Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPC20CAHM3/I
- Part No.:
- TPC20CAHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- TO-277, 3-PowerDFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPC20CAHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC TO277A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TPC20CAHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional 1500 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) in a surface-mount SMPC (TO-277A) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on automotive sensor signal lines and power rails. It features a 19.0–21.0 V 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 AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
For engineers reviewing the TPC20CAHM3/I datasheet, TPC20CAHM3/I pinout, TPC20CAHM3/I application, or TPC20CAHM3/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 matte tin-plated leads.
Technical Context
The TPC20CAHM3/I employs Vishay's PAR® (Protected Avalanche Rectifier) junction passivation technology to deliver stable avalanche breakdown and low leakage (<1 μA at VWM). Its bidirectional architecture enables symmetrical clamping without polarity sensitivity, making it suitable for AC-coupled or floating signal paths.
Rated for 10/1000 μs surge waveforms per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, the device maintains clamping performance across -65 °C to +185 °C operating junction temperature, with derating applied above 25 °C ambient per Fig. 2. It meets MSL Level 1 per J-STD-020 and passes JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 19.0 V / 21.0 V - ensures reliable avalanche conduction onset within tight tolerance for predictable transient suppression |
| VWM | 17.1 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before significant leakage, compatible with 12 V automotive systems |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V - clamping voltage at 54.2 A pulse, limiting downstream IC stress during ISO 7637-2 load dump events |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak pulse power handling capability under standardized 10/1000 μs waveform |
| IPPM | 54.2 A - maximum non-repetitive surge current the device can safely divert without failure |
| TJ max | +185 °C - extended junction temperature rating enabling placement near high-power components in engine bay modules |
| Leakage (ID) | <1.0 μA @ VWM - minimal standby current draw critical for always-on automotive electronics |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMPC (TO-277A), surface-mount, 2-terminal, bidirectional configuration with no polarity marking. Dimensions: 4.80 × 3.70 × 1.10 mm (L × W × H), compliant with JEDEC TO-277A outline and UL 94 V-0 molding compound.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Either terminal serves as input/output path; symmetric structure eliminates orientation dependency during automated placement |
| Terminal 2 | Anode/Cathode (bidirectional) | Paired with Terminal 1 to form a single bidirectional clamping node across protected line and ground or differential pair |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation PAR® design | Enables stable, repeatable avalanche behavior over lifetime and temperature, reducing parameter drift in harsh environments |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including powertrain, body control, and ADAS sensor interfaces per stress test requirements |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Allows unlimited floor life and reflow at 260 °C peak, simplifying SMT integration without dry pack or baking |
| 1.1 mm typical height | Minimizes board profile for space-constrained modules such as camera ECUs and radar front-ends |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets global environmental compliance mandates without compromising thermal or electrical performance |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial CAN Bus Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN/CAN transceiver inputs and analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from ESD and load dump in vehicle door modules and seat controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed between signal line and ground to clamp transients while preserving signal integrity. Use Value: With 27.7 V clamping at 54.2 A and <1 μA leakage, TPC20CAHM3/I prevents latch-up in 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs without loading the bus. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485/CAN FD physical layer transceivers against induced surges in factory automation PLC backplanes and motor drive feedback loops. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff protection element shunting fast-rising transients away from PHY pins during cable hot-plug or lightning-induced coupling. Use Value: 1500 W peak power rating and 185 °C TJ rating ensure sustained operation in unventilated enclosures with ambient temperatures up to 125 °C. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input | Telecom DC Power Feeding |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage protection on 12 V/24 V DC-DC converter outputs powering smart home hubs and IP cameras. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamping component placed across output rail to absorb switching spikes and cross-regulation overshoot. Use Value: 17.1 V VWM aligns with 12 V nominal systems with 20 % tolerance, while low 1.1 mm profile avoids interference with adjacent magnetics. | Use Scenario: Surge protection on -48 V DC feeding lines for remote radio units (RRUs) and small cell base stations exposed to outdoor grounding transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional suppressor bridging feed line to chassis ground to handle both positive and negative polarity surges per IEC 61000-4-5. Use Value: AEC-Q101 qualification provides proven robustness for long-life telecom infrastructure deployments beyond standard industrial requirements. |
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-E3/5AT | Unidirectional; 20 V VWM; 32.4 V VC @ 46.3 A; SMA package (higher profile, lower PPPM = 400 W) | Requires explicit polarity assignment; unsuitable for AC or floating lines without external diode pairing | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs bidirectionality and higher surge margin is not required |
| TPC22CAHM3/I | Bidirectional; 20.9–23.1 V VBR; 18.8 V VWM; 30.6 V VC @ 49.0 A; identical SMPC package and AEC-Q101 qualification | Higher clamping voltage and lower VWM, better suited for 24 V systems than 12 V | Choose for 24 V automotive subsystems where tighter VWM/VBR margin is needed over 12 V rails |
Compared with SMAJ20A-E3/5AT and TPC22CAHM3/I, the TPC20CAHM3/I offers optimal balance of 17.1 V standoff, 27.7 V clamping, and 1500 W surge capacity in a low-profile automotive-qualified package-making it ideal for 12 V signal-line protection where bidirectionality and space constraints are critical.
