Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I

Overview

SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I 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 26 V standoff voltage (VWM), 42.1 V maximum clamping voltage at 35.6 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs), and 1500 W peak pulse power dissipation. Used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in automotive and industrial control systems.

For engineers reviewing the SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I datasheet, SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I pinout, SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I application, or SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, halogen-free RoHS compliance, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads.

Technical Context

This device operates as a voltage-clamping protector using an avalanche breakdown mechanism. Its bidirectional symmetry enables suppression of both positive and negative transients without polarity sensitivity, making it suitable for AC-coupled or differential signal paths. The glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and low leakage (<1.0 µA at VWM).

Thermal performance is defined by R_θJA = 75 °C/W and R_θJL = 15 °C/W, supporting operation up to +150 °C junction temperature. It meets J-STD-020 MSL Level 1 and withstands 260 °C reflow peak temperature, confirming suitability for standard lead-free assembly processes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I uses the SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package: 2-terminal, non-polarized, unmarked case for bidirectional operation. Dimensions: 7.75 mm × 6.22 mm × 2.62 mm (L × W × H); cathode/anode terminals are symmetrical and interchangeable.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I, SMAJ26CAHE3_A/I offers reduced surge handling and thermal robustness, while SMCJ26CAHE3_A/I matches performance but omits halogen-free assurance-making SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I the preferred choice for AEC-Q101 and environmental compliance-critical programs.

Availability

SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial sensor interfaces, and telecom data line protection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for SMCJ26CAHM3_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 and application-specific validation.

The SMCJ series was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments, targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications demanding AEC-Q101 qualification and robust surge immunity.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?

The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 42.1 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 35.6 A under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at the device terminals and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.

Is SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and specifically designed for automotive use, including engine control modules, body electronics, and infotainment systems. Its halogen-free construction, MSL Level 1 rating, and validated performance under temperature cycling and humidity bias meet OEM requirements. The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I is listed in Vishay's automotive-grade ordering matrix with HM3 suffix.

How does the bidirectional configuration of SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I affect its PCB layout?

The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I has no polarity marking and identical electrical behavior in both directions, eliminating orientation constraints during placement. PCB layout requires symmetric 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads per terminal to ensure proper thermal dissipation and surge current handling. No silkscreen polarity indicator is needed, simplifying assembly and reducing risk of misplacement. The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I functions identically regardless of trace routing direction.

What is the maximum reverse leakage current for SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I at 26 V?

The maximum reverse leakage current (ID) for SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I is 1.0 µA when biased at its rated standoff voltage of 26 V and tested at 25 °C. This low leakage ensures minimal impact on high-impedance sensor circuits or battery-powered systems. The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I maintains ID ≤1.0 µA across its full –55 °C to +125 °C operating range, as verified per Vishay's characterization data.

Does SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I require derating at elevated ambient temperatures?

Yes, SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I must be derated above 25 °C ambient per Figure 2 in the Vishay datasheet (Doc. #88394). At 70 °C ambient, its peak pulse power drops to ~850 W (57% of 1500 W rating); at 100 °C, it falls to ~500 W. Derating ensures junction temperature remains below 150 °C. The SMCJ26CAHM3_A/I thermal resistance values (R_θJA = 75 °C/W, R_θJL = 15 °C/W) support accurate thermal modeling in system-level design.