical for safety-critical 18 V rail protection where failure modes must be rigorously controlled.
Availability
SMC5K18A-M3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom power supplies, and consumer USB power management requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SMC5K18A-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 high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components for demanding industrial and automotive environments.
The SMC5K18A-M3/I belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® family of high-power TVS diodes, engineered specifically for robust transient suppression in automotive power distribution, industrial automation, and infrastructure equipment.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage range of the SMC5K18A-M3/I?
The SMC5K18A-M3/I has a specified breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 20.0 V to 22.1 V at 1.0 mA test current. This ensures consistent avalanche initiation above the 18 V stand-off voltage while maintaining margin against false triggering under normal operating conditions. The value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 standards and validated across temperature.
Is the SMC5K18A-M3/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMC5K18A-M3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified-specifically validated for automotive use per the SMC5K10A–SMC5K20A series. Its qualification covers temperature cycling, humidity testing, mechanical shock, and surge endurance, making it suitable for engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS subsystems where reliability is mission-critical.
What does the "M3" suffix indicate in SMC5K18A-M3/I?
The "M3" suffix denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with matte tin-plated leads that meet JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. It also confirms compliance with JEDEC moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 1 and peak reflow temperature of 260 °C-ensuring compatibility with standard lead-free SMT assembly processes.
How does the clamping voltage of SMC5K18A-M3/I compare to its stand-off voltage?
The SMC5K18A-M3/I clamps to 29.2 V at 171 A (10/1000 μs), yielding a clamping ratio (VC/VWM) of ~1.62. This low ratio ensures protected circuits see minimal overvoltage-well below the 30–36 V absolute maximum ratings of most 24 V-rated ICs and MOSFETs-while maintaining robust energy absorption capability.
Can SMC5K18A-M3/I be used in bidirectional configurations?
No-the SMC5K18A-M3/I is strictly unidirectional, with cathode marked by a band and optimized for positive-rail-to-ground protection. For bidirectional surge suppression, Vishay offers separate symmetric devices like SMBJ18CA; using two SMC5K18A-M3/I units in series opposition is not recommended due to mismatched VBR tolerances and degraded clamping performance.
SMC5K18A-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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 171.2A
- 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 (SMCJ)
SMC5K18A-M3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC5K18A-M3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC5K18A-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 SMC5K18A-M3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC5K18A-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 SMC5K18A-M3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC5K18A-M3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC5K18A-M3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC5K18A-M3/I?
SMC5K18A-M3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC5K18A-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 SMC5K18A-M3/I?
For technical support, including SMC5K18A-M3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC5K18A-M3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC5K18A-M3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC5K18A-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 SMC5K18A-M3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC5K18A-M3/I?
All SMC5K18A-M3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC5K18A-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 SMC5K18A-M3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC5K18A-M3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC5K18A-M3/I Tags
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