STMicroelectronics SMP30-180

Overview

SMP30-180 from STMicroelectronics is a bidirectional Trisil™ thyristor surge protection device (SPD) designed for primary overvoltage crowbar clamping on telecom line interfaces. It features a 180 V stand-off voltage (VRM), 235 V dynamic breakover voltage (VBO), 12 mA minimum holding current (IH), 25 pF typical capacitance at 50 V, and 30 A repetitive peak pulse current (10/1000 µs). It is used in xDSL line cards and central office equipment to meet GR-1089 Core and ITU-T K20/K21 lightning immunity requirements.

For engineers reviewing the SMP30-180 datasheet, SMP30-180 pinout, SMP30-180 application, or SMP30-180 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical characteristics, JEDEC DO-214AC (SMA) package details, fail-safe short-circuit behavior under surge, UL497B and UL94 V0 compliance status, and telecom-specific standard alignment per IEC61000-4-5, FCC Part 68, and VDE0878.

Technical Context

The SMP30-180 operates as a voltage-triggered bidirectional thyristor, entering low-impedance conduction when transient voltage exceeds its 235 V dynamic breakover threshold. Its fail-safe short-circuit mode ensures robust protection without degradation over repeated surges.

It is optimized for telecom line interface protection where low capacitance (25 pF typ. @ 50 V) preserves signal integrity on analog/digital lines, and its 12 mA minimum holding current guarantees reliable latching until fault current drops below threshold - critical for sustained AC power-induced transients.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The SMP30-180 is housed in an SMA (DO-214AC) package with two terminals: anode and cathode. The device is symmetrical and bidirectional; either terminal may serve as anode or cathode depending on polarity of applied transient.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar telecom surge protection applications.

Compared with SMCJ180A and P6KE180A, the SMP30-180 provides bidirectional operation, guaranteed fail-safe shorting, UL497B listing, and sub-30 pF capacitance - making it uniquely suitable for certified telecom line card protection where signal integrity and regulatory compliance are mandatory.

Availability

SMP30-180 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for analog line cards, xDSL interface modules, central office equipment, and FCC Part 68 terminal devices requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for SMP30-180 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The SMP30 series belongs to ST's Trisil™ family of thyristor-based surge protectors, engineered specifically for fail-safe, bidirectional overvoltage clamping in telecom infrastructure and regulated-line equipment.

FAQ

What is the fail-safe behavior of SMP30-180 during surge overstress?

The SMP30-180 enters a permanent short-circuit state when subjected to surge energy exceeding its I²t rating (5.7 A²s at 16.6 ms), providing visible, detectable fault indication and preventing latent open-circuit failures. This behavior is validated per UL497B and supports system-level safety monitoring via current-sense circuits.

Does SMP30-180 require a series current-limiting resistor in telecom line applications?

Yes - a series resistor (typically 20–40 Ω) is required to limit follow current after triggering and ensure the device resets once surge energy dissipates. Table 1 specifies minimum resistor values (e.g., 26 Ω for FCC Part 68 Type A) to meet standard compliance without thermal runaway.

How does SMP30-180 compare to GDTs in telecom protection stacks?

Unlike gas discharge tubes (GDTs), the SMP30-180 offers faster response (<100 ns vs. >100 ns), lower capacitance (25 pF vs. 1–2 pF but with higher DC holdover), and no electrode wear-out mechanism. It is typically used as first-stage clamping ahead of GDTs to absorb initial energy and reduce GDT trigger stress.

Is SMP30-180 compatible with lead-free reflow soldering processes?

Yes - the SMA package is lead-free and rated for maximum lead temperature of 260 °C for 10 seconds, fully compliant with IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020D moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 1 and RoHS reflow profiles. ST confirms compatibility with standard SnAgCu (SAC305) soldering cycles.