Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMC5K51CA-M3/I
- Part No.:
- SMC5K51CA-M3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMC5K51CA-M3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 51VWM 82.4VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMC5K51CA-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 with 51 V standoff voltage, 82.4 V clamping voltage at 60.7 A (10/1000 μs), and 5000 W peak pulse power. It protects MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in automotive and industrial power electronics against lightning and inductive switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the SMC5K51CA-M3/I datasheet, SMC5K51CA-M3/I pinout, SMC5K51CA-M3/I application, or SMC5K51CA-M3/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping behavior, AEC-Q101 qualification, 175 °C maximum junction temperature, and compatibility with automated SMT assembly using matte tin-plated leads.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector triggered by reverse-biased avalanche breakdown. Its bidirectional structure enables symmetrical clamping on both polarities without cathode band marking, supporting AC-coupled or floating signal line protection.
It delivers 5000 W peak pulse power under 10/1000 μs waveform and sustains 40 kW under 8/20 μs surge, with low incremental surge resistance ensuring stable clamping during fast-rising transients. Thermal resistance junction-to-mount is 4.0 °C/W, enabling effective heat transfer to PCB copper when mounted per JEDEC 51-14 TDIM method.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 51 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 82.4 V at 60.7 A (10/1000 μs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during rated surge |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 5000 W (10/1000 μs) - Energy-handling capacity for standard lightning-surge simulation |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 56.7–62.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range defining clamping threshold |
| Junction Temperature Range | –55 °C to +175 °C - Enables operation in under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| ESD Immunity | ±30 kV (IEC 61000-4-2 contact/air) - Robust static discharge tolerance for handling and field use |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Standardized surface-mount outline with 90 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance |
Pinout & Package
SMC5K51CA-M3/I uses the SMC (DO-214AB) package: molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads, no cathode band (bidirectional), MSL Level 1, RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and qualified to AEC-Q101. Dimensions conform to JEDEC DO-214AB standard (0.320" × 0.246" body, 0.126" lead spacing).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (Bidirectional) | Surge current path | No polarity marking required; terminals conduct identically in either direction during overvoltage events |
| Case (Body) | Thermal interface | Non-electrical; provides mechanical mounting and thermal conduction path to PCB copper pour |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating differential lines without polarity concerns |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated reliability for automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS subsystems |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.35) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream silicon while maintaining margin above VWM |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Supports lead-free reflow up to 260 °C peak without moisture-induced damage |
| UL 497B recognition (E136766) | Meets safety standards for telecom and industrial equipment transient protection circuits |
Applications
| Automotive Power Distribution | Industrial Sensor Signal Lines |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protection of 12 V/24 V power rails feeding ECUs, lighting modules, and motor drivers against load dump and alternator surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt clamping device placed in parallel with power input, activated within <1 ns upon voltage exceeding 51 V. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤82.4 V during 60.7 A transients, preventing latch-up or gate oxide rupture in connected MOSFETs and microcontrollers. |
Use Scenario: ESD and surge protection on analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature, position) in factory automation PLC I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp across differential or single-ended signal pairs, referenced to local ground. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity under ±30 kV ESD events and 8/20 μs surges up to 374 A, preserving ADC accuracy and avoiding false triggers. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Power Adapter Input |
Use Scenario: Primary-side surge suppression on Ethernet PHY interfaces, DSL line cards, and PoE injectors exposed to induced lightning transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt element placed before isolation transformers or common-mode chokes. Use Value: Clamps common-mode surges to ≤82.4 V within nanoseconds, preventing transformer saturation and PHY IC damage during 10/1000 μs events. |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side transient protection on DC output rails of wall adapters powering smart home hubs and IoT gateways. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage overvoltage limiter between rectifier/filter stage and USB-PD or LDO regulators. Use Value: Absorbs 5000 W surges without degradation, ensuring downstream 5 V/3.3 V logic remains within safe operating area during mains-coupled spikes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar TVS diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ51CA-M3/5A | Lower peak pulse power (600 W vs. 5000 W); SMB package (smaller footprint, higher RthJA = 110 °C/W) | Suitable only for lower-energy transients; not recommended for automotive load dump or industrial lightning scenarios | Select only if space-constrained and surge energy is limited to <100 mJ |
| SMC5K51A-M3/I | Unidirectional version (cathode band marked); identical VWM, VC, and PPPM but asymmetric clamping | Requires polarity-aware placement; unsuitable for AC or floating differential lines where bidirectional symmetry is essential | Choose only when protecting DC-biased unidirectional signals with strict polarity control |
Compared with SMBJ51CA-M3/5A and SMC5K51A-M3/I, the SMC5K51CA-M3/I uniquely combines 5000 W surge capability, bidirectional symmetry, AEC-Q101 qualification, and SMC thermal performance-making it the only option among the three validated for high-reliability automotive and industrial primary-side protection.
