Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPC20AHM3/87A
- Part No.:
- TPC20AHM3/87A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPC20AHM3/87A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,088
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Product details
Overview
TPC20AHM3/87A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in SMPC (TO-277A) package, designed for high-reliability automotive and industrial circuit protection. It features a 20.0 V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR), 17.1 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 27.7 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 54.2 A peak pulse current, and operates up to +185 °C junction temperature.
For engineers reviewing the TPC20AHM3/87A datasheet, TPC20AHM3/87A pinout, TPC20AHM3/87A application, or TPC20AHM3/87A equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional surge capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, low-profile 1.1 mm height, MSL Level 1 rating, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on power rails and sensor signal lines.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses passivated anisotropic rectifier technology optimized for fast response (<300 μs pulse width) and low incremental surge resistance. Its unidirectional architecture provides robust forward conduction during overvoltage events while maintaining tight leakage control (≤1.0 μA at VWM and ≤10 μA at 150 °C).
The device is rated for 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs waveform), supports 200 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine), and delivers 3.5 V maximum forward voltage at 100 A - enabling effective clamping of inductive switching transients in automotive power electronics.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (Nominal) | 20.0 V - ensures reliable triggering above normal operating voltage of 17.1 V rail |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V - limits downstream IC voltage stress during 54.2 A transient event |
| PPPM | 1500 W - handles high-energy surges from inductive load switching |
| TJ max. | +185 °C - supports under-hood automotive environments without derating |
| Package | SMPC (TO-277A) - 3-pin surface-mount with cathode-anode-cathode layout and 1.1 mm profile |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive-grade reliability per stress test requirements |
| MSL Level | Level 1 - no floor life limitation; compatible with standard reflow profiles |
Pinout & Package
TPC20AHM3/87A is housed in the SMPC (TO-277A) package: a 3-terminal, low-profile surface-mount case with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 molding compound, and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance. Dimensions: 4.80 × 4.40 × 1.10 mm (L × W × H), with recommended PCB pad layout per JEDEC TO-277A standard.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Cathode) | Cathode connection | Connected to protected line; forms reverse-biased junction with Anode during normal operation |
| 2 (Anode) | Anode connection | Connected to ground or low-impedance return path; enables clamping when VPROT exceeds VBR |
| 3 (Cathode) | Cathode connection | Parallel cathode terminal for enhanced current sharing and thermal distribution in high-surge applications |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation | Optimized anisotropic rectifier process ensures stable VBR and low leakage across temperature |
| Clamping performance | 27.7 V clamping at 54.2 A enables protection of 24 V systems with margin below 30 V IC absolute max ratings |
| Automated assembly support | 1.1 mm typical height and MSL Level 1 rating allow direct integration into high-volume SMT lines without dry-pack handling |
| High-temperature operation | +185 °C TJ max. eliminates need for thermal derating in engine control units and battery management modules |
| Automotive qualification | AEC-Q101 compliance confirms robustness against mechanical shock, temperature cycling, and humidity exposure |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 24 V supply lines in engine control units (ECUs) from load dump and inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamp placed between battery rail and DC-DC input stage. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤27.7 V, preventing damage to downstream PMICs and microcontrollers rated for 30 V absolute maximum. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation PLCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-entry protection on 0–10 V or 4–20 mA signal lines exposed to EMI and cable discharge. Use Value: Sub-300 ns response time and <1.0 μA leakage at 17.1 V preserve signal integrity and measurement accuracy. |
| Telecom DC Power Interface | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding PoE-powered network switches from lightning-induced surges on 48 V DC input. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression before DC-DC conversion and Ethernet PHY power conditioning. Use Value: 1500 W peak power rating absorbs multi-kV transients without degradation, supporting ITU-T K.20/21 compliance. | Use Scenario: Suppressing back-EMF spikes from brushed DC motors in smart home appliances. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional-capable layout using two TPC20AHM3/87A devices in series-anti-parallel configuration. Use Value: Dual-cathode structure allows symmetrical mounting and balanced thermal dissipation during repetitive motor commutation events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20A | Lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (higher thermal resistance), VC = 32.4 V at 12.3 A | Not AEC-Q101 qualified; limited to commercial-grade consumer/industrial use | Choose SMAJ20A only if surge energy is ≤400 W and automotive qualification is not required. |
| TPC22AHM3/87A | Higher VBR (22.0 V), VWM = 18.8 V, VC = 30.6 V at 49.0 A, same package and qualification | Better suited for 28 V nominal systems where 20 V VWM would cause excessive leakage or false triggering | Select TPC22AHM3/87A when protecting circuits with higher steady-state rail voltages or tighter VWM/VBR margin requirements. |
Compared with SMAJ20A and TPC22AHM3/87A, the TPC20AHM3/87A offers superior surge handling (1500 W vs. 400 W) and automotive qualification absent in SMAJ20A, while providing lower clamping voltage than TPC22AHM3/87A for tighter 24 V system protection margins.
