Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ12CA-M3/57T
- Part No.:
- SMCJ12CA-M3/57T
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12VWM 19.9VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features a 12 V standoff voltage (VWM), 19.9 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 75.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 1500 W peak pulse power (PPPM) with 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed in automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O protection.
For engineers reviewing the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T datasheet, SMCJ12CA-M3/57T pinout, SMCJ12CA-M3/57T application, or SMCJ12CA-M3/57T equivalent, this part delivers verified bidirectional surge suppression for 12 V rail protection, meets AEC-Q101 qualification when ordered with HE3/HM3 suffixes, and requires no polarity marking due to symmetrical terminal behavior.
Technical Context
This TVS operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: during transient overvoltage events exceeding its breakdown threshold (13.3–14.7 V at 1 mA), it avalanches to limit downstream voltage to ≤19.9 V while diverting up to 75.4 A. Its bidirectional architecture ensures identical clamping in both polarities without external circuit reconfiguration.
Thermally, it sustains operation from –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature, with RθJA = 75 °C/W and RθJL = 15 °C/W, enabling reliable performance on standard PCB copper pads (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm per terminal). The glass-passivated junction and halogen-free M3 construction support automated placement and automotive-grade reliability.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping initiates; defines safe DC/AC working range. |
| VBR min/max | 13.3 V / 14.7 V at 1 mA - Verified breakdown onset range; ensures predictable turn-on margin above VWM. |
| VC @ IPPM | 19.9 V at 75.4 A - Clamped voltage under full 1500 W transient; determines protected circuit's worst-case overvoltage exposure. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak pulse power handling with 10/1000 μs waveform; quantifies single-event surge energy absorption capability. |
| ID @ VWM | 5.0 μA - Reverse leakage at rated standoff voltage; low value minimizes standby power loss and signal distortion. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables use in under-hood automotive and high-ambient industrial environments. |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Standardized surface-mount outline with 7.75 mm × 6.22 mm footprint and 2.62 mm height; compatible with J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 reflow. |
Pinout & Package
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T uses the SMC (DO-214AB) package: a two-terminal, symmetrical surface-mount device with no polarity marking for bidirectional operation. 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 anode or cathode depending on instantaneous polarity; no fixed polarity assignment. |
| Terminal 2 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Electrically identical to Terminal 1; forms symmetrical clamping path across protected line pair. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or floating differential lines without polarity concerns. |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV/2 Ω) on 12 V systems without degradation. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.42) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream ICs compared to higher-ratio suppressors. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant (M3) | Meets environmental compliance requirements for automotive and industrial end-equipment without sacrificing surge robustness. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and standard reflow profiles - eliminates baking requirements prior to assembly. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC Analog Input |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor front-ends (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ESD events in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt-type transient clamp placed directly across signal/power pins of sensor interface ICs. Use Value: Limits induced transients to ≤19.9 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 12 V rail-connected ASICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 4–20 mA current loop inputs and ±10 V analog inputs in programmable logic controllers against field wiring surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on input terminals, upstream of precision op-amps and ADC drivers. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping fast transients (<1 ns rise time) before they propagate into sensitive measurement circuitry. |
| Telecom Power Feeding | Consumer USB Port Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Protecting PoE (Power over Ethernet) midspan injectors and splitters from lightning-induced surges on 48 V DC feed lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level surge suppressor on DC output rails feeding powered devices. Use Value: Absorbs up to 1500 W of transient energy without failure, preserving uptime in outdoor telecom infrastructure. |
Use Scenario: Hardening USB 2.0 data lines and VBUS against ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV) and cable discharge events in portable electronics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional ESD clamp between D+/D− and ground, and across VBUS-to-ground. Use Value: Achieves <100 ps response time and sub-20 V clamping, meeting USB-IF ESD immunity requirements without signal attenuation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12CA-E3/57T | Lower PPPM (400 W), smaller SMA package (DO-214AC), higher VC (23.2 V at 17.3 A). | Targeted for space-constrained consumer designs where 1500 W surge capacity is unnecessary. | Select when board area is critical and surge threat level is limited to IEC 61000-4-2 ESD only. |
| SMCJ12A-M3/57T | Unidirectional variant; same VWM, VBR, and PPPM but requires correct polarity orientation during layout. | Used where DC-biased lines (e.g., 12 V supply rails) need asymmetric protection with lower leakage. | Choose only if system polarity is fixed and reverse conduction must be blocked; otherwise SMCJ12CA-M3/57T offers greater design flexibility. |
Compared with SMAJ12CA-E3/57T and SMCJ12A-M3/57T, the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T uniquely balances high-energy 1500 W clamping, bidirectional symmetry, and SMC package thermal robustness - making it optimal for automotive and industrial applications demanding both reliability and layout simplicity.
