Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ12A-E3/57T
- Part No.:
- SMCJ12A-E3/57T
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMCJ12A-E3/57T.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,004
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Product details
Overview
SMCJ12A-E3/57T from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for clamping voltage transients up to 1500 W peak pulse power with 19.9 V clamping voltage at 75.4 A surge current. It features 13.3–14.7 V breakdown voltage at 1 mA test current, 12 V stand-off voltage, and <5 µA reverse leakage at rated voltage - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in automotive and industrial power electronics.
For engineers reviewing the SMCJ12A-E3/57T datasheet, SMCJ12A-E3/57T pinout, SMCJ12A-E3/57T application, or SMCJ12A-E3/57T equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional polarity, 1500 W 10/1000 µs surge rating, 19.9 V clamping performance, RoHS-compliant matte tin plating, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard PCB copper pads.
Technical Context
The SMCJ12A-E3/57T operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, delivering fast response time (<1 ns) to transient overvoltages. Its unidirectional configuration uses cathode-band marking and exhibits low incremental surge resistance, enabling precise clamping during inductive load switching events.
Thermal design relies on RθJA = 75 °C/W (typ.) and RθJL = 15 °C/W (typ.), with derating above 25 °C ambient per Fig. 2. It meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 and supports peak forward surge current of 200 A (8.3 ms half-sine), making it suitable for high-energy transient suppression without thermal runaway.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 µs) | 1500 W - sustains high-energy surges without failure in automotive load-dump or ESD scenarios |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 19.9 V at 75.4 A - limits downstream voltage stress to safe levels for 12 V rail components |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 13.3–14.7 V at 1 mA - ensures reliable avalanche conduction onset before system damage |
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 12 V - blocks normal 12 V operating voltage while remaining fully inactive |
| Reverse Leakage Current | <5 µA at 12 V - negligible standby power loss and no signal integrity impact |
| Junction Temperature Range | −55 to +150 °C - supports under-hood automotive and industrial ambient conditions |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - industry-standard SMT footprint with 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pad thermal requirement |
Pinout & Package
SMCJ12A-E3/57T is housed in an SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Polarity is marked by a cathode band on the body; the device has two terminals only.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side reference terminal | Connected to ground or low-voltage return path; completes clamping loop during transient |
| Cathode (banded end) | High-side transient input terminal | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V supply or signal); conducts avalanche current to ground |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low-profile SMC package | Enables high-density PCB layouts and compatibility with automated pick-and-place equipment |
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable breakdown characteristics and long-term reliability under repeated surge stress |
| 1500 W peak pulse rating | Provides robust protection against ISO 7637-2 Load Dump (Pulse 5a) and IEC 61000-4-5 surges |
| AEC-Q101 qualification option | HE3/HM3 variants available for automotive-grade deployment with validated lifetime performance |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow without baking, simplifying manufacturing flow |
Applications
| Automotive Power Distribution | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V power rails in engine control units (ECUs) and body control modules (BCMs) from load dump and inductive switching spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS diode placed between battery feed and local regulator input to clamp transients before LDO or DC/DC stage. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to 19.9 V, preventing overvoltage damage to 24 V tolerant regulators and ensuring system reset-free operation. | Use Scenario: Shielding analog and digital signal lines (e.g., CAN, LIN, or ADC inputs) in factory automation sensors from ESD and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance transient suppressor installed at connector entry point to shunt fast transients to chassis ground. Use Value: Sub-5 µA leakage preserves signal integrity on high-impedance sensor outputs; 19.9 V clamping protects 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs without false triggering. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input Stage | Telecom DC Power Feeds |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding AC/DC adapter primary-side rectifier and secondary-side 12 V output against lightning-induced surges on mains-connected devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-side TVS mounted across output capacitor to absorb residual transients escaping primary-side MOVs. Use Value: 1500 W rating handles multiple 10/1000 µs surges; RoHS-compliant E3 suffix meets global regulatory requirements for consumer goods. | Use Scenario: Protecting -48 V DC telecom power distribution boards from hot-swap transients and accidental short-circuit recovery spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional suppressor connected between -48 V rail and return, leveraging cathode-to-rail orientation for correct biasing. Use Value: 12 V stand-off allows use on derived 12 V auxiliary rails; 1500 W rating exceeds GR-1089-CORE Class B immunity requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAC12 | Lower 600 W PPPM rating; 22 V clamping at 30 A; SOD-123FL package | Targeted for space-constrained, lower-energy consumer applications | Select when board area is critical and surge threat level is below ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2 |
| 1.5KE12A | Through-hole DO-201 package; identical 12 V VWM, but 19.9 V VC at 75 A; higher RθJA | Used where manual assembly or legacy through-hole infrastructure remains | Choose only if SMT capability is unavailable; requires larger PCB real estate and thermal relief |
Compared with SAC12 and 1.5KE12A, the SMCJ12A-E3/57T delivers superior surge handling in a compact SMT package with optimized thermal resistance - making it the preferred choice for modern automotive and industrial designs requiring high-reliability, automated production-ready TVS protection.
