Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division SMPC18A-M3/87A
- Part No.:
- SMPC18A-M3/87A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
SMPC18A-M3/87A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 18VWM 29.2VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,537
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
SMPC18A-M3/87A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in the eSMP® SMPC (TO-277A) package, designed for high-energy surge protection. It features a 18.0 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 20.0–22.1 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 29.2 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 1.0 A IPPM, 1500 W peak pulse power (PPPM), and operates from –55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature.
For engineers reviewing the SMPC18A-M3/87A datasheet, SMPC18A-M3/87A pinout, SMPC18A-M3/87A application, or SMPC18A-M3/87A equivalent, key selection considerations include clamping performance under 10/1000 μs transients, thermal resistance (RθJA ≤ 100 °C/W), unidirectional polarity marking, MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on FR4 PCBs.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a unidirectional avalanche clamp, triggered when reverse voltage exceeds VBR (20.0–22.1 V), limiting transient overvoltages to ≤29.2 V at 1.0 A peak pulse current. Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time enable effective suppression of inductive switching spikes and ESD events.
The SMPC18A-M3/87A uses a dual-anode/single-cathode configuration in the SMPC (TO-277A) package, with cathode denoted by a band. It is halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and rated for industrial-grade operation - not AEC-Q101 qualified (HM3 suffix required for automotive).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 18.0 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins |
| VBR @ IT = 1 mA | 20.0–22.1 V - guaranteed breakdown threshold defining turn-on precision |
| VC @ IPPM = 1.0 A | 29.2 V - clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge, directly limiting downstream IC stress |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak transient power handling capability per JEDEC standard waveform |
| RθJA | ≤100 °C/W - thermal resistance to ambient on standard 2 oz FR4 footprint, critical for power derating |
| Polarity | Unidirectional - protects against negative transients only; requires correct orientation in circuit |
| MSL Level | Level 1 (J-STD-020) - no floor life limitation; safe for reflow up to 260 °C peak |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMPC (TO-277A), surface-mount, 3-terminal, very low profile (1.1 mm typical height), matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 molding compound.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode 1 | Primary anode connection | One of two parallel anode terminals; enables low-inductance, high-current path to ground |
| Anode 2 | Secondary anode connection | Second parallel anode terminal; reduces total series resistance and improves surge current sharing |
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient voltage reference node | Connected to protected line; clamps to this node when Vreverse > VBR; band denotes cathode polarity |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Very low profile (1.1 mm) | Enables use in space-constrained consumer and portable electronics without compromising board clearance |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast transients, improving protection margin for sensitive MOSFETs and ICs |
| Excellent clamping capability (VC = 29.2 V @ 1.0 A) | Ensures protected circuitry remains below absolute maximum ratings during IEC 61000-4-5 surge events |
| Automated placement compatible | Standardized SMPC footprint and lead geometry support high-yield pick-and-place assembly |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant (M3 suffix) | Fulfills environmental compliance requirements for industrial and commercial end equipment |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus interface circuits and analog sensor signal lines (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and inductive kickback in 12 V vehicle subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between signal line and chassis ground to clamp negative-going transients before they reach the transceiver or ADC input. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤29.2 V, preserving integrity of 3.3 V/5 V logic interfaces and preventing latch-up in microcontrollers. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback, motor drive noise, and field wiring surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary front-end surge suppressor on 24 V DC input channels, mounted directly at connector entry point. Use Value: Absorbs 1500 W peak pulses without degradation, enabling reliable operation in harsh factory environments per IEC 61000-4-4/5 standards. |
| Telecom Power Supply Clamp | Consumer USB Port ESD Protection |
Use Scenario: Secondary overvoltage clamp on 48 V telecom power rails after primary DC/DC conversion, guarding against hot-swap transients and lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS (VWM = 18 V) used in series with higher-voltage rail clamps to provide staged protection hierarchy. Use Value: Fast response and low clamping voltage prevent overvoltage propagation into downstream PMICs and FPGAs during 10/1000 μs surges. | Use Scenario: Input-side transient suppression on USB 2.0 VBUS and D+/D− lines in set-top boxes and smart displays subjected to system-level ESD and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamp on VBUS line to absorb positive surges while allowing normal 5 V operation; cathode tied to VBUS, anodes to ground. Use Value: 1.1 mm height allows co-placement with USB connectors; MSL Level 1 ensures robustness through multiple reflow cycles. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18A-E3/5A (Vishay) | DO-214AC (SMA) package; 1.5 mm height; RθJA ≈ 140 °C/W; same VWM/VBR/VC specs | Higher thermal resistance limits power handling in compact layouts; less suitable for ultra-low-profile designs | Select SMAJ18A-E3/5A only if legacy SMA footprint is fixed and board height >1.5 mm is acceptable. |
| 1.5KE18A (Littelfuse) | DO-201AD axial package; through-hole; 5.1 mm height; 1500 W rating but slower response due to higher parasitic inductance | Not SMT-compatible; unsuitable for automated production or dense PCBs; requires manual assembly | Choose 1.5KE18A only for prototyping or low-volume through-hole systems where rework tolerance outweighs size constraints. |
Compared with SMAJ18A-E3/5A and 1.5KE18A, the SMPC18A-M3/87A delivers identical electrical protection performance in a 1.1 mm low-profile SMT package optimized for high-density, high-reliability automated manufacturing - making it the preferred choice for volume production of space-constrained industrial and telecom equipment.