Availability
TPC20CAHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial CAN bus nodes, and telecom DC power feeding requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q101-compliant reliability.
Supply support for TPC20CAHM3/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 high-reliability, automotive-qualified components.
The TPCxxCA series belongs to Vishay's PAR® TVS family, engineered specifically for robust transient suppression in automotive and industrial environments where high-temperature operation, low leakage, and bidirectional symmetry are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the TPC20CAHM3/I under rated surge conditions?
The TPC20CAHM3/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V when subjected to its rated 54.2 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and guarantees predictable voltage limiting during transient events, ensuring downstream 3.3 V or 5 V ICs remain within safe operating limits. The TPC20CAHM3/I achieves this while maintaining sub-1 μA leakage at 17.1 V stand-off.
Is the TPC20CAHM3/I suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the TPC20CAHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly designed for automotive use, including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules. Its 185 °C maximum junction temperature, MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and halogen-free RoHS-compliant construction meet stringent automotive reliability requirements. The TPC20CAHM3/I appears in Vishay's automotive ordering code list with the HM3 suffix, confirming its qualification status.
What does the "HM3" suffix indicate in TPC20CAHM3/I?
The "HM3" suffix in TPC20CAHM3/I denotes Vishay's automotive-grade variant: halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified, and tested to JESD201 Class 2 for tin whisker resistance. It also specifies the packaging format-I indicates 13-inch tape-and-reel with 6500 units per reel. The HM3 designation confirms full compliance with automotive manufacturing and reliability standards, distinguishing it from commercial-grade variants.
How does the bidirectional nature of the TPC20CAHM3/I affect circuit layout?
The bidirectional nature of the TPC20CAHM3/I eliminates polarity marking and orientation constraints-either terminal may connect to signal or ground, simplifying PCB layout and automated assembly. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the TPC20CAHM3/I protects against both positive and negative transients without requiring external diode pairing or careful pin assignment. This symmetry reduces design risk in AC-coupled or floating interfaces common in CAN, LIN, and sensor signal conditioning circuits.
What is the thermal derating behavior of the TPC20CAHM3/I above 25 °C ambient?
The TPC20CAHM3/I follows a defined derating curve per Figure 2 in its datasheet: peak pulse power (PPPM) decreases linearly from 100 % at 25 °C to approximately 50 % at 125 °C ambient, with full derating to zero at 185 °C junction temperature. Engineers must calculate actual junction temperature using thermal resistance (RθJA) and power dissipation to ensure operation remains within safe limits. The TPC20CAHM3/I's 185 °C TJ max enables use in high-temperature zones where other TVS devices would thermally throttle or fail.
TPC20CAHM3/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):
- 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 ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-277A (SMPC)
TPC20CAHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPC20CAHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPC20CAHM3/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 TPC20CAHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of TPC20CAHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPC20CAHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPC20CAHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPC20CAHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPC20CAHM3/I?
TPC20CAHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPC20CAHM3/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 TPC20CAHM3/I?
For technical support, including TPC20CAHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPC20CAHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPC20CAHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPC20CAHM3/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 TPC20CAHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPC20CAHM3/I?
All TPC20CAHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPC20CAHM3/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 TPC20CAHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPC20CAHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPC20CAHM3/I Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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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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Diodes Incorporated
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