Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ160AHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMCJ160AHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 259VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for high-energy surge protection of DC power rails and signal lines. 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 (PPPM) with 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed in automotive power supply inputs and industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I datasheet, SMCJ160AHE3_A/I pinout, SMCJ160AHE3_A/I application, or SMCJ160AHE3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping performance under 10/1000 μs transients, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance (RθJA = 75 °C/W), and compatibility with automated SMT placement on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads.
Technical Context
The SMCJ160AHE3_A/I operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, delivering fast response (<1 ns) to ESD and lightning-induced surges. Its unidirectional polarity uses a cathode band marking and exhibits low incremental surge resistance, enabling stable clamping across repetitive transients up to TJ = 150 °C.
Designed per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, it meets UL 497B recognition (QVGQ2) and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance. The device is rated for 200 A non-repetitive forward surge (IFSM, 8.3 ms half-sine) and derates linearly above TA = 25 °C per Fig. 2 in the datasheet.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 160 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; defines safe DC rail margin for 12 V–48 V systems. |
| VBR min/max | 178 V / 197 V at IT = 1 mA - Breakdown voltage range ensures reliable turn-on without premature conduction during normal operation. |
| VC @ IPPM | 259 V at 5.8 A (10/1000 μs) - Clamping voltage limits downstream IC stress during surge events; critical for MOSFET gate or MCU I/O protection. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak pulse power handling capacity determines survivability against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2/5a or IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| ID @ VWM | 1.0 μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage preserves efficiency in battery-powered or high-impedance sensor circuits. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Enables use in under-hood automotive environments and enclosed industrial enclosures without thermal derating penalties. |
| RθJA | 75 °C/W - Thermal resistance measured on standard 0.31" × 0.31" copper pads; informs heatsinking requirements for sustained surge duty cycles. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, matte tin-plated leads, RoHS-compliant and AEC-Q101 qualified. Dimensions: 7.75 mm × 6.22 mm × 2.62 mm (L × W × H). Molding compound meets UL 94 V-0.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | Anode-side connection in unidirectional configuration | Connected to protected line (e.g., +12 V rail); clamps positive transients to ground when reverse-biased. |
| Anode | Reference/ground node | Typically tied to system ground plane; establishes reference for clamping action and must maintain low-inductance path. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive powertrain and body electronics per stress test requirements including temperature cycling and HTRB. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures long-term reliability and stable VBR over 1000+ hours at TJ = 150 °C; eliminates moisture-induced parameter drift. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ESD > 30 kV), improving protection margin for sensitive analog front-ends. |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Enables single-reflow soldering without moisture sensitivity concerns; eliminates baking requirement prior to assembly. |
| UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2) | Confirms compliance for telecom and industrial signal-line protectors; accepted by safety certifiers for end-equipment listings. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Input Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 12 V/24 V battery-fed ECUs exposed to load dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between input rail and chassis ground to clamp surges above 160 V. Use Value: Limits peak voltage to 259 V during 1500 W transients, protecting downstream DC/DC converters and CAN transceivers. |
Use Scenario: 4–20 mA current-loop sensors in factory automation subject to cable-induced surges and ESD. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS mounted across sensor output terminals to shunt transients before reaching ADC input stage. Use Value: Sub-μA leakage at 160 V prevents measurement error; 1 ns response avoids signal distortion during fast transients. |
| Telecom DC Power Feeds | Consumer Device USB Power Input |
|
Use Scenario: -48 V telecom rectifier outputs feeding base station boards vulnerable to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional SMCJ160AHE3_A/I used in series with fuse to protect upstream rectifier and downstream PMIC. Use Value: 1500 W PPPM handles IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV/2 Ω) surges; AEC-Q101 grade supports extended field life. |
Use Scenario: USB-C PD input stage in portable monitors subjected to hot-plug ESD and adapter transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS placed between VBUS and GND to clamp overvoltage before USB PD controller and buck converter. Use Value: 259 V clamping voltage provides 30 V margin above 22 V max PD profile; low RθJA enables compact layout. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ160AHE3_A/I | Same VWM (160 V) and VC (259 V), but lower PPPM (600 W) and smaller SMB (DO-214AA) package. | Limited to lower-energy surges (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 2); unsuitable for automotive load dump or telecom primary protection. | Select only when board space is constrained and surge energy does not exceed 600 W. |
| SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I | Bidirectional variant with identical VWM (160 V), VC (259 V), and PPPM (1500 W), but symmetric clamping in both polarities. | Required for AC-coupled or floating signal lines (e.g., RS-485, Ethernet PHY) where negative transients occur. | Choose when protecting bidirectional data lines or ungrounded power rails; not interchangeable with unidirectional SMCJ160AHE3_A/I. |
Compared with SMBJ160AHE3_A/I, the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I delivers 2.5× higher surge energy handling in the same footprint family; versus SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I, it offers optimized cost and lower capacitance for DC rail protection but lacks negative-polarity clamping capability.
