Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPC18AHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- TPC18AHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPC18AHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,322
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Product details
Overview
TPC18AHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500 W PAR® Transient Voltage Suppressor in TO-277A (SMPC) package, featuring breakdown voltage of 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA, clamping voltage of 25.2 V at 59.5 A peak pulse current, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability. It protects MOSFETs and ICs against inductive switching transients in engine control units and powertrain sensors.
For engineers reviewing the TPC18AHM3_A/I datasheet, TPC18AHM3_A/I pinout, TPC18AHM3_A/I application, or TPC18AHM3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional polarity, 185 °C junction temperature rating, low-profile 1.1 mm height, MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction per HM3 suffix.
Technical Context
This TVS diode employs passivated anisotropic rectifier technology to achieve low incremental surge resistance and fast response time under 1 ns. Its 1500 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs waveform) and 200 A non-repetitive forward surge current support robust protection in high-energy transient environments.
The device operates across -65 °C to +185 °C junction temperature range and meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker test requirements. Its TO-277A package enables automated placement and delivers stable clamping performance with <1.0 µA reverse leakage at 15.3 V stand-off voltage.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power | 1500 W - sustains 10/1000 µs transients without failure in automotive load-dump scenarios |
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA - defines precise conduction threshold for overvoltage triggering |
| Clamping Voltage VC | 25.2 V at 59.5 A - limits downstream voltage stress during surge events |
| Stand-off Voltage VWM | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 1 µA |
| Junction Temperature | -65 to +185 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive electronics without derating |
| Package | TO-277A (SMPC) - surface-mount, low-profile (1.1 mm height), AEC-Q101 qualified |
| Polarity | Unidirectional - protects DC-biased lines such as power rails and gate drivers |
Pinout & Package
TO-277A (SMPC) package: 3-terminal surface-mount case with cathode-anode-cathode configuration; matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102 solderability standards.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 (Cathode) | Reverse-biased terminal | Connected to protected line; conducts when voltage exceeds VBR |
| Terminal 2 (Anode) | Reference/ground connection | Tied to system ground or low-impedance return path for clamping current |
| Terminal 3 (Cathode) | Reverse-biased terminal | Electrically common with Terminal 1; enables dual-cathode layout for PCB routing flexibility |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation | Optimized anisotropic rectifier design ensures stable VBR and low leakage over lifetime |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including powertrain and body electronics |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Zero floor-life limitation - no baking required prior to reflow assembly |
| Low profile (1.1 mm) | Enables compact PCB layouts in space-constrained modules like ECU housings |
| Halogen-free & RoHS | HM3 suffix confirms compliance with environmental regulations and material categorization per Doc. 99912 |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial Motor Drive Gate Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller I/O and power supply rails from load-dump and alternator ripple transients in 12 V vehicle systems. IC Role / Device Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between MCU power input and chassis ground. Use Value: Clamps 1500 W surges to ≤25.2 V, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic circuits. |
Use Scenario: Shields IGBT gate drivers from Miller-induced voltage spikes during high-dV/dt switching in variable-frequency drives. IC Role / Device Role: TVS connected across gate-source terminals of power stage MOSFETs/IGBTs. Use Value: Sub-ns response time and 25.2 V clamping limit gate overvoltage below safe threshold for SiC and silicon devices. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Telecom Power Supply Input Protection |
Use Scenario: Safeguards LIN bus transceivers and LED driver ICs from ESD and relay-coil flyback in door module assemblies. IC Role / Device Role: TVS installed on 12 V input rail upstream of DC-DC converters and communication ICs. Use Value: 1.1 mm height allows integration into thin BCM enclosures while maintaining 185 °C thermal capability. |
Use Scenario: Guards primary-side rectifier and controller ICs in AC/DC adapters against lightning-induced surges on telecom infrastructure power feeds. IC Role / Device Role: Primary-side unidirectional TVS on bulk capacitor input node. Use Value: 1500 W rating and 59.5 A IPPM withstand repeated 6 kV/3 A surge tests per IEC 61000-4-5. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar unidirectional TVS protection applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18A-E3/5A (Vishay) | Same VBR range (17.1–18.9 V), but lower 400 W PPPM rating and SMA package (higher thermal resistance) | Limited to lower-energy transients; not AEC-Q101 qualified | Use where cost or legacy footprint matters more than automotive reliability or 1500 W surge handling |
| 1.5KE18A (ON Semiconductor) | Higher 1.5 kW rating but axial DO-201 package (not SMT); 25.2 V clamping same, but 185 °C TJ not guaranteed | Requires through-hole assembly; unsuitable for automated high-density PCBs | Select only for prototyping or non-automated production where board space and thermal cycling are not constraints |
Compared with SMAJ18A-E3/5A and 1.5KE18A, TPC18AHM3_A/I delivers higher surge robustness in a qualified automotive SMT package with superior thermal performance and zero moisture sensitivity-critical for volume automotive production.
Availability
TPC18AHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, industrial motor drives, and telecom power supplies requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q101 traceability and halogen-free compliance.
Supply support for TPC18AHM3_A/I 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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The TPC18AHM3_A/I belongs to Vishay's PAR® TVS family, engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments where AEC-Q101 qualification, 185 °C operation, and low-profile SMT packaging are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of TPC18AHM3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The TPC18AHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 59.5 A (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures protected circuitry remains below critical overvoltage thresholds during surge events. The TPC18AHM3_A/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is TPC18AHM3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, TPC18AHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for junction temperatures up to +185 °C, making it suitable for under-hood automotive applications including engine control units, body control modules, and ADAS power supplies. Its HM3 suffix confirms halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance-key requirements for automotive-grade components.
What does the "HM3" suffix mean in TPC18AHM3_A/I?
The "HM3" suffix in TPC18AHM3_A/I indicates halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction, AEC-Q101 qualification, and compliance with JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing. It also denotes TO-277A (SMPC) packaging with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002. The "A" denotes revision code; "I" specifies 13-inch tape-and-reel packaging (6500 units per reel).
How does TPC18AHM3_A/I compare to bidirectional TVS diodes?
TPC18AHM3_A/I is unidirectional and designed for DC-biased applications like power rails and gate drivers, offering lower leakage and tighter VBR tolerance than bidirectional equivalents. Unlike bidirectional TVS diodes, it does not conduct on negative transients-making it inappropriate for AC signal lines but optimal for protecting 12 V or 24 V automotive systems where polarity is fixed.
What is the moisture sensitivity level (MSL) rating for TPC18AHM3_A/I?
TPC18AHM3_A/I meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020, meaning it has unlimited floor life and requires no baking prior to reflow soldering. This eliminates handling complexity in high-volume SMT assembly and supports reliable first-pass yield in automotive electronics manufacturing where process control is critical.
TPC18AHM3_A/I 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:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15.3V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 25.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 59.5A
- 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)
TPC18AHM3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPC18AHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPC18AHM3_A/I 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 TPC18AHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of TPC18AHM3_A/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPC18AHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPC18AHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPC18AHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPC18AHM3_A/I?
TPC18AHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPC18AHM3_A/I 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 TPC18AHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including TPC18AHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPC18AHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPC18AHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPC18AHM3_A/I 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 TPC18AHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPC18AHM3_A/I?
All TPC18AHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPC18AHM3_A/I, 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 TPC18AHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPC18AHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPC18AHM3_A/I Tags

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ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

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DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

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DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
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