onsemi SZ1SMA16CAT3
- Part No.:
- SZ1SMA16CAT3
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
SZ1SMA16CAT3.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16VWM 26VC SMA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:30,000
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Product details
Overview
SZ1SMA16CAT3 from onsemi is a bidirectional 400 W peak power Zener transient voltage suppressor (TVS) designed to protect sensitive electronics against ESD and surge events. It features a 16 V working peak reverse voltage (VRWM), 26.0 V clamping voltage at 15.4 A peak pulse current, <1 ns response time, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use in power supply rail protection.
For engineers reviewing the SZ1SMA16CAT3 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include VRWM margin over operating voltage, clamping voltage vs. IC withstand rating, surge current capability under 10/1000 µs waveform, and Pb-free SURMETIC™ SMA package compatibility with automated SMT assembly.
Technical Context
This device operates as a bidirectional avalanche diode, conducting symmetrically during positive and negative transients. Its low zener impedance and fast sub-nanosecond response enable effective suppression of ESD (≥16 kV HBM) and lightning-induced surges without affecting normal signal integrity.
The SZ1SMA16CAT3 uses a planar junction structure in an SMA (DO-214AC) package with flat handling surface and top/bottom board mounting flexibility. Thermal resistance from junction-to-lead is 20 °C/W, supporting reliable 400 W pulse dissipation at TL = 25 °C with 1 ms pulse width.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Power | 400 W @ 1 ms 10/1000 µs waveform - sustains automotive load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulse 5a without failure |
| Working Peak Reverse Voltage (VRWM) | 16 V - selected to exceed nominal 12 V rail while maintaining sufficient margin before breakdown |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | 26.0 V @ 15.4 A IPP - ensures protected ICs with 30 V absolute max rating remain within safe operating limits |
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 17.8–19.67 V @ 1.0 mA IT - tight tolerance enables predictable turn-on behavior across temperature |
| Response Time | <1 ns - intercepts ESD events before propagation into downstream circuitry |
| Junction Capacitance | 375 pF @ 0 V - low enough for DC power rails; unsuitable for high-speed data lines |
| ESD Rating | Class 3 (>16 kV HBM) - meets IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 for system-level ESD immunity |
Pinout & Package
SMA (DO-214AC) package: surface-mount, molded plastic case (Case 403D-02), cathode indicated by band marking, flat handling surface, low profile (max height 2.20 mm), RoHS-compliant Pb-free construction.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current sink (negative half-cycle) | Connects to protected line; conducts when voltage falls below −VC during negative surge |
| Cathode | Transient current sink (positive half-cycle) | Connects to protected line; conducts when voltage exceeds +VC during positive surge |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC-coupled or dual-rail circuits without polarity constraints |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive under-hood and infotainment applications per stress test requirements |
| SURMETIC™ package reliability | Void-free transfer-molded construction ensures long-term moisture resistance and thermal cycling endurance |
| Flat handling surface | Improves pick-and-place accuracy and solder joint uniformity in high-volume SMT production |
| Top/bottom board mounting | Supports layout flexibility in space-constrained PCBs where component height or keep-out zones vary |
Applications
| Automotive Power Supply Protection | Industrial PLC Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 12 V battery rail in engine control units exposed to load dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamp placed between VBAT and GND to limit voltage excursions to ≤26 V. Use Value: Prevents damage to MCU, CAN transceivers, and analog sensors during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a events up to 400 W. | Use Scenario: Digital input module receiving 24 V DC signals from field sensors in harsh factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end transient suppressor on each input channel before optocoupler or level-shifter. Use Value: Absorbs repetitive EFT bursts (IEC 61000-4-4) and electrostatic discharges without degradation over 10⁵ surges. |
| Medical Equipment Power Rails | Telecom Power Interface |
Use Scenario: Auxiliary 5 V/12 V rails in portable ultrasound or patient monitor systems requiring Class III safety compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary overvoltage protection stage after primary DC/DC converter output filter. Use Value: Maintains low leakage (<2.5 µA at 16 V) to avoid battery drain while delivering 15.4 A surge current capability. | Use Scenario: -48 V telecom power feed interface subject to lightning-induced surges on outdoor plant equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge arrestor mounted at board edge before DC-DC conversion and regulation stages. Use Value: Clamps 10/1000 µs surges to 26 V with 400 W peak power handling, meeting Telcordia GR-1089-CORE requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SZ1SMA16AT3G | Same electrical specs and package; differs only in marking code (no 'C' suffix indicating bidirectional design confirmation) | No functional difference; both are bidirectional per datasheet family definition | Select SZ1SMA16CAT3 for explicit bidirectional marking traceability in automotive PPAP documentation |
| SMBJ16CA | Higher 600 W peak power, same VRWM and VC, but larger SMB (DO-214AA) package (4.57 mm width vs. 2.60 mm) | Requires PCB footprint redesign; better suited for higher-energy industrial surges where space allows | Choose SMBJ16CA only when 400 W margin is insufficient and board area permits larger package |
Compared with SZ1SMA16AT3G, the SZ1SMA16CAT3 provides identical protection performance with enhanced marking clarity for bidirectional operation; versus SMBJ16CA, it trades surge headroom for compactness-critical in dense automotive ECUs where SMA's 2.6 mm width saves >30% board area.
