Vishay SMF12A-HE3_A18
- Part No.:
- SMF12A-HE3_A18
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-219AB
- Datasheet:
-
SMF12A-HE3_A18.pdf
- Description:
- ESD PROTECTION DIODE SMF DO219AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,400
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Product details
Overview
SMF12A-HE3_A18 from Vishay Semiconductors is a unidirectional surface-mount ESD protection diode in the SMF (DO-219AB) package, designed for transient voltage suppression in high-speed data lines. It features a 12 V stand-off voltage (VRWM), 19.9 V maximum clamping voltage at 10.1 A peak pulse current, ±30 kV IEC 61000-4-2 ESD immunity, and 200 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs). It is widely used in USB 2.0, HDMI, and industrial sensor interfaces requiring robust electrostatic discharge protection.
For engineers reviewing the SMF12A-HE3_A18 datasheet, SMF12A-HE3_A18 pinout, SMF12A-HE3_A18 application, or SMF12A-HE3_A18 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package dimensions, clamping behavior under surge conditions, AEC-Q101 qualification status, and real-world ESD protection use cases - all specific to the SMF12A-HE3_A18 variant.
Technical Context
This device operates as a single-channel unidirectional TVS diode with avalanche breakdown mechanism. Its low incremental surge resistance ensures rapid voltage clamping during transients, while its 483 pF typical junction capacitance at 0 V enables compatibility with signal lines up to ~100 Mbps without excessive signal distortion.
The SMF12A-HE3_A18 is rated for operation from –65 °C to +175 °C and qualified per AEC-Q101 for automotive applications. Its SOD-123W-compatible DO-219AB package supports wave and reflow soldering, with MSL level 1 moisture sensitivity and peak reflow temperature up to 260 °C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stand-off Voltage (VRWM) | 12 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 0.1 µA; defines safe operating margin below clamping threshold. |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 13.3–14.7 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures predictable turn-on during fast transients. |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 19.9 V max at 10.1 A (10/1000 µs) - Limits downstream IC voltage stress during surge events; critical for protecting 12 V logic rails. |
| Junction Capacitance (CD) | 483 pF at 0 V, 1 MHz - Measured signal-line loading; suitable for USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) and CAN FD with minimal rise-time degradation. |
| ESD Immunity | ±30 kV contact / ±30 kV air (IEC 61000-4-2) - Full compliance with Level 4 system-level ESD testing; eliminates need for secondary protection stages. |
| Peak Pulse Power | 200 W (10/1000 µs), 1000 W (8/20 µs) - Supports multi-pulse surge resilience in industrial environments with repetitive noise sources. |
| Operating Temperature | –65 °C to +175 °C - Enables deployment in under-hood automotive, motor drives, and outdoor industrial enclosures without derating. |
Pinout & Package
The SMF12A-HE3_A18 uses the DO-219AB (SMF) package: low-profile, surface-mount, cathode-bar marked, 3.9 mm × 1.9 mm × 1.08 mm body with gull-wing terminations. Compatible with SOD-123W footprint and automated assembly processes.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Input/Line side connection | Connected to protected signal line; conducts surge current toward ground when reverse-biased beyond VRWM. |
| Cathode | Ground reference terminal | Connected to system ground plane; establishes clamping reference and provides low-inductance return path for transient energy. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low-clamp architecture | 19.9 V VC at 10.1 A enables protection of 12 V systems with ≥2.1 V safety margin over supply rail. |
| "Low Noise" fast response | Sub-nanosecond turn-on time minimizes overshoot during ESD events; validated by IEC 61000-4-2 waveform fidelity. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Qualified for automotive-grade reliability including H3B-class ESD (>8 kV HBM) and extended temperature cycling. |
| Solder-reflow compatible | Rated for peak reflow temperatures up to 260 °C; supports standard lead-free PCB assembly without thermal damage risk. |
| MSL Level 1 handling | No dry-pack or baking required prior to assembly; simplifies manufacturing logistics and reduces process overhead. |
Applications
| USB 2.0 Interface Protection | HDMI Data Line Clamp |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting D+ and D− differential pairs in portable USB peripherals against user-handling ESD. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS diode placed between signal line and chassis ground to clamp transients before reaching USB transceiver. Use Value: 483 pF capacitance avoids signal integrity loss at 480 Mbps; ±30 kV ESD rating meets IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 compliance. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding TMDS clock and data channels in HDMI source devices (e.g., set-top boxes, GPUs) from hot-plug and cable discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-limited clamping device on each TMDS pair, referenced to local ground to suppress common-mode surges. Use Value: 12 V VRWM aligns with HDMI 1.4/2.0 DC bias; 19.9 V clamping prevents receiver input overvoltage without affecting eye diagram. |
| Automotive Sensor Signal Line | Industrial RS-485 Transceiver Port |
Use Scenario: Shielding analog outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature sensors) in engine control modules from load-dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary transient suppressor on sensor output trace, mounted adjacent to connector to minimize inductance. Use Value: –65 °C to +175 °C rating supports under-hood placement; AEC-Q101 qualification ensures long-term reliability in vibration-prone environments. |
Use Scenario: Protecting RS-485 driver/receiver pins in factory automation gateways exposed to lightning-induced surges on long cable runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable unidirectional diode (ground-referenced) on A/B lines to limit common-mode voltage excursions. Use Value: 200 W (10/1000 µs) rating handles repetitive 1 kV/2 Ω surges per IEC 61000-4-5; 1.08 mm height allows dense port-side layout. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ESD protection applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12A-E3/5A | Higher clamping voltage (23.2 V), larger SMA package (4.5 mm × 2.7 mm), 600 W peak power (10/1000 µs). | Better suited for higher-energy surges but adds 2.6× board area and 30% higher VC; less ideal for space-constrained USB/HDMI layouts. | Select SMAJ12A-E3/5A only when surge energy exceeds 200 W capability and PCB real estate permits larger footprint. |
| TPD2E001DRYR | 2-channel, 15 pF per line, 12 V VRWM, ±8 kV contact ESD, not AEC-Q101 qualified. | Optimized for ultra-low-capacitance high-speed interfaces (e.g., USB 3.0); lacks automotive qualification and high-energy surge rating. | Choose TPD2E001DRYR for consumer-grade high-frequency data lines where ESD level ≤ ±8 kV suffices and board space is extremely limited. |
Compared with SMAJ12A-E3/5A and TPD2E001DRYR, the SMF12A-HE3_A18 uniquely balances automotive qualification, compact DO-219AB packaging, 483 pF capacitance for mid-speed interfaces, and ±30 kV ESD immunity - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, and automotive-qualified 12 V signal protection.
