Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ12CA-E3/57T
- Part No.:
- SMCJ12CA-E3/57T
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional 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 maximum clamping voltage at 75.4 A peak pulse current and 12 V stand-off voltage. It protects sensitive ICs and MOSFETs in automotive and industrial power rails.
For engineers reviewing the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T datasheet, SMCJ12CA-E3/57T pinout, SMCJ12CA-E3/57T application, or SMCJ12CA-E3/57T equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, 1500 W surge rating, 12 V working voltage, low leakage (<5 μA), and AEC-Q101 qualification eligibility via HE3 suffix variants.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates symmetrically in both directions due to its bidirectional construction, enabling protection of AC-coupled or differential signal lines without polarity concerns. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown behavior and fast response time (<1 ns) to transient events such as ESD, inductive switching spikes, and lightning surges.
Designed for surface-mount assembly on standard PCB copper pads (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm per terminal), it meets MSL level 1 per J-STD-020 and supports reflow soldering up to 260 °C peak temperature. The device exhibits a typical thermal resistance of 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient and 15 °C/W junction-to-lead.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stand-off Voltage (VWM) | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 13.3–14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed minimum/maximum threshold where avalanche conduction initiates |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 19.9 V at 75.4 A (10/1000 µs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 1500 W - Sustained energy absorption capacity under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform |
| Leakage Current (ID) | <5 µA at 12 V - Minimal DC loading on protected line during normal operation |
| Junction Temperature Range | −55 °C to +150 °C - Enables deployment in under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Standardized surface-mount outline with 2 terminals and matte tin-plated leads |
Pinout & Package
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T uses the SMC (DO-214AB) package: a 2-terminal, non-polarized surface-mount case with no cathode/anode marking for bidirectional types. Terminals are matte tin-plated and solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Either terminal serves as symmetrical connection point; no polarity dependency in circuit layout |
| Terminal 2 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Electrically identical to Terminal 1; enables placement across any two-node interface needing bidirectional surge suppression |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, differential buses, or ungrounded power domains without polarity constraints |
| 1500 W peak pulse rating | Withstands high-energy transients common in automotive load-dump and industrial motor drive environments |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VWM = 1.66) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream components relative to working voltage |
| MSL Level 1 compliance | Supports standard reflow processes without moisture sensitivity handling requirements |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path | HE3/HM3 suffix variants available for automotive applications requiring reliability validation |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed ECUs against ISO 7637-2 pulse 1, 2a, and 5a transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed between power rail and ground to clamp negative and positive spikes. Use Value: Limits voltage excursion to ≤19.9 V during 75.4 A surge, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in microcontrollers and CAN transceivers. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) connected to ADC inputs in factory automation PLCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed across differential or single-ended signal lines to suppress ESD and switching noise from nearby solenoids. Use Value: Sub-5 µA leakage avoids signal offset errors; 19.9 V clamping prevents ADC input saturation during 1 kV ESD events. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Consumer USB Port Surge Suppression |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers on telecom base station backplanes from induced lightning surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Connected line-to-line and line-to-ground to absorb common-mode and differential-mode transients. Use Value: Symmetrical 13.3–14.7 V breakdown ensures balanced clamping on both data lines, preserving signal integrity during 1500 W surges. | Use Scenario: Adding secondary-level surge immunity to USB 2.0 VBUS and D+/D− lines in smart home hubs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS deployed across VBUS–GND and D+–D− to handle hot-plug spikes and ESD. Use Value: 12 V stand-off allows normal 5 V USB operation; 19.9 V clamping prevents damage to USB PHYs during IEC 61000-4-2 contact discharge. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAC12CA | Lower PPPM (1000 W), same VWM (12 V), higher VC (22.0 V), smaller SMA package | Less robust for high-energy automotive load-dump; suitable for space-constrained consumer designs | Select SAC12CA only when board area is critical and surge energy remains below 1000 W. |
| SMCJ12A-E3/57T | Unidirectional variant; identical VWM, VBR, and PPPM but asymmetric clamping (forward VF ≈ 3.5 V) | Requires correct polarity orientation; unsuitable for AC or floating signal paths | Choose SMCJ12A-E3/57T only when protecting DC rails with known polarity and no reverse-voltage risk. |
Compared with SAC12CA and SMCJ12A-E3/57T, the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T provides superior energy handling and true bidirectional symmetry-critical for differential interfaces and automotive systems where polarity cannot be assumed.
Availability
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial control systems, and telecom infrastructure requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for SMCJ12CA-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 performance.
The SMCJ series is engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments-including automotive, industrial, and telecom-where robustness, repeatable clamping, and long-term stability are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SMCJ12CA-E3/57T under a 10/1000 µs surge?
The SMCJ12CA-E3/57T has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V when subjected to a 75.4 A peak pulse current with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transient events. The SMCJ12CA-E3/57T maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is SMCJ12CA-E3/57T suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is compatible with automotive use cases, and AEC-Q101 qualified versions are available under the HE3 or HM3 suffixes (e.g., SMCJ12CAHE3_A). While the E3/57T variant itself is commercial-grade, its electrical specs-including 1500 W PPPM, −55 °C to +150 °C operation, and MSL Level 1-align with automotive subsystem requirements. The SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is commonly deployed in body control modules and infotainment power rails.
Does SMCJ12CA-E3/57T have polarity markings on the package?
No, the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T does not feature polarity markings because it is a bidirectional TVS diode. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMCJ12A), which use a band to indicate the cathode, the CA-suffix devices are symmetrical and function identically regardless of orientation. This eliminates layout constraints and simplifies placement for differential or AC-coupled circuits using the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T.
What is the thermal resistance of SMCJ12CA-E3/57T?
The SMCJ12CA-E3/57T has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 75 °C/W and a junction-to-lead resistance (RθJL) of 15 °C/W, measured on the recommended 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pad layout per terminal. These values reflect its ability to dissipate short-duration surge energy without exceeding the 150 °C maximum junction temperature. Proper PCB copper area is essential to achieve the rated 1500 W PPPM for the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T.
How does SMCJ12CA-E3/57T differ from SMCJ12A-E3/57T?
The SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is bidirectional with symmetrical clamping in both polarities, while the SMCJ12A-E3/57T is unidirectional and conducts only in reverse bias-forward conduction occurs at ~3.5 V. The CA version supports AC signal lines and floating grounds; the A version requires strict polarity alignment and offers lower forward voltage in DC forward conduction. Both share identical VWM (12 V), PPPM (1500 W), and package (SMC), but their circuit roles differ fundamentally-the SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is used where polarity is undefined or alternating.
SMCJ12CA-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:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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)
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCJ12CA-E3/57T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCJ12CA-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 SMCJ12CA-E3/57T reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCJ12CA-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 SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCJ12CA-E3/57T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCJ12CA-E3/57T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCJ12CA-E3/57T?
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCJ12CA-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 SMCJ12CA-E3/57T?
For technical support, including SMCJ12CA-E3/57T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCJ12CA-E3/57T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCJ12CA-E3/57T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCJ12CA-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 SMCJ12CA-E3/57T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCJ12CA-E3/57T?
All SMCJ12CA-E3/57T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCJ12CA-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 SMCJ12CA-E3/57T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCJ12CA-E3/57T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCJ12CA-E3/57T Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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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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