Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCG18CA-E3/57T
- Part No.:
- SMCG18CA-E3/57T
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-215AB, SMC Gull Wing
- Datasheet:
-
SMCG18CA-E3/57T.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 18VWM 29.2VC DO215AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMCG18CA-E3/57T from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in the SMCG (DO-215AB) surface-mount package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 18 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 1500 W peak pulse power (PPPM), clamping voltage of 29.2 V at 51.4 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
For engineers reviewing the SMCG18CA-E3/57T datasheet, SMCG18CA-E3/57T pinout, SMCG18CA-E3/57T application, or SMCG18CA-E3/57T equivalent, this device is selected for high-energy surge suppression in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial I/O lines, and DC power rail protection where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio, and MSL Level 1 solderability are critical.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics in forward and reverse directions - confirmed by "Electrical characteristics apply in both directions" and CA-suffix designation. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance and low leakage (≤1.0 µA at VWM), while the DO-215AB package provides low thermal resistance (RθJL = 15 °C/W) and supports automated placement on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads.
The device meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and UL 497B recognition (QVGQ2, E136766), and its derating curve (Fig. 2) shows linear power reduction above TA = 25 °C, enabling reliable operation up to TJ = 150 °C. Peak pulse current (IPPM = 51.4 A) is specified for 10/1000 µs waveform per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, with clamping performance validated under standardized surge conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 18 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe DC bias margin for protected line. |
| VBR min/max | 20.0 V / 22.1 V at IT = 1 mA - Tight breakdown window ensures predictable turn-on and compatibility with 18 V nominal systems. |
| VC @ IPPM | 29.2 V at 51.4 A - Clamping voltage during 10/1000 µs surge; limits downstream voltage stress to ≤29.2 V under full-rated threat. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak surge energy handling capability; enables protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV/2 Ω) transients. |
| ID @ VWM | ≤1.0 µA - Ultra-low leakage preserves signal integrity and battery life in always-on circuits. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Junction temperature limit supporting under-hood automotive and high-ambient industrial use. |
| MSL Level | Level 1 (260 °C peak) - Enables standard reflow without moisture sensitivity concerns or baking requirements. |
Pinout & Package
SMCG18CA-E3/57T uses the SMCG (DO-215AB) surface-mount package: a dual-leaded, gull-wing, symmetrical case with no polarity marking (bidirectional). Dimensions: 7.87 mm × 3.17 mm × 2.41 mm (L × W × H); terminals are matte tin-plated for J-STD-002 solderability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Identical bidirectional clamping behavior - either terminal serves as input/output; no orientation dependency in PCB layout. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units, ADAS sensors, and infotainment power rails. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures long-term VBR stability and low parameter drift under thermal cycling and humidity exposure. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a/5a), improving clamping fidelity. |
| UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2, E136766) | Meets safety standards for telecom and industrial signal line protectors without additional certification burden. |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak | Eliminates pre-bake steps and supports high-throughput SMT assembly in standard lead-free reflow profiles. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial I/O Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and inductive switching transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed directly at connector entry point to shunt surge energy before it reaches signal conditioning ICs. Use Value: With 29.2 V clamping and 1500 W rating, SMCG18CA-E3/57T prevents latch-up or damage to 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs during 12 V system surges. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding PLC digital input modules against field-wiring induced transients from solenoid coils, relay contacts, and motor drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary front-end TVS on 24 V DC input lines, working in concert with series impedance and filtering capacitors. Use Value: 18 V VWM aligns with 24 V nominal industrial supply tolerances, while 20–22.1 V VBR ensures rapid turn-on before downstream MOSFET gate oxide breakdown. |
| DC Power Rail Protection | Telecom Line Interface |
Use Scenario: Secondary overvoltage protection on 12 V or 24 V DC distribution rails feeding microcontrollers, PMICs, and memory subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected transient absorber placed after bulk capacitance but before point-of-load regulators. Use Value: 1500 W PPPM and 51.4 A IPPM handle repetitive surges from hot-plug events and back-EMF without degradation, extending system MTBF. |
Use Scenario: Surge protection on low-voltage telecom data lines (e.g., RS-485, Ethernet PHY side) exposed to lightning-induced coupling or AC power cross-talk. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamp between differential pair and ground, preserving common-mode noise rejection while limiting differential overvoltage. Use Value: Symmetrical VBR and VC ensure balanced clamping on both lines, maintaining signal integrity and meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 3 immunity requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18CA | Same VWM (18 V), lower PPPM (400 W), SMA (DO-214AC) package - 30% smaller footprint but higher RθJA (110 °C/W). | Preferred for space-constrained consumer electronics; insufficient for automotive-level surge testing (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4). | Select SMAJ18CA only when board area is critical and surge threat level is limited to IEC 61000-4-4. |
| SMBJ18CA | Same VWM (18 V), PPPM = 600 W, SMB (DO-214AA) package - intermediate power and thermal performance (RθJA = 85 °C/W). | Suitable for industrial controls with moderate surge exposure; lacks AEC-Q101 qualification and UL recognition. | Choose SMBJ18CA for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where 600 W surge capacity meets system-level test requirements. |
Compared with SMAJ18CA and SMBJ18CA, SMCG18CA-E3/57T delivers 2.5× and 2.5× higher peak pulse power respectively, plus AEC-Q101 qualification and UL 497B recognition - making it the only option qualified for under-hood automotive and safety-critical industrial deployments requiring full IEC 61000-4-5 compliance.