Availability
SMPC18A-M3/87A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial PLC I/O protection, telecom power supply clamping, and consumer USB port ESD protection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for SMPC18A-M3/87A 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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The eSMP® Transient Voltage Suppressor family - including SMPC18A-M3/87A - is engineered for high-energy, low-profile surge protection in automotive, industrial, and communications infrastructure where board space, thermal performance, and automated assembly are critical.
FAQ
What is the exact package type and footprint compatibility of SMPC18A-M3/87A?
The SMPC18A-M3/87A uses the SMPC (TO-277A) package - a 3-terminal surface-mount outline conforming to JEDEC standards. Its footprint matches the standardized SMPC land pattern: 0.189" × 0.134" body, 0.049" lead width, and 0.084" nominal lead length. The /87A suffix indicates 13" tape-and-reel packaging with 6500 units per reel, fully compatible with standard SMT pick-and-place equipment.
Is SMPC18A-M3/87A AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive use?
No, SMPC18A-M3/87A is not AEC-Q101 qualified. It carries the industrial-grade M3 suffix. For automotive applications, Vishay specifies the HM3 suffix (e.g., SMPC18AHM3/87A), which is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified and marked with "HM3" in the ordering code. The SMPC18A-M3/87A is rated for industrial temperature range (–55 °C to +150 °C) but lacks the additional qualification testing required for automotive deployment.
What is the meaning of the cathode band and how should SMPC18A-M3/87A be oriented on the PCB?
The cathode band on SMPC18A-M3/87A identifies the cathode terminal - the side that connects to the protected line (e.g., VBUS or signal line). Anodes 1 and 2 must be connected to ground or low-impedance return. Correct orientation ensures unidirectional clamping: when the protected line goes negative relative to ground, the device avalanches and clamps. Reversal prevents protection and may cause failure under surge conditions.
How does SMPC18A-M3/87A perform under repeated surge stress?
The SMPC18A-M3/87A is rated for non-repetitive 10/1000 μs surges per Figure 3 in its datasheet. While it withstands single-event 1500 W pulses, repeated application near its PPPM limit accelerates degradation. For repetitive transient environments, derating per Figure 2 is required - e.g., at TA = 85 °C, maximum PPPM drops to ~750 W. Long-term reliability assumes adherence to specified surge duty cycle and thermal management on FR4 with 2 oz copper.
Can SMPC18A-M3/87A be used in bidirectional protection configurations?
No, SMPC18A-M3/87A is strictly unidirectional. It conducts only when the cathode is more positive than either anode. For bidirectional protection (e.g., AC lines or data lines with ± transients), two SMPC18A-M3/87A devices must be connected in series opposition, or a dedicated bidirectional TVS such as SMPC18CA-M3/87A (if available) must be selected. Using a single unidirectional device on AC signals will result in improper clamping or forward conduction.
SMPC18A-M3/87A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Series:
- TransZorb®, eSMP®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 18V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 20V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 51.4A
- 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:
- TO-277A (SMPC)
SMPC18A-M3/87A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SMPC18A-M3/87A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SMPC18A-M3/87A 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 SMPC18A-M3/87A reliable?
The price and inventory of SMPC18A-M3/87A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SMPC18A-M3/87A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SMPC18A-M3/87A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SMPC18A-M3/87A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SMPC18A-M3/87A?
SMPC18A-M3/87A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SMPC18A-M3/87A 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 SMPC18A-M3/87A?
For technical support, including SMPC18A-M3/87A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SMPC18A-M3/87A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SMPC18A-M3/87A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SMPC18A-M3/87A 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 SMPC18A-M3/87A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SMPC18A-M3/87A?
All SMPC18A-M3/87A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SMPC18A-M3/87A, 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 SMPC18A-M3/87A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SMPC18A-M3/87A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SMPC18A-M3/87A Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