Availability
TPC20AHM3/87A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom DC power supplies, and consumer appliance motor drives requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for TPC20AHM3/87A 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 MOSFETs with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The TPC series is part of Vishay's PAR® transient voltage suppressor family, engineered specifically for high-energy, high-temperature automotive and industrial protection where AEC-Q101 compliance and 185 °C operation are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the TPC20AHM3/87A at its rated peak pulse current?
The TPC20AHM3/87A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 54.2 A (10/1000 μs waveform). This value is measured under standardized test conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The TPC20AHM3/87A maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range, supporting robust design margin in 24 V systems.
Is the TPC20AHM3/87A suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the TPC20AHM3/87A is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for junction temperatures up to +185 °C, making it suitable for under-hood and powertrain applications including engine control units, battery management systems, and ADAS power supplies. Its SMPC (TO-277A) package meets automotive assembly standards, and its halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction aligns with automotive material requirements. The TPC20AHM3/87A is explicitly listed in Vishay's automotive-grade TVS portfolio.
What does the 'HM3/87A' suffix indicate in TPC20AHM3/87A?
The 'HM3' denotes Vishay's halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101-qualified base package code for the SMPC (TO-277A) outline, while '/87A' specifies the revision level and tape-and-reel packaging configuration (7-inch reel, 1500 units per reel). This suffix confirms compliance with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity - critical for automotive manufacturing. The TPC20AHM3/87A marking code is 'EGP' per Vishay's ordering matrix.
How does the dual-cathode configuration of the TPC20AHM3/87A improve performance?
The TPC20AHM3/87A features a three-terminal SMPC (TO-277A) package with Cathode-Anode-Cathode pinout, enabling symmetric current distribution and reduced thermal resistance during high-current transients. This layout improves surge current sharing and enhances power dissipation capability compared to standard two-terminal TVS diodes. In practice, the dual-cathode structure allows the TPC20AHM3/87A to sustain repeated 1500 W pulses with minimal parameter drift - a key advantage in motor drive and power supply protection.
Can the TPC20AHM3/87A be used in bidirectional protection configurations?
No, the TPC20AHM3/87A is unidirectional only, as confirmed in Vishay's datasheet features and electrical characteristics table. For bidirectional protection, two TPC20AHM3/87A devices may be connected in series-anti-parallel (anode-to-anode), but this requires careful PCB layout and doubles component count. Dedicated bidirectional alternatives like the TPD20AHM3/87A are not offered in this family; users requiring true bidirectional clamping should evaluate Vishay's TPSMxxA series or equivalent solutions. The TPC20AHM3/87A must be oriented correctly with cathodes toward the protected line.
TPC20AHM3/87A 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):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 19V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 27.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 54.2A
- 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)
TPC20AHM3/87A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPC20AHM3/87A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPC20AHM3/87A 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 TPC20AHM3/87A reliable?
The price and inventory of TPC20AHM3/87A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPC20AHM3/87A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPC20AHM3/87A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPC20AHM3/87A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPC20AHM3/87A?
TPC20AHM3/87A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPC20AHM3/87A 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 TPC20AHM3/87A?
For technical support, including TPC20AHM3/87A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPC20AHM3/87A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPC20AHM3/87A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPC20AHM3/87A 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 TPC20AHM3/87A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPC20AHM3/87A?
All TPC20AHM3/87A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPC20AHM3/87A, 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 TPC20AHM3/87A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPC20AHM3/87A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPC20AHM3/87A Tags

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