Availability
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial I/O conditioning, and telecom power feeding requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T 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 and application-specific performance.
The SMCJ series is engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom systems where sustained surge immunity and AEC-Q101 compliance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of SMCJ12CA-M3/57T under maximum surge conditions?
The SMCJ12CA-M3/57T clamps to a maximum of 19.9 V when subjected to its rated 75.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and confirmed in the Vishay datasheet revision 09-Jan-2024. The clamping voltage remains consistent across both polarities due to its bidirectional design, ensuring predictable protection for AC or floating signal paths in the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T.
Is SMCJ12CA-M3/57T qualified for automotive applications?
The SMCJ12CA-M3/57T itself is not AEC-Q101 qualified; qualification applies only to variants with HE3 or HM3 suffixes (e.g., SMCJ12CAHE3_A). However, the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T shares identical electrical characteristics, SMC package, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction - making it suitable for non-automotive industrial and telecom applications where AEC-Q101 is not mandated. Always verify qualification status via the full ordering code when automotive use is required for the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T.
How does the bidirectional nature of SMCJ12CA-M3/57T affect PCB layout?
The SMCJ12CA-M3/57T has no polarity marking and functions identically regardless of orientation, simplifying PCB layout by eliminating cathode/anode alignment checks. Engineers can place the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T symmetrically across differential lines or ungrounded rails without concern for terminal assignment. This reduces assembly errors and supports compact routing in space-constrained modules where the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T is used for balanced transient suppression.
What is the thermal resistance of SMCJ12CA-M3/57T, and how does it impact derating?
The SMCJ12CA-M3/57T has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 75 °C/W and junction-to-lead (RθJL) of 15 °C/W when mounted on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads. At ambient temperatures above 25 °C, its peak pulse power must be derated per Figure 2 in the Vishay datasheet - for example, at 75 °C TA, PPPM drops to ~1100 W. Proper thermal pad design is essential to maintain the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T within its 150 °C maximum junction temperature limit during repeated surge events.
Can SMCJ12CA-M3/57T replace SMCJ12A-M3/57T in an existing design?
Yes, the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T can replace the unidirectional SMCJ12A-M3/57T without circuit modification, provided the application benefits from bidirectional clamping - such as protecting AC-coupled signals or floating buses. However, the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T exhibits slightly higher reverse leakage (5.0 μA vs. 1.0 μA for the unidirectional version) and lacks polarity marking. If the original design relies on blocking reverse conduction, retain the SMCJ12A-M3/57T; otherwise, the SMCJ12CA-M3/57T offers enhanced flexibility and identical surge ratings.
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T 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 (SMC)
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T 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-M3/57T reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCJ12CA-M3/57T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T?
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCJ12CA-M3/57T 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-M3/57T?
For technical support, including SMCJ12CA-M3/57T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCJ12CA-M3/57T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCJ12CA-M3/57T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCJ12CA-M3/57T 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-M3/57T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCJ12CA-M3/57T?
All SMCJ12CA-M3/57T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCJ12CA-M3/57T, 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-M3/57T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCJ12CA-M3/57T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCJ12CA-M3/57T Tags

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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