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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 160VWM 259VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,320
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Product details
Overview
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package, designed for high-energy surge protection with 1500 W peak pulse power rating, 160 V standoff voltage (VWM), and clamping voltage of 259 V at 5.8 A peak pulse current. It protects sensitive signal lines and power rails in automotive ECUs, industrial motor drives, and telecom interface circuits against lightning-induced transients and inductive switching spikes.
For engineers reviewing the SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I datasheet, SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I pinout, SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I application, or SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, 1500 W surge rating, low thermal resistance (RθJL = 15 °C/W), and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard PCB pad layouts.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 MΩ leakage at VWM), but triggers into low-impedance conduction when reverse voltage exceeds its breakdown range (178–197 V at 1 mA test current). Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable avalanche characteristics and fast response (<1 ns).
Designed for bidirectional operation, SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I suppresses transients of either polarity without external polarity management. Its thermal design supports continuous operation up to +150 °C junction temperature, with derating applied above TA = 25 °C per Figure 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 working margin for 12 V–48 V DC systems. |
| VBR min/max | 178 V / 197 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown voltage window ensuring reliable triggering across process variation and temperature. |
| VC @ IPPM | 259 V at 5.8 A - Clamping voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; limits downstream voltage stress to protected ICs or MOSFETs. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak pulse power handling per 10/1000 μs waveform; enables robust protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; supports under-hood automotive use and high-ambient industrial environments. |
| RθJL | 15 °C/W - Low junction-to-lead thermal resistance; allows efficient heat transfer to PCB copper pads without heatsink. |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Standard surface-mount outline with 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm thermal pad footprint per terminal. |
Pinout & Package
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I uses the SMC (DO-214AB) package: a molded, low-profile, surface-mount case with two terminals and no polarity marking (bidirectional configuration). Mounting requires 0.31" × 0.31" (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm) copper pads per terminal for rated power dissipation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Acts as cathode during positive transients and anode during negative transients; symmetric conduction enables polarity-agnostic protection. |
| Cathode | Transient return path (bidirectional) | Electrically identical to Anode in CA-series devices; no band marking confirms bidirectional construction. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock per JESD22 standards. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable avalanche characteristics over lifetime and prevents parameter drift due to moisture or contamination ingress. |
| MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak) | Compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles without preconditioning; eliminates moisture-related popcorning risk. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ESD or inductive kick), improving clamping precision. |
| RoHS-compliant matte tin plating | Meets J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102 solderability requirements; supports long-term intermetallic bond integrity. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Distribution | Industrial Motor Drive Inputs |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V/24 V supply rails in body control modules against load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt-type transient suppressor placed directly across input terminals upstream of DC/DC converters. Use Value: Clamps 120 V load dump transients to ≤259 V, preventing damage to downstream PMICs and microcontrollers rated for 36 V absolute maximum. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding gate driver inputs and feedback sensing lines in variable frequency drives exposed to motor back-EMF spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element on isolated analog signal paths between motor controller and current-sense amplifiers. Use Value: Suppresses ±1 kV/50 Ω ringwave transients while maintaining <1 nA leakage at 160 V, preserving measurement accuracy. |
| Telecom Line Interface Protection | Renewable Energy Inverter DC Link |
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHY interfaces and RS-485 transceivers from induced surges on outdoor cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS on differential pair inputs, coordinated with secondary GDT or polymer PTC. Use Value: Responds within <1 ns to 10/1000 μs surges, limiting voltage to 259 V before secondary protection activates - critical for 3.3 V logic-level transceivers. | Use Scenario: Guarding DC link capacitors and IGBT gate drivers in solar inverters subjected to grid-switching transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across DC bus terminals to absorb repetitive switching energy and lightning-induced spikes. Use Value: Handles 1500 W pulses without degradation, enabling compliance with IEC 62109-1 surge immunity requirements for PV inverters. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ160A-E3/57T | Lower PPPM (400 W), same VWM (160 V), SMA package (smaller thermal mass) | Not suitable for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4; limited to lower-energy surges in space-constrained consumer designs | Select only when board area is critical and surge threat level is ≤Level 2. |
| 1.5KE160A | Higher VBR (178–197 V), same VC (259 V), axial DO-201 package, non-AEC-Q101 | Lacks automotive qualification and SMT compatibility; requires through-hole assembly and larger PCB real estate | Choose for legacy through-hole designs where rework cost outweighs performance trade-offs. |
Compared with SMAJ160A-E3/57T and 1.5KE160A, SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I delivers 3.75× higher surge power handling, AEC-Q101 qualification, and SMT-ready packaging - making it the preferred choice for new automotive, industrial, and telecom designs requiring robust, production-ready transient protection.
Availability
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial motor controls, telecom infrastructure, and renewable energy systems requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for SMCJ160CAHE3_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, 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, high-reliability transient suppression in harsh environments including automotive under-hood, industrial automation, and outdoor telecom equipment.
FAQ
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I?
The "CA" suffix in SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I denotes a bidirectional configuration, meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression for both positive and negative voltage excursions. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., SMCJ160A), SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I has no polarity marking and functions identically in either direction - essential for protecting AC-coupled or floating signal lines where voltage polarity is undefined.
Is SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's ordering code structure (HE3 suffix) and documentation. This qualification covers stress tests including temperature cycling, high-temperature operating life, and mechanical shock - validating its suitability for engine control units, ADAS sensors, and infotainment power supplies in passenger vehicles and commercial fleets.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I under surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I is 259 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 5.8 A using the standardized 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured at the device terminals and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by downstream circuitry during worst-case surge events - a critical parameter for ensuring protected components remain within their absolute maximum ratings.
How does the SMC (DO-214AB) package of SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I affect thermal performance?
The SMC (DO-214AB) package of SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I provides a thermal resistance of 15 °C/W from junction to lead (RθJL), enabling effective heat transfer to PCB copper pads. When mounted on the recommended 0.31" × 0.31" (8.0 mm × 8.0 mm) copper pads per terminal, SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I sustains its full 1500 W surge rating without external heatsinking - a key advantage over smaller packages like SMA or SMB in high-energy protection roles.
Can SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I replace unidirectional TVS diodes in existing designs?
No - SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I cannot directly replace unidirectional TVS diodes (e.g., SMCJ160A) without circuit review, because its bidirectional behavior conducts during forward-biased conditions. In DC-powered circuits where polarity is fixed, using SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I may cause unintended conduction or increased leakage. Replacement requires verifying that the application tolerates symmetrical clamping and confirming layout compatibility with the unmarked SMC package.
SMCJ160CAHE3_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:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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)
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCJ160CAHE3_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 SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCJ160CAHE3_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 SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I?
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCJ160CAHE3_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 SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCJ160CAHE3_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 SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I?
All SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCJ160CAHE3_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 SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCJ160CAHE3_A/I Tags
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