Availability
SZ1SMA16CAT3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power supply protection, industrial PLC input protection, medical equipment power rails, and telecom power interface applications requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 qualified parts.
Supply support for SZ1SMA16CAT3 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
onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier delivering energy-efficient, intelligent power and sensing solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, medical, and IoT applications.
The SZ1SMAxxCAT3 series belongs to onsemi's transient voltage suppressor product line, engineered specifically for robust, high-reliability overvoltage protection in automotive and industrial environments where AEC-Q101 compliance and surge resilience are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the SZ1SMA16CAT3 under standard test conditions?
The SZ1SMA16CAT3 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 26.0 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 15.4 A using the 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at TA = 25 °C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The SZ1SMA16CAT3 maintains this clamping performance across its specified operating temperature range, ensuring consistent protection in automotive and industrial deployments.
Is the SZ1SMA16CAT3 suitable for protecting a 12 V automotive power rail?
Yes, the SZ1SMA16CAT3 is explicitly designed for 12 V system protection. Its 16 V working peak reverse voltage (VRWM) provides adequate margin above nominal 12 V while staying well below typical 30 V IC absolute maximum ratings. Combined with 400 W peak power handling and AEC-Q101 qualification, the SZ1SMA16CAT3 meets ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a requirements for engine control unit power rails. The SZ1SMA16CAT3 is commonly deployed between VBAT and GND in automotive ECUs and body control modules.
Does the SZ1SMA16CAT3 have polarity markings, and how is it oriented on the PCB?
The SZ1SMA16CAT3 uses a cathode band marking on the SMA package body to indicate polarity. As a bidirectional device, this band does not define functional directionality-it simply aligns with the cathode terminal per standard diode convention. During PCB layout, the band must be matched to the silkscreen indicator; incorrect orientation does not impair bidirectional clamping but may conflict with schematic symbol conventions. The SZ1SMA16CAT3's flat handling surface supports accurate placement regardless of mounting side.
What is the junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RJL) specification for the SZ1SMA16CAT3?
The SZ1SMA16CAT3 has a thermal resistance from junction-to-lead (RJL) of 20 °C/W, measured under standard conditions (1 in² copper pad, FR-4 board). This parameter governs heat transfer from the silicon die to the PCB copper during high-energy transient events. When designing layouts for repeated surge duty, engineers should ensure adequate copper area and thermal vias to maintain junction temperature below 150 °C. The SZ1SMA16CAT3's RJL value enables reliable 400 W pulse dissipation at TL = 25 °C with proper board-level thermal management.
How does the SZ1SMA16CAT3 differ from unidirectional TVS diodes like the 1SMA16AT3?
The SZ1SMA16CAT3 is bidirectional, providing symmetrical clamping for both positive and negative transients, whereas unidirectional types like the 1SMA16AT3 conduct only in one direction and require correct polarity alignment. Both share identical VRWM (16 V), VC (26.0 V), and peak power (400 W), but the SZ1SMA16CAT3 eliminates polarity concerns in AC-coupled or floating signal paths. The "C" suffix in SZ1SMA16CAT3 explicitly denotes bidirectional configuration per onsemi's marking standard, distinguishing it from unidirectional variants in the same family.
SZ1SMA16CAT3 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package/Case:
- -
- Series:
- *
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- -
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- -
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- -
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- -
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- -
- Power Line Protection:
- -
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
SZ1SMA16CAT3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for SZ1SMA16CAT3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for SZ1SMA16CAT3 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 SZ1SMA16CAT3 reliable?
The price and inventory of SZ1SMA16CAT3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for SZ1SMA16CAT3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for SZ1SMA16CAT3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for SZ1SMA16CAT3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for SZ1SMA16CAT3?
SZ1SMA16CAT3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your SZ1SMA16CAT3 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 SZ1SMA16CAT3?
For technical support, including SZ1SMA16CAT3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your SZ1SMA16CAT3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that SZ1SMA16CAT3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All SZ1SMA16CAT3 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 SZ1SMA16CAT3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of SZ1SMA16CAT3?
All SZ1SMA16CAT3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with SZ1SMA16CAT3, 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 SZ1SMA16CAT3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for SZ1SMA16CAT3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
SZ1SMA16CAT3 Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

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D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

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D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

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DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
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