Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT
- Part No.:
- SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 188VWM DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT 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, 188 V standoff voltage (VWM), and clamping voltage of 328 V at 4.6 A peak pulse current. It protects sensitive signal lines and power rails in automotive sensor interfaces, industrial motor drives, and telecom power supplies against lightning-induced transients and inductive switching spikes.
For engineers reviewing the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT datasheet, SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT pinout, SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT application, or SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping symmetry, 1500 W 10/1000 µs surge capability, -55 °C to +150 °C operating junction temperature, halogen-free RoHS compliance (M3 suffix), and compatibility with automated SMT placement on standard PCB pad layouts.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: when reverse (or forward, in bidirectional mode) voltage exceeds its breakdown threshold (209–231 V), it avalanches rapidly (<1 ns response) to divert surge current away from downstream circuitry. Its low incremental surge resistance ensures stable clamping under high-current transients.
The SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT uses a glass-passivated silicon junction housed in an SMC package rated per J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 (260 °C peak reflow), with matte tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. It exhibits a positive temperature coefficient of VBR (+0.108 %/°C), enabling predictable derating above 25 °C ambient.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 188 V - Maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage; defines maximum normal operating bus voltage it can protect without conduction. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 209–231 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering above system overvoltage thresholds. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 328 V at IPPM = 4.6 A (10/1000 µs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during full-rated surge; critical for IC-level voltage margining. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 1500 W - Energy-handling capacity for standardized 10/1000 µs waveform; determines survivability against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges. |
| ID (Max Reverse Leakage) | 1.0 µA at VWM - Ultra-low leakage preserves signal integrity and minimizes standby power loss in high-impedance circuits. |
| TJ max. | +150 °C - Enables operation in under-hood automotive or enclosed industrial environments without thermal shutdown. |
| Package | SMC (DO-214AB) - Industry-standard surface-mount outline with 7.75 mm × 6.22 mm footprint and 2.62 mm height; supports automated pick-and-place and reflow. |
Pinout & Package
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT is a two-terminal bidirectional TVS diode in SMC (DO-214AB) package. No polarity marking is present on the case, as both terminals are functionally symmetric for AC or differential surge suppression.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Anode / Cathode (bidirectional) | Either terminal serves as current entry point during positive or negative transients; no fixed polarity required in layout. |
| Terminal 2 | Cathode / Anode (bidirectional) | Complementary terminal completing the symmetrical avalanche path; enables protection of AC-coupled or floating signal lines. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Identical VBR and VC performance in both directions - eliminates need for orientation-aware placement and supports differential line protection (e.g., RS-485, CAN). |
| 1500 W peak pulse rating | Withstands 4.6 A surge current per 10/1000 µs waveform - meets IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity requirements for industrial and automotive applications. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (M3) | Meets JEDEC J-STD-208 material restrictions and environmental compliance mandates for global electronics manufacturing. |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Unlimited floor life at ≤30 °C/60% RH - allows direct use from reel without baking, reducing production overhead. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Enhances long-term reliability and stability of breakdown characteristics under thermal cycling and humidity stress. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial Motor Drive Control |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN/CAN bus nodes and analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and jump-start transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt-type transient suppressor placed directly at connector interface to clamp induced surges before they reach MCU I/O or signal conditioning ICs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity below 328 V clamping level while surviving repeated 1500 W surges - extends ECU field life and reduces warranty returns. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding gate drivers and feedback sensing circuits in variable-frequency drives exposed to inductive kickback from 3-phase motors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp across isolated power supply rails and current-sense amplifier inputs to prevent latch-up or destruction during fault events. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping ensures equal protection for positive/negative rail excursions, eliminating need for dual unidirectional devices and saving board space. |
| Telecom Power Input Stage | Consumer USB-C Power Delivery |
|
Use Scenario: Front-end surge suppression on 48 V DC input of PoE-powered switches and base station RF modules subjected to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp positioned after input fuse but before DC-DC converter, absorbing energy before upstream components fail. Use Value: 188 V VWM aligns with 48 V nominal systems with 20–30% tolerance; 328 V VC ensures downstream converters remain within absolute maximum ratings. |
