Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCG160CAHE3/57T
- Part No.:
- SMCG160CAHE3/57T
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-215AB, SMC Gull Wing
- Datasheet:
-
SMCG160CAHE3/57T.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 259VC DO215AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,220
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Product details
Overview
SMCG160CAHE3/57T from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in the SMCG (DO-215AB) package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 160 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 259 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 5.8 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 1500 W peak pulse power dissipation (PPPM) with a 10/1000 µs waveform - deployed in automotive sensor signal lines, industrial I/O ports, and telecom interface protection.
For engineers reviewing the SMCG160CAHE3/57T datasheet, SMCG160CAHE3/57T pinout, SMCG160CAHE3/57T application, or SMCG160CAHE3/57T equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping symmetry, AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use, low thermal resistance (RθJL = 15 °C/W), and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped crowbar during transients, leveraging an avalanche breakdown mechanism to divert surge energy away from downstream circuitry. Its bidirectional architecture ensures symmetrical clamping in both polarities, with identical breakdown voltage range (178–197 V) and leakage current ≤1.0 µA at VWM.
Thermally, it sustains operation up to TJ = 150 °C and delivers 6.5 W power dissipation at TA = 50 °C, enabled by low junction-to-lead thermal resistance (15 °C/W) and UL 94 V-0 compliant molding compound - critical for reliability in high-temperature automotive engine bay or industrial control environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 160 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe signal swing margin for protected lines. |
| VBR (min/max) | 178 V / 197 V - Breakdown occurs within this band at 1 mA test current; ensures predictable turn-on across temperature and unit variation. |
| VC @ IPPM | 259 V at 5.8 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000 µs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on downstream ICs or MOSFETs. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak transient power it can absorb without failure; supports protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a and IEC 61000-4-5 surges. |
| ID @ VWM | ≤1.0 µA - Reverse leakage at rated stand-off voltage; minimizes standby power loss and avoids false triggering in high-impedance circuits. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature rating; enables deployment in under-hood automotive or enclosed industrial enclosures. |
| RθJL | 15 °C/W - Junction-to-lead thermal resistance; allows direct heat conduction into PCB copper, supporting high-reliability thermal design. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMCG (DO-215AB) - surface-mount, low-profile gull-wing leaded package with matte tin-plated terminals, MSL Level 1 (260 °C reflow peak), and AEC-Q101 qualification. No polarity marking on bidirectional variants.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry point (positive half-cycle) | Conducts surge current toward cathode during positive transients; symmetric with cathode for bidirectional operation. |
| Cathode | Transient current entry point (negative half-cycle) | Conducts surge current toward anode during negative transients; identical electrical behavior to anode due to bidirectional structure. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing - suitable for ADAS sensors and body control modules. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Enables tighter clamping (VC/VBR ratio ≈ 1.45) and faster voltage stabilization during fast-rising transients like ESD or inductive kickback. |
| Glass passivated chip junction | Improves long-term stability and moisture resistance versus epoxy-passivated alternatives - critical for extended field life in humid environments. |
| MSL Level 1 compliance | Allows unlimited floor life and single-reflow processing at 260 °C peak - eliminates baking requirements and simplifies SMT line integration. |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Self-extinguishing encapsulation meets fire-safety standards for industrial and transportation equipment enclosures. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and alternator ripple in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed directly at connector interface to shunt transients before reaching signal conditioning circuitry. Use Value: Withstands 1500 W surges while maintaining ≤259 V clamping, preserving integrity of 3.3 V/5 V microcontrollers and precision ADCs downstream. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input/output channels on programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback and motor drive noise in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed across isolated I/O terminals to prevent latch-up or gate oxide damage in optocouplers and level shifters. Use Value: 160 V VWM aligns with 24 V DC control systems; 1.0 µA leakage avoids false triggering in high-impedance dry-contact sensing circuits. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer Power Adapter ESD Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY interfaces, RS-485 transceivers, and PoE injectors from lightning-induced surges and AC mains coupling in outdoor telecom cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS mounted at board edge before common-mode chokes and transformer isolation to absorb bulk surge energy. Use Value: 1500 W PPPM rating exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV line-earth) requirements; DO-215AB footprint supports high-current PCB trace routing. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary-side surge immunity to USB-C PD adapters and wireless charging base stations subjected to user-handling ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp on VBUS and CC lines to suppress ±8 kV contact discharge per IEC 61000-4-2 without signal distortion. Use Value: Symmetric clamping ensures equal protection for both polarity states of USB-C signaling; AEC-Q101 grade signals robustness beyond consumer-grade expectations. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ160A-E3/57T | Unidirectional; same VWM (160 V), but lower PPPM (400 W); SMA (DO-214AC) package with higher RθJA (110 °C/W). | Limited to DC-biased lines; insufficient for bidirectional AC-coupled or floating interfaces like RS-485 or CAN. | Select only when polarity is fixed and surge energy is ≤400 W; verify layout thermal relief for SMA package. |
| SMCJ160CAHE3/57T | Bidirectional; higher PPPM (1500 W), identical VWM and VC, but larger SMC (DO-214AB) package (7.11 mm × 6.22 mm vs. SMCG's 7.11 mm × 5.59 mm). | Same functional role but requires larger PCB area; slightly higher parasitic inductance due to longer leads. | Prefer when existing SMC footprint is standardized; avoid if space-constrained or high-frequency transient response is critical. |
Compared with SMAJ160A-E3/57T and SMCJ160CAHE3/57T, SMCG160CAHE3/57T delivers AEC-Q101 qualification and superior thermal performance (RθJL = 15 °C/W) in the smallest bidirectional DO-215AB footprint - enabling compact, automotive-grade surge protection where board space and junction temperature control are critical.