Availability
SMCJ12A-E3/57T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial sensor nodes, and telecom power systems requiring stable component supply, RoHS compliance, and AEC-Q101 traceability options.
Supply support for SMCJ12A-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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The SMCJ series is part of Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS platform, engineered specifically for high-power transient suppression in harsh environments - including automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where robustness and repeatable clamping performance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMCJ12A-E3/57T at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMCJ12A-E3/57T has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at 75.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures predictable overvoltage limiting for downstream 12 V system components. The SMCJ12A-E3/57T maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the SMCJ12A-E3/57T suitable for automotive applications?
Yes - while the base SMCJ12A-E3/57T is commercial-grade, Vishay offers AEC-Q101 qualified variants (e.g., SMCJ12AHE3) with identical electrical specs and enhanced reliability testing. The SMCJ12A-E3/57T itself meets MSL Level 1, uses matte tin plating compliant with J-STD-002, and supports −55 °C to +150 °C operation - all foundational requirements for automotive deployment. For certified use, specify the HE3 suffix variant of the SMCJ12A-E3/57T.
How does the SMCJ12A-E3/57T differ from bidirectional TVS diodes like SMCJ12CA?
The SMCJ12A-E3/57T is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity identification, allowing it to block 12 V in reverse bias while clamping positive transients. In contrast, SMCJ12CA is bidirectional with no polarity marking and clamps transients of either polarity - making it suitable for AC lines or differential signals. The SMCJ12A-E3/57T provides tighter leakage control (<5 µA) and is preferred for DC rail protection where reverse conduction must be avoided.
What is the thermal resistance of the SMCJ12A-E3/57T, and how does it affect PCB layout?
The SMCJ12A-E3/57T has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 75 °C/W when mounted on 0.31" × 0.31" (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. To maintain safe junction temperatures under repetitive surge conditions, PCB layout must provide these minimum pad areas and avoid excessive trace length or isolation. The SMCJ12A-E3/57T also has RθJL = 15 °C/W, indicating efficient heat transfer to solder joints - reinforcing the need for solid thermal vias and ground plane connectivity.
Can the SMCJ12A-E3/57T replace older 1.5KE series TVS diodes in existing designs?
The SMCJ12A-E3/57T offers identical electrical parameters (VWM = 12 V, VC = 19.9 V) to the through-hole 1.5KE12A but in an SMC surface-mount package. Direct replacement requires PCB redesign due to different footprint and thermal pad requirements. However, the SMCJ12A-E3/57T improves surge robustness (same PPPM), enables automated assembly, and reduces board space - making it a strategic upgrade where layout revision is feasible. Always verify thermal performance with the new pad layout for the SMCJ12A-E3/57T.
SMCJ12A-E3/57T 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):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 75.4A
- 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 (SMCJ)
SMCJ12A-E3/57T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCJ12A-E3/57T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCJ12A-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 SMCJ12A-E3/57T reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCJ12A-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 SMCJ12A-E3/57T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCJ12A-E3/57T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCJ12A-E3/57T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCJ12A-E3/57T?
SMCJ12A-E3/57T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCJ12A-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 SMCJ12A-E3/57T?
For technical support, including SMCJ12A-E3/57T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCJ12A-E3/57T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCJ12A-E3/57T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCJ12A-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 SMCJ12A-E3/57T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCJ12A-E3/57T?
All SMCJ12A-E3/57T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCJ12A-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 SMCJ12A-E3/57T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCJ12A-E3/57T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCJ12A-E3/57T Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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