Availability
SMC5K51CA-M3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power distribution, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom line protection, and consumer power adapter designs requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for SMC5K51CA-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 reliability, power efficiency, and automotive-grade qualification.
The SMC5KxxCA series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS platform, engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments including automotive under-hood, industrial motor drives, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMC5K51CA-M3/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMC5K51CA-M3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 82.4 V at 60.7 A under the 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 3 in Vishay document 87024 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during standardized surge testing. The SMC5K51CA-M3/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMC5K51CA-M3/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMC5K51CA-M3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for junction temperatures up to +175 °C, making it suitable for under-hood automotive applications such as engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS power supplies. Its 5000 W peak pulse power and ±30 kV ESD immunity meet ISO 7637-2 and IEC 61000-4-2 requirements commonly specified in automotive OEM design guidelines. The SMC5K51CA-M3/I is explicitly listed in Vishay's AEC-Q101 qualified product table.
What does the "-M3/I" suffix indicate in SMC5K51CA-M3/I?
The "-M3" suffix denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, industrial-grade construction with JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. The "/I" indicates packaging in 13-inch diameter plastic tape and reel, with a base quantity of 3500 units per reel. This format supports high-volume automated SMT placement and is compatible with standard pick-and-place equipment. The SMC5K51CA-M3/I is distinct from the /H variant (7-inch reel, 850 units) and HM3 variants (AEC-Q101 qualified versions).
How does the bidirectional nature of the SMC5K51CA-M3/I affect circuit layout?
The SMC5K51CA-M3/I has no cathode band and functions identically in both directions, eliminating polarity orientation constraints during PCB placement. This simplifies layout for AC-coupled interfaces, differential signaling (e.g., RS-485, CAN), and floating sensor outputs where voltage reversals may occur. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the SMC5K51CA-M3/I requires no silkscreen polarity marking and avoids risk of incorrect orientation during assembly.
What is the thermal resistance profile of the SMC5K51CA-M3/I, and how does it impact PCB design?
The SMC5K51CA-M3/I has a junction-to-mount thermal resistance (RthJM) of 4.0 °C/W and junction-to-ambient resistance (RthJA) of 90 °C/W when mounted per JEDEC 51-2A on FR4 with standard footprint. To maximize surge endurance, designers should implement ≥100 mm² of 2 oz. copper connected to both terminals as a thermal pad. The SMC5K51CA-M3/I's low RthJM enables efficient heat transfer into internal ground/power planes, reducing thermal derating during repetitive surge events.
SMC5K51CA-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):
- 51V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 56.7V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 82.4V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 60.7A
- 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)
SMC5K51CA-M3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMC5K51CA-M3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMC5K51CA-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 SMC5K51CA-M3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMC5K51CA-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 SMC5K51CA-M3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMC5K51CA-M3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMC5K51CA-M3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMC5K51CA-M3/I?
SMC5K51CA-M3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMC5K51CA-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 SMC5K51CA-M3/I?
For technical support, including SMC5K51CA-M3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMC5K51CA-M3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMC5K51CA-M3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMC5K51CA-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 SMC5K51CA-M3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMC5K51CA-M3/I?
All SMC5K51CA-M3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMC5K51CA-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 SMC5K51CA-M3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMC5K51CA-M3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMC5K51CA-M3/I Tags

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onsemi

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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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ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
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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Diodes Incorporated
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