Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPC20AHM3_A/I
- Part No.:
- TPC20AHM3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPC20AHM3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,620
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Product details
Overview
TPC20AHM3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in TO-277A (SMPC) package, designed for high-reliability overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 19.0–21.0 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 17.1 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 27.7 V clamping voltage (VC) at 54.2 A peak pulse current, and operates up to +185 °C junction temperature - ideal for automotive power line and sensor interface protection.
For engineers reviewing the TPC20AHM3_A/I datasheet, TPC20AHM3_A/I pinout, TPC20AHM3_A/I application, or TPC20AHM3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, MSL Level 1 rating, low-profile 1.1 mm height, uni-directional clamping behavior, and compatibility with automated SMT placement on industrial and automotive PCBs.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses passivated anisotropic rectifier technology optimized for fast response (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance. Its unidirectional architecture provides forward-biased conduction during overvoltage events while maintaining tight VBR tolerance (±5 %) and stable clamping performance across temperature.
The device is rated for non-repetitive 10/1000 µs waveform surges up to 1500 W and supports 200 A peak forward surge current (IFSM). Its TO-277A (SMPC) package delivers thermal robustness with RthJA optimized via 2 oz copper PCB mounting per JEDEC standards.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 19.0 V / 21.0 V - ensures reliable triggering above normal operating voltage without false clamping |
| VWM | 17.1 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage compatible with 16 V automotive systems |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V at 54.2 A - limits downstream voltage stress during 10/1000 µs transients |
| PPPM | 1500 W - handles high-energy load dump and inductive switching surges |
| TJ max. | +185 °C - enables under-hood automotive deployment without derating |
| Package | TO-277A (SMPC) - 3-pin surface-mount package with 1.1 mm profile and matte tin-plated terminals |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - certified for automotive-grade reliability per stress test requirements |
Pinout & Package
TO-277A (SMPC) is a 3-terminal surface-mount package with cathode-anode-cathode configuration. The package measures 4.80 × 3.70 × 1.10 mm (L × W × H) and features a low-profile, high-thermal-conductivity molded compound meeting UL 94 V-0.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Cathode) | Reverse-biased terminal | Connected to protected line; conducts when voltage exceeds VBR |
| 2 (Anode) | Reference/ground node | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return path for clamping |
| 3 (Cathode) | Reverse-biased terminal | Electrically identical to Pin 1; enables dual-cathode layout for balanced current sharing |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation | Optimized anisotropic rectifier design improves long-term stability under thermal cycling |
| MSL Level 1 | Zero floor life limitation - supports unlimited exposure before reflow soldering |
| Low profile (1.1 mm) | Enables use in space-constrained modules such as ADAS camera ECUs and battery management sensors |
| Automated placement compatibility | Matte tin-plated leads meet J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 for consistent solder wetting |
| Whisker resistance | HM3 suffix passes JESD 201 Class 2 whisker testing - critical for automotive longevity |
Applications
| Automotive Power Line Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply rails in engine control units against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load dump transients. IC Role / Device Role: Primary clamping element placed between battery input and DC-DC converter input stage. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤27.7 V, preventing damage to downstream PMICs and microcontrollers rated for 30 V absolute max. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs of pressure/temperature sensors connected to PLC I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role: Reverse-polarity and ESD/transient suppressor on 4–20 mA or 0–10 V signal lines. Use Value: Clamps induced surges from nearby motor switching while maintaining <1.0 μA leakage at 17.1 V for signal integrity. |
| Automotive Lighting Driver Protection | Telecom Power Supply Input Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding LED driver ICs in headlamp modules from inductive kickback during PWM dimming. IC Role / Device Role: Uni-directional TVS placed across MOSFET drain-source to absorb flyback energy. Use Value: Withstands 200 A IFSM, enabling robust protection without derating in high-current lighting applications. |
Use Scenario: Guarding primary-side inputs of telecom AC/DC adapters against lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5. IC Role / Device Role: First-line transient suppressor on AC input bridge output or DC bus before PFC stage. Use Value: Delivers 1500 W peak power handling with 27.7 V clamping - reduces need for secondary MOV stages. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar unidirectional TVS protection 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 for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where 1500 W surge margin is not required |
| TPC22AHM3_A/I | VBR = 20.9–23.1 V, VWM = 18.8 V, VC = 30.6 V at 49.0 A - higher clamping threshold | Better suited for 18–20 V nominal systems (e.g., dual-battery trucks) requiring tighter VWM/VBR margin | Select when protecting circuits with higher steady-state voltage tolerance and needing lower leakage at elevated temperature |
Compared with SMAJ20A and TPC22AHM3_A/I, the TPC20AHM3_A/I offers optimal balance of 17.1 V VWM, 27.7 V clamping, and 1500 W surge capacity for 12 V automotive systems - delivering superior protection margin without overdesign or unnecessary cost.
Availability
TPC20AHM3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial sensor interface development, and telecom power supply hardening requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for TPC20AHM3_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, thermal performance, and automotive qualification.
The TPC series was developed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh automotive environments, combining AEC-Q101 compliance, 185 °C operation, and low-profile SMPC packaging for next-generation vehicle electronics.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the TPC20AHM3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The TPC20AHM3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 54.2 A under a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures predictable voltage limiting during surge events, directly protecting downstream components like microcontrollers and power management ICs connected to the same rail.
Is the TPC20AHM3_A/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the TPC20AHM3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for operation up to +185 °C junction temperature, making it fully suitable for under-hood automotive applications including engine control units, body control modules, and lighting drivers. Its TO-277A package meets JEDEC standards and supports automated SMT assembly in high-volume automotive manufacturing lines.
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in TPC20AHM3_A/I?
The "HM3" suffix in TPC20AHM3_A/I denotes halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction with matte tin-plated terminals that pass JESD 201 Class 2 whisker testing. It also confirms AEC-Q101 qualification and compliance with Vishay's material categorization standard (doc# 99912), ensuring suitability for long-life automotive and industrial deployments.
How does the dual-cathode configuration of the TPC20AHM3_A/I improve performance?
The TO-277A package of the TPC20AHM3_A/I features two cathode terminals (Pins 1 and 3) electrically tied together internally. This configuration allows symmetrical PCB layout, improved current sharing during high-amplitude transients, and reduced parasitic inductance compared to single-cathode packages - resulting in faster response and lower effective clamping impedance.
What is the maximum reverse leakage current of the TPC20AHM3_A/I at 17.1 V and 150 °C?
At 17.1 V (VWM) and +150 °C junction temperature, the TPC20AHM3_A/I exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 10 μA. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss and signal interference in always-on automotive subsystems such as CAN transceivers and sensor bias networks, even under elevated thermal stress.
TPC20AHM3_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):
- 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_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPC20AHM3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPC20AHM3_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 TPC20AHM3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of TPC20AHM3_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 TPC20AHM3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPC20AHM3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPC20AHM3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPC20AHM3_A/I?
TPC20AHM3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPC20AHM3_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 TPC20AHM3_A/I?
For technical support, including TPC20AHM3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPC20AHM3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPC20AHM3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPC20AHM3_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 TPC20AHM3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPC20AHM3_A/I?
All TPC20AHM3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPC20AHM3_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 TPC20AHM3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPC20AHM3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPC20AHM3_A/I Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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