Availability
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial sensor interfaces, and telecom DC power feeds requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 assurance and full traceability.
Supply support for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I 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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, automotive qualification, and high-power handling.
The SMCJ series targets high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - engineered for automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where robustness and standardized surge compliance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The SMCJ160AHE3_A/I clamps to a maximum of 259 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 5.8 A with a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is specified in the Electrical Characteristics table and verified per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 test conditions. The clamping voltage directly determines the maximum stress imposed on downstream components during surge events, making it a critical parameter for circuit protection design using the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I.
Is the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I AEC-Q101 qualified?
Yes, the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by the "HE3" suffix and explicit note in the Mechanical Data section. This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing (uHAST), validating its suitability for automotive powertrain and body electronics. The SMCJ160AHE3_A/I meets these requirements without derating in ambient temperatures up to +125 °C.
What is the meaning of the "_A/I" suffix in SMCJ160AHE3_A/I?
The "_A/I" suffix in SMCJ160AHE3_A/I indicates packaging and reel configuration: "A" denotes the revision code (per Vishay's ordering nomenclature), and "I" specifies 13-inch diameter plastic tape and reel with 3500 units per reel. This matches the Ordering Information table on page 3 of the datasheet. The base part SMCJ160AHE3 is RoHS-compliant and AEC-Q101 qualified; the "_A/I" suffix adds delivery mode and revision tracking for production traceability of the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I.
Can the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I be used in bidirectional signal protection?
No, the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I is a unidirectional TVS diode and must not be used for bidirectional signal protection. Its cathode band marking and asymmetric IV curve allow clamping only for positive transients relative to ground. For bidirectional applications such as RS-485 or AC-coupled lines, the SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I - the CA-suffixed bidirectional variant - is required. Using the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I in place of a bidirectional device risks failure during negative-going surges.
What is the thermal resistance junction-to-ambient for the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I?
The typical thermal resistance junction-to-ambient (RθJA) for the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I is 75 °C/W, measured on the minimum recommended pad layout (0.31" × 0.31" copper pads per terminal). This value assumes no additional heatsinking and defines the temperature rise above ambient at 6.5 W steady-state dissipation. For pulsed surge conditions, transient thermal impedance curves (Fig. 5) govern short-duration heating, but RθJA remains essential for estimating average power handling in repetitive surge scenarios involving the SMCJ160AHE3_A/I.
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I 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):
- 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 (SMCJ)
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I 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 SMCJ160AHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCJ160AHE3_A/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I?
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCJ160AHE3_A/I 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 SMCJ160AHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMCJ160AHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCJ160AHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCJ160AHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCJ160AHE3_A/I 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 SMCJ160AHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCJ160AHE3_A/I?
All SMCJ160AHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCJ160AHE3_A/I, 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 SMCJ160AHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCJ160AHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCJ160AHE3_A/I Tags

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