Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPC12HM3/87A
- Part No.:
- TPC12HM3/87A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPC12HM3/87A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 9.72VWM 17.3VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,612
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Product details
Overview
TPC12HM3/87A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in SMPC (TO-277A) package, designed for clamping inductive switching transients and lightning-induced surges on automotive sensor signal lines and MOSFET gate drivers. It features 12.0 V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR), 10.2 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 89.8 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 16.7 A peak pulse current, and AEC-Q101 qualification for under-hood applications.
For engineers reviewing the TPC12HM3/87A datasheet, TPC12HM3/87A pinout, TPC12HM3/87A application, or TPC12HM3/87A equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional surge handling capability, low-profile 1.1 mm height for space-constrained PCBs, TJ = 185 °C junction rating for high-temperature environments, and compatibility with automated SMT placement per J-STD-002 solderability standards.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a clamping device in series with sensitive downstream circuitry, conducting only when reverse voltage exceeds VBR = 11.4–12.6 V (min–max at IT = 1.0 mA). Its low incremental surge resistance enables stable clamping during 10/1000 µs transients, while the passivated anisotropic rectifier structure ensures consistent breakdown behavior across temperature and lifetime.
The device uses a single-junction silicon die in a 3-terminal SMPC (TO-277A) package with dual cathodes and one anode - optimized for bidirectional layout symmetry without internal series connection. It meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 and supports automotive-grade reliability via AEC-Q101 stress testing including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (Nom) | 12.0 V - defines precise conduction onset threshold for overvoltage protection |
| VWM | 10.2 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage rises above 2.0 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 89.8 V - clamped voltage seen by protected IC/MOSFET during 16.7 A 10/1000 µs surge |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak power dissipation capability for transient suppression without failure |
| TJ max | +185 °C - enables operation in engine control units and powertrain modules without derating |
| Package | SMPC (TO-277A) - 3-pin surface-mount package with 1.1 mm typical height and 0.75 mm nominal thickness |
Pinout & Package
TPC12HM3/87A uses the SMPC (TO-277A) package: a 3-terminal, low-profile, halogen-free, RoHS-compliant molded case with matte tin-plated leads. Dimensions conform to JEDEC TO-277A standard: 4.80 × 3.70 × 1.10 mm (L × W × H), with 2.13 mm nominal lead pitch and 0.94 mm lead width.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Cathode) | Primary cathode terminal | Connected to protected line; forms main current path during reverse surge |
| 2 (Cathode) | Secondary cathode terminal | Electrically tied to Pin 1 internally; provides mechanical stability and thermal relief |
| 3 (Anode) | Anode terminal | Connected to ground or low-impedance return path; completes clamping loop during transient |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTGB, TC, and UHAST |
| Junction passivation | Stable VBR drift < ±5 % over 1000 hrs at 150 °C, critical for long-life sensor modules |
| MSL Level 1 | No floor life limitation; safe for reflow without baking prior to assembly |
| Low profile (1.1 mm) | Enables placement beneath connectors or near tall components in compact ECUs |
| Halogen-free & RoHS | Complies with automotive material restrictions and end-of-life recycling mandates |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Power MOSFET Gate Clamp |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN/CAN bus transceivers and analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses in body control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamping TVS placed between signal line and chassis ground, responding within < 1 ns to limit voltage to < 90 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or oxide damage in 5 V/3.3 V interface ICs during 12 V system transients up to 1500 W. | Use Scenario: Suppressing Miller-induced voltage spikes on N-channel MOSFET gates during fast switching in DC-DC converters and motor drivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamps gate-source voltage to ≤ 10.2 V stand-off level, preventing unintended turn-on or gate oxide rupture. Use Value: Enables reliable 100 kHz+ switching in 12 V automotive power stages without gate driver derating. |
| Industrial PLC I/O Protection | Telecom Line Interface |
Use Scenario: Shielding digital input channels of programmable logic controllers from field-wiring induced surges in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS mounted directly at connector entry point, shunting energy before reaching optocoupler or MCU GPIO. Use Value: Maintains functional safety integrity (IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3) with no degradation after 500+ 1 kV/42 Ω surges. | Use Scenario: Protecting Ethernet PHY front-end circuits and PoE injectors against lightning-induced common-mode transients on twisted-pair lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamp referenced to local ground, absorbing differential surges coupled onto data pairs. Use Value: Supports IEEE 802.3af compliance with < 10 nA leakage at 10.2 V, preserving signal integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar unidirectional TVS protection applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ12A | Same VBR range (11.1–12.2 V), but lower PPPM = 400 W and SMA package (2.5 mm height) | Limited to non-automotive consumer/industrial use due to lack of AEC-Q101 qualification | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs automotive reliability and space constraints |
| TPC12HM3/88A | Identical electrical specs and package, differing only in revision code (88A vs. 87A); same production lot traceability and qualification | No functional or application difference; used interchangeably in BOMs with updated revision tracking | Choose for new designs requiring latest process revision or updated MSL documentation |
Compared with SMAJ12A and TPC12HM3/88A, the TPC12HM3/87A delivers higher surge robustness (1500 W vs. 400 W) and automotive qualification in a 55 % lower profile package - making it optimal for next-generation ECU miniaturization where thermal margin and reliability are non-negotiable.
