Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPC18CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- TPC18CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPC18CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,373
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
TPC18CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional 1500 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in SMPC (TO-277A) package, designed for high-reliability automotive and industrial electronics protection. It features a standoff voltage of 15.3 V, breakdown voltage range of 17.1–18.9 V at 1 mA, clamping voltage of 25.2 V at 59.5 A, and AEC-Q101 qualification for under-hood applications.
For engineers reviewing the TPC18CAHM3/I datasheet, TPC18CAHM3/I pinout, TPC18CAHM3/I application, or TPC18CAHM3/I equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1500 W peak pulse power rating, bidirectional polarity, 185 °C maximum junction temperature, low-profile 1.1 mm height, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Technical Context
The TPC18CAHM3/I implements a junction-passivated PAR® design optimized for fast response to transients induced by inductive load switching or ESD events. Its bidirectional architecture enables symmetrical clamping on both polarities without external polarity management, supporting robust protection of signal lines and power rails in automotive sensor units and control modules.
Rated for operation from –65 °C to +185 °C and qualified per AEC-Q101, the device sustains high thermal stress while maintaining stable leakage (<1 μA at VWM) and precise clamping performance across temperature. Its TO-277A package supports automated placement and meets MSL Level 1 with 260 °C reflow peak.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15.3 V - Maximum reverse working voltage before conduction begins; defines safe operating margin for 12 V automotive systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown threshold ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 59.5 A - Clamping voltage limits downstream IC/MOSFET stress during 10/1000 μs surge pulses. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - Peak pulse power handling capability for transient suppression per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 compliance. |
| TJ max | +185 °C - Enables under-hood deployment without derating in engine control units and ADAS modules. |
| Polarity | Bidirectional - Eliminates need for polarity-aware layout; protects AC-coupled or differential signal paths. |
| Package | SMPC (TO-277A) - Low-profile 1.1 mm height, JEDEC-compliant footprint compatible with standard SMT assembly. |
Pinout & Package
SMPC (TO-277A) is a 2-terminal surface-mount package with no polarity marking. Terminals are matte tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102, and meet JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Shared terminal for symmetrical clamping; connects to protected line (e.g., CAN_H or LIN bus). |
| Terminal 2 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Shared terminal for symmetrical clamping; connects to reference plane (e.g., ground or battery return). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation (PAR®) | Reduces leakage drift and improves long-term stability under thermal cycling in automotive environments. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated reliability for automotive-grade deployment including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing. |
| MSL Level 1 | Enables single-pass reflow without moisture sensitivity concerns; no bake required prior to assembly. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS | Complies with automotive environmental standards and end-of-life material restrictions (Vishay Doc. 99912). |
| 1.1 mm typical height | Minimizes board space and profile in tight-fit modules such as radar sensors and body control units. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog and digital signal lines (e.g., Hall-effect, temperature, pressure sensors) from load dump and ISO 7637-2 transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS clamping element placed directly at connector interface or IC input pins. Use Value: Limits transient-induced latch-up or gate oxide damage in microcontrollers and signal conditioners using 25.2 V clamping at 59.5 A. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital I/O channels in programmable logic controllers against inductive kickback from solenoids and relays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-clamp protection device mounted adjacent to terminal blocks or optocoupler inputs. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by preventing field-induced failures with 1500 W surge capacity and <1 μA leakage at 15.3 V. |
| Automotive LIN Bus Protection | Consumer Power Adapter Input Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding LIN transceivers and microcontroller UART pins from ESD and coupled noise in door modules and seat controls. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional clamp integrated into LIN physical layer circuitry. Use Value: Preserves signal integrity with minimal loading due to inherent low junction capacitance and fast 1 ns response time. | Use Scenario: Front-end surge suppression in wall adapters and USB-C PD chargers exposed to AC line surges and hot-plug events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level TVS placed between bridge rectifier output and bulk capacitor. Use Value: Extends adapter lifetime by absorbing repetitive 1500 W pulses without degradation, validated over 1000+ surge 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ15CA-E3/5AT | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (higher profile, 2.3 mm), VWM = 15.0 V, VC = 24.4 V @ 24.4 A | Not AEC-Q101 qualified; suitable for consumer/industrial but not automotive under-hood use. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs automotive qualification and surge energy requirements are lower. |
| TPC18CAHM3/H | Identical electrical specs; differs only in tape-and-reel packaging (7" reel, 1500 pcs vs. 13" reel, 6500 pcs) | No functional difference; same PCB layout, thermal, and electrical behavior. | Choose based on production volume and SMT line feeder compatibility-not electrical performance. |
Compared with SMAJ15CA-E3/5AT, TPC18CAHM3/I delivers 275 % higher surge power handling and automotive qualification; compared with TPC18CAHM3/H, it offers identical protection performance with optimized logistics for high-volume automated assembly.
Availability
TPC18CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC I/O interfaces, and consumer power adapter designs requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and AEC-Q101-compliant surge protection.
Supply support for TPC18CAHM3/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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability and automotive-grade validation.
The TPC18CAHM3/I belongs to Vishay's PAR® TVS family, engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments where thermal stability, low leakage, and AEC-Q101 compliance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the TPC18CAHM3/I under a 10/1000 μs surge?
The TPC18CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 59.5 A under a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures downstream components like microcontrollers or transceivers remain within safe voltage limits during surge events. The clamping performance is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range up to +185 °C.
Is the TPC18CAHM3/I suitable for automotive under-hood applications?
Yes, the TPC18CAHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for junction temperatures up to +185 °C, making it suitable for under-hood automotive applications such as engine control units, transmission control modules, and radar sensor assemblies. Its halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance further support long-term reliability in thermally aggressive environments where the TPC18CAHM3/I is deployed.
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in TPC18CAHM3/I?
The "HM3" suffix in TPC18CAHM3/I denotes Vishay's halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101-qualified variant in the SMPC (TO-277A) package. The "I" indicates 13-inch tape-and-reel packaging with 6500 units per reel. This suffix distinguishes it from non-automotive variants and confirms compliance with automotive material and reliability standards documented in Vishay specification 99912.
How does the TPC18CAHM3/I compare to unidirectional TVS diodes in circuit design?
The TPC18CAHM3/I is bidirectional, enabling symmetrical clamping on both polarities without requiring orientation during placement-unlike unidirectional TVS diodes that must be aligned with circuit polarity. This simplifies layout, reduces BOM count, and eliminates risk of misorientation in differential or AC-coupled lines such as LIN, CAN, or audio interfaces where the TPC18CAHM3/I is commonly applied.
What is the leakage current specification for the TPC18CAHM3/I at its standoff voltage?
The TPC18CAHM3/I exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 μA at its standoff voltage (VWM) of 15.3 V and ambient temperature of 25 °C. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss in always-on automotive circuits and preserves battery life in sleep-mode applications where the TPC18CAHM3/I remains active across ignition cycles.
TPC18CAHM3/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:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- 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 ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-277A (SMPC)
TPC18CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPC18CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPC18CAHM3/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 TPC18CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of TPC18CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPC18CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPC18CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPC18CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPC18CAHM3/I?
TPC18CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPC18CAHM3/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 TPC18CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including TPC18CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPC18CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPC18CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPC18CAHM3/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 TPC18CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPC18CAHM3/I?
All TPC18CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPC18CAHM3/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 TPC18CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPC18CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPC18CAHM3/I 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 …