Availability
SMCG160CAHE3/57T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial PLC I/O hardening, and telecom line interface shielding requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 compliance, and consistent 1500 W surge handling.
Supply support for SMCG160CAHE3/57T 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 designs and manufactures discrete semiconductors including diodes, rectifiers, and TVS devices, emphasizing reliability, automotive qualification, and application-specific performance.
The SMCG series targets high-energy transient suppression in space-constrained, thermally demanding environments - engineered specifically for AEC-Q101 compliance and automated SMT assembly in automotive, industrial, and infrastructure systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMCG160CAHE3/57T under a 10/1000 µs surge?
The SMCG160CAHE3/57T clamps to a maximum of 259 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 5.8 A using the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and reflects worst-case voltage seen by protected circuitry during surge events - critical for ensuring downstream components remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Is SMCG160CAHE3/57T suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMCG160CAHE3/57T is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive use, including under-hood and chassis-mounted modules. Its construction includes glass passivated junctions, MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, and operation up to +150 °C junction temperature - meeting requirements for engine control units, ADAS sensors, and body electronics.
Does SMCG160CAHE3/57T have polarity markings on the package?
No, SMCG160CAHE3/57T does not feature polarity markings because it is a bidirectional TVS diode. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMCG160A), the CA suffix indicates symmetrical breakdown in both directions - eliminating the need for cathode band identification and simplifying PCB layout for AC-coupled or floating signal paths.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to ambient for SMCG160CAHE3/57T?
The typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of SMCG160CAHE3/57T is 75 °C/W when mounted on 0.31" × 0.31" (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. However, its much lower junction-to-lead resistance (RθJL = 15 °C/W) emphasizes that effective heat transfer relies on robust solder joint conduction to PCB copper - not ambient convection alone.
How does SMCG160CAHE3/57T differ from SMCG160AHE3/57T?
SMCG160CAHE3/57T is bidirectional with symmetrical clamping in both polarities and no polarity marking, whereas SMCG160AHE3/57T is unidirectional with a cathode band and conducts only in reverse bias. The "CA" suffix denotes bidirectional capability - essential for protecting AC signals, differential buses, or floating nodes where voltage polarity reverses during normal operation or transients.
SMCG160CAHE3/57T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-215AB, SMC Gull Wing
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 160V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 178V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 259V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 5.8A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- 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 (SMCG)
SMCG160CAHE3/57T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCG160CAHE3/57T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCG160CAHE3/57T 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 SMCG160CAHE3/57T reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCG160CAHE3/57T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMCG160CAHE3/57T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCG160CAHE3/57T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCG160CAHE3/57T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCG160CAHE3/57T?
SMCG160CAHE3/57T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCG160CAHE3/57T 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 SMCG160CAHE3/57T?
For technical support, including SMCG160CAHE3/57T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCG160CAHE3/57T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCG160CAHE3/57T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCG160CAHE3/57T 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 SMCG160CAHE3/57T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCG160CAHE3/57T?
All SMCG160CAHE3/57T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCG160CAHE3/57T, 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 SMCG160CAHE3/57T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCG160CAHE3/57T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCG160CAHE3/57T Tags

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