Availability
SMCG18CA-E3/57T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial I/O interface, and DC power rail protection requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SMCG18CA-E3/57T 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 is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in diodes, rectifiers, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific performance.
The SMCG series was engineered for high-power, high-reliability transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial automation, and telecom infrastructure where AEC-Q101 compliance and UL safety recognition are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMCG18CA-E3/57T and how is it measured?
The clamping voltage (VC) of SMCG18CA-E3/57T is 29.2 V, measured at a peak pulse current (IPPM) of 51.4 A using the standardized 10/1000 µs double-exponential surge waveform per ANSI/IEEE C62.35. This value represents the maximum voltage that appears across the device during full-rated transient suppression and is critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within their absolute maximum ratings. The SMCG18CA-E3/57T achieves this clamping performance while maintaining bidirectional symmetry.
Is SMCG18CA-E3/57T suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, SMCG18CA-E3/57T is AEC-Q101 qualified and UL 497B recognized (file E136766), making it approved for automotive use in engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces. Its 1500 W peak pulse power, 150 °C junction rating, and MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility meet stringent under-hood environmental and manufacturing requirements. The SMCG18CA-E3/57T is explicitly designated for bidirectional protection in 12 V and 24 V vehicle systems.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in SMCG18CA-E3/57T?
The "CA" suffix in SMCG18CA-E3/57T denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression in both forward and reverse directions, with identical breakdown and clamping characteristics. This is confirmed in the Vishay datasheet: "For bidirectional devices use CA suffix (e.g. SMCG188CA). Electrical characteristics apply in both directions." Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMCG18A), SMCG18CA-E3/57T has no cathode band marking and requires no polarity-aware placement.
What is the thermal resistance of SMCG18CA-E3/57T and why does it matter?
The SMCG18CA-E3/57T has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 15 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RθJA) of 75 °C/W when mounted on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads. Low RθJL enables efficient heat transfer to PCB copper during high-energy surges, preventing thermal runaway and ensuring repeatable clamping performance across multiple transient events. This thermal design margin is essential for automotive and industrial applications where ambient temperatures exceed 85 °C and surge repetition is possible.
How does SMCG18CA-E3/57T compare to unidirectional SMCG18A in circuit implementation?
SMCG18CA-E3/57T replaces two unidirectional TVS diodes (anode-to-ground + cathode-to-ground) with a single bidirectional device, simplifying layout, reducing BOM count, and eliminating polarity-dependent placement errors. While SMCG18A offers slightly lower clamping voltage (27.6 V vs. 29.2 V) in one direction, SMCG18CA-E3/57T provides matched performance in both polarities - critical for protecting AC-coupled or differential signals. The SMCG18CA-E3/57T also shares identical VWM (18 V), VBR (20.0–22.1 V), and PPPM (1500 W) ratings with its unidirectional counterpart.
SMCG18CA-E3/57T 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):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 51.4A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- 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 (SMCG)
SMCG18CA-E3/57T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCG18CA-E3/57T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCG18CA-E3/57T 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 SMCG18CA-E3/57T reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCG18CA-E3/57T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMCG18CA-E3/57T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCG18CA-E3/57T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCG18CA-E3/57T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCG18CA-E3/57T?
SMCG18CA-E3/57T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCG18CA-E3/57T 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 SMCG18CA-E3/57T?
For technical support, including SMCG18CA-E3/57T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCG18CA-E3/57T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCG18CA-E3/57T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCG18CA-E3/57T 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 SMCG18CA-E3/57T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCG18CA-E3/57T?
All SMCG18CA-E3/57T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCG18CA-E3/57T, 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 SMCG18CA-E3/57T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCG18CA-E3/57T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCG18CA-E3/57T Tags

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