Availability
SMF12A-HE3_A18 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB 2.0 interface protection, automotive sensor signal conditioning, and industrial RS-485 port hardening requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and full AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for SMF12A-HE3_A18 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 Semiconductors is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components for automotive, industrial, and computing markets.
The SMF series targets high-speed, space-constrained ESD protection applications with AEC-Q101 qualification, low-profile packaging, and precise clamping performance - engineered specifically for automotive infotainment, ADAS sensor interfaces, and industrial communication ports.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the SMF12A-HE3_A18 at its rated peak pulse current?
The SMF12A-HE3_A18 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 19.9 V at 10.1 A peak pulse current with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured under standardized surge conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during transient events. The SMF12A-HE3_A18 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range of –65 °C to +175 °C.
Is the SMF12A-HE3_A18 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the SMF12A-HE3_A18 is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for human body model (HBM) ESD > 8 kV (Class H3B). It also meets IEC 61000-4-2 ±30 kV contact and air discharge requirements. These qualifications confirm its suitability for automotive subsystems including infotainment, body control modules, and sensor interfaces where reliability under harsh environmental stress is mandatory. The SMF12A-HE3_A18 is explicitly listed in Vishay's AEC-Q101 qualified product matrix.
What is the junction capacitance of the SMF12A-HE3_A18 and how does it affect signal integrity?
The SMF12A-HE3_A18 exhibits a typical junction capacitance of 483 pF at 0 V and 1 MHz. This value represents the AC loading presented to the protected signal line and directly impacts rise/fall times and bandwidth. At this capacitance level, the SMF12A-HE3_A18 is well-suited for USB 2.0 (480 Mbps), RS-485, and HDMI 1.4 data rates, where signal integrity remains intact without requiring equalization or pre-emphasis. The SMF12A-HE3_A18 datasheet confirms no measurable eye diagram degradation in validated test setups.
Does the SMF12A-HE3_A18 have a unidirectional or bidirectional configuration?
The SMF12A-HE3_A18 is a unidirectional ESD protection diode, meaning it conducts only when the cathode is biased positively relative to the anode - i.e., during negative transients on the anode line referenced to ground. Its marking code "BE" and electrical characteristics table confirm single-polarity operation. For bidirectional protection, two SMF12A-HE3_A18 devices may be used in series opposition, though Vishay offers dedicated bidirectional variants (e.g., SMBJ12CA) for such use cases. The SMF12A-HE3_A18 itself is strictly unidirectional.
What is the package type and soldering compatibility of the SMF12A-HE3_A18?
The SMF12A-HE3_A18 uses the DO-219AB (SMF) package - a low-profile, surface-mount outline measuring 3.9 mm × 1.9 mm × 1.08 mm with gull-wing leads. It is fully compatible with both wave and lead-free reflow soldering processes, rated for peak temperatures up to 260 °C, and classified as MSL Level 1 (no floor life limitation). The SMF12A-HE3_A18 footprint matches SOD-123W land patterns, enabling drop-in replacement in existing designs using that outline.
SMF12A-HE3_A18 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay
- Package/Case:
- DO-219AB
- Series:
- eSMP®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 13.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 19.9V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 10.1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 200W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- 483pF @ 1MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 175°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-219AB (SMF)
SMF12A-HE3_A18 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMF12A-HE3_A18 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMF12A-HE3_A18 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 SMF12A-HE3_A18 reliable?
The price and inventory of SMF12A-HE3_A18 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMF12A-HE3_A18 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMF12A-HE3_A18?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMF12A-HE3_A18 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMF12A-HE3_A18?
SMF12A-HE3_A18 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMF12A-HE3_A18 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 SMF12A-HE3_A18?
For technical support, including SMF12A-HE3_A18 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMF12A-HE3_A18 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMF12A-HE3_A18 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMF12A-HE3_A18 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 SMF12A-HE3_A18 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMF12A-HE3_A18?
All SMF12A-HE3_A18 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMF12A-HE3_A18, 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 SMF12A-HE3_A18 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMF12A-HE3_A18:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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