Use Scenario: Protecting USB-C CC and VBUS lines in portable chargers and docking stations against ESD and cable hot-plug transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional TVS placed adjacent to connector to suppress fast-rising ESD pulses without distorting high-speed signaling. Use Value: Sub-1 µA leakage at 188 V VWM prevents battery drain in always-on USB-C accessories; SMC package fits tight connector keep-out zones. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAC188CA | Same VWM (188 V) and PPPM (1500 W), but in smaller SMA (DO-214AC) package with lower thermal mass and 500 W derated peak power at 100 °C. | Limited to lower-duty-cycle surges due to reduced thermal dissipation; unsuitable for repetitive industrial transients. | Select SAC188CA only for space-constrained consumer designs with infrequent, low-energy surges. |
| SMCJ188A-M3/9AT | Unidirectional variant with identical VWM, VBR, and PPPM, but cathode-marked and asymmetric clamping (forward conduction only in one direction). | Requires correct polarity placement; cannot protect AC-coupled or floating differential signals without additional circuitry. | Choose SMCJ188A-M3/9AT only for DC-biased single-ended lines where polarity is fixed and reverse conduction is undesirable. |
Compared with SAC188CA and SMCJ188A-M3/9AT, the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT uniquely delivers bidirectional symmetry, superior thermal robustness via SMC package, and halogen-free compliance - making it the preferred choice for automotive, industrial, and telecom applications demanding repeatable high-energy surge immunity without polarity constraints.
Availability
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial motor drive control, and telecom power input stages requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable halogen-free sourcing.
Supply support for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT 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 high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components for industrial, automotive, and computing markets.
The SMCJ series is engineered specifically for high-power transient suppression in harsh environments, targeting AEC-Q101-qualified automotive systems and industrial equipment subject to IEC 61000-4-5 surge standards.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT under a 10/1000 µs surge?
The SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT clamps to a maximum of 328 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 4.6 A using the standardized 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at the device terminals under specified test conditions (TA = 25 °C, mounted on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads) and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. Designers must verify that downstream components tolerate this clamping level with appropriate safety margin.
Is the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT is qualified to AEC-Q101 when ordered with HE3 or HM3 suffixes; however, the M3/9AT variant itself is commercial-grade and not AEC-Q101 certified. For automotive use, specify SMCJ188CAHM3_X (e.g., SMCJ188CAHM3_A) to obtain the AEC-Q101-qualified version. The SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT remains suitable for non-safety-critical automotive subsystems where qualification is not mandated, such as infotainment power rails or body-control module sensors.
How does the bidirectional nature of the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT affect PCB layout?
The SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT has no polarity marking and functions identically in both directions, so PCB layout requires no orientation alignment - either terminal may connect to either side of a differential line or AC-coupled signal path. This simplifies routing, eliminates assembly errors from incorrect placement, and enables single-component protection for balanced interfaces like RS-485, CAN FD, or Ethernet PHYs without external biasing networks.
What is the maximum operating temperature for the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT?
The SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT has a maximum junction temperature (TJ max.) of +150 °C and an operating junction/storage temperature range of -55 °C to +150 °C. Its thermal resistance from junction to ambient (RθJA) is 75 °C/W on standard PCB pads, meaning power dissipation must be carefully managed in high-temperature enclosures. Derating curves in the Vishay datasheet (Fig. 2) show usable surge capability declines above 25 °C ambient, requiring design margin for sustained high-temperature operation.
Does the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT meet RoHS and halogen-free requirements?
Yes, the "M3" suffix in SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT explicitly denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction per JEDEC J-STD-208 and EU Directive 2011/65/EU. The molding compound, lead finish (matte tin), and internal materials contain no brominated flame retardants, chlorine, or other restricted halogens. This makes the SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT suitable for environmentally regulated markets including the EU, China, and South Korea.
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT 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):
- 188V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- -
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- -
- 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)
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT 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 SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT reliable?
The price and inventory of SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT?
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT 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 SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT?
For technical support, including SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT 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 SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT?
All SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT, 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 SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMCJ188CA-M3/9AT Tags

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
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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