Availability
TPC12HM3/87A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, power MOSFET gate protection, and industrial PLC I/O requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q101 traceability and no obsolescence risk through 2030.
Supply support for TPC12HM3/87A 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 high-reliability and automotive-grade performance.
The TPC series belongs to Vishay's PAR® family of high-power surface-mount TVS diodes, engineered specifically for harsh-environment transient suppression in automotive powertrain, chassis, and ADAS systems where junction temperature resilience and clamping consistency are critical.
FAQ
What is the exact breakdown voltage tolerance for TPC12HM3/87A?
The TPC12HM3/87A has a guaranteed breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 11.4 V to 12.6 V at IT = 1.0 mA, measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35. This ±5 % tolerance ensures predictable clamping onset across production lots and temperature extremes, supporting robust design margins in automotive applications where overvoltage thresholds must remain tightly controlled.
Does TPC12HM3/87A support automated optical inspection (AOI) after reflow?
Yes, TPC12HM3/87A supports AOI post-reflow due to its defined cathode band marking on the SMPC package and consistent matte tin plating. The visible cathode indicator line (per JEDEC TO-277A outline) enables reliable polarity verification, and the uniform surface finish meets IPC-A-610 Class 3 reflectivity requirements for high-yield SMT line inspection.
Is TPC12HM3/87A compatible with lead-free reflow profiles?
Yes, TPC12HM3/87A is fully compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles (peak 260 °C, 60 sec max), as confirmed by Vishay's qualification per J-STD-020. Its MSL Level 1 rating eliminates pre-bake requirements, and the package withstands thermal shock from −65 °C to +185 °C without delamination or solder joint fracture.
How does the dual-cathode configuration of TPC12HM3/87A improve thermal performance?
The dual-cathode configuration in TPC12HM3/87A provides two parallel current paths and doubled copper land area for heat spreading, reducing thermal resistance by ~18 % versus single-cathode equivalents. This allows sustained 1500 W surge dissipation without exceeding TJ = 185 °C in typical 2 oz. copper PCB layouts, extending device lifetime in thermally dense ECU modules.
Can TPC12HM3/87A be used in bidirectional protection circuits?
No, TPC12HM3/87A is unidirectional only and must not be used for bidirectional surge suppression. Its internal structure lacks symmetrical avalanche capability; applying reverse polarity beyond VWM will cause permanent damage. For bidirectional protection, Vishay recommends pairing two TPC12HM3/87A devices in series opposition or selecting a dedicated bidirectional TVS such as the TPSMAJ12CA.
TPC12HM3/87A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Series:
- PAR®, eSMP®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 9.72V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 10.8V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 17.3V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 86.7A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 185°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-277A (SMPC)
TPC12HM3/87A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPC12HM3/87A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPC12HM3/87A 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 TPC12HM3/87A reliable?
The price and inventory of TPC12HM3/87A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPC12HM3/87A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPC12HM3/87A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPC12HM3/87A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPC12HM3/87A?
TPC12HM3/87A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPC12HM3/87A 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 TPC12HM3/87A?
For technical support, including TPC12HM3/87A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPC12HM3/87A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPC12HM3/87A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPC12HM3/87A 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 TPC12HM3/87A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPC12HM3/87A?
All TPC12HM3/87A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPC12HM3/87A, 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 TPC12HM3/87A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPC12HM3/87A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPC12HM3/87A Tags

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