Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division TPSMA20AHE3_A/I
- Part No.:
- TPSMA20AHE3_A/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
TPSMA20AHE3_A/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TPSMA20AHE3_A/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional surface-mount transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on power and signal lines. It features a 20 V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR = 19.0–21.0 V), 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 14.4 V maximum clamping voltage at 14.4 A peak pulse current, and operates up to +185 °C junction temperature - ideal for automotive power rail protection.
For engineers reviewing the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I datasheet, TPSMA20AHE3_A/I pinout, TPSMA20AHE3_A/I application, or TPSMA20AHE3_A/I equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional polarity, AEC-Q101 qualification status, 1.0 W steady-state power dissipation, and compatibility with high-reliability PCB layouts using 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm copper pads per terminal.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses passivated anisotropic rectifier technology optimized for stable clamping under repetitive surge conditions. Its 185 °C maximum junction temperature and MSL Level 1 rating support reflow soldering at 260 °C peak, meeting automotive-grade thermal and reliability requirements.
The device delivers low incremental surge resistance and fast response time to suppress transients induced by inductive load switching or lightning surges. Clamping performance is specified at 14.4 A (IPPM) with VC ≤ 27.7 V, ensuring robust protection for downstream MOSFETs and ICs without overvoltage stress.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/typ/max) | 19.0 / 20.0 / 21.0 V - defines precise voltage threshold where avalanche conduction begins; ensures consistent turn-on across temperature and unit variation |
| VWM | 17.1 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage; sets safe operating limit below breakdown for normal circuit operation |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V - clamped voltage during 14.4 A 10/1000 µs surge; determines worst-case overvoltage seen by protected device |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak pulse power handling capability; enables suppression of high-energy transients without failure |
| TJ max. | +185 °C - extended junction temperature rating; supports under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| IFSM | 40 A - 8.3 ms non-repetitive forward surge current rating; validates robustness against accidental polarity reversal events |
| Polarity | Unidirectional - protects against positive-going transients only; requires correct orientation relative to system ground |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMA (DO-214AC), surface-mount, molded plastic case with matte tin-plated leads. Cathode indicated by color band; terminals are anode and cathode only.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Input/Line side connection | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); carries surge current into device during clamping |
| Cathode | Output/Ground reference | Connected to system ground or low-impedance return path; establishes clamping reference and completes surge current loop |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics; includes temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing |
| MSL Level 1, 260 °C peak reflow | Enables standard SMT assembly without moisture sensitivity concerns or pre-bake requirements |
| 185 °C maximum junction temperature | Supports operation in high-ambient environments such as under-hood modules and industrial motor drives |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.39) | Minimizes overvoltage margin between clamping and breakdown, improving protection headroom for sensitive loads |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Handles common ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b, and IEC 61000-4-5 surge waveforms |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed ECUs from load dump and alternator transients per ISO 7637-2. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between power input and ground to clamp positive voltage spikes before they reach DC/DC converters or microcontrollers. Use Value: With VC ≤ 27.7 V at 14.4 A, TPSMA20AHE3_A/I prevents overvoltage damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic rails downstream of LDOs or buck regulators. | Use Scenario: Shielding analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from ESD and cable discharge events in factory automation systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS mounted at connector interface to shunt fast transients (<1 ns rise time) before entering op-amp front-end or ADC input stage. Use Value: Fast response time and low capacitance ensure signal integrity is preserved while suppressing ±8 kV contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2. |
| Telecom Power Supply Input Protection | Consumer Device USB Port Protection |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding AC/DC adapter inputs in telecom base station power supplies exposed to lightning-induced surges on primary-side windings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-side TVS connected across bulk capacitor input to clamp high-voltage transients before rectification and filtering stages. Use Value: 400 W peak power rating and 185 °C TJ rating allow reliable operation in sealed, high-temperature enclosures without derating. | Use Scenario: Adding secondary-level surge immunity to USB VBUS lines in portable medical monitors and smart home hubs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between USB connector and power management IC to absorb hot-plug and ESD events. Use Value: RoHS-compliant and halogen-free (HE3 suffix) construction meets regulatory requirements for consumer electronics without compromising clamping performance. |
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 | Same SMA package, 20 V VBR, but rated for 400 W with 1.0 W PD; not AEC-Q101 qualified | Lacks automotive qualification; suitable for industrial/commercial designs without automotive compliance needs | Select SMAJ20A when AEC-Q101 is not required and cost optimization is prioritized |
| 1.5SMC20A | Higher package (SMC/DO-214AB), 20 V VBR, 1500 W PPPM, same unidirectional polarity | Requires larger PCB footprint; used where higher surge energy handling is needed beyond 400 W | Choose 1.5SMC20A only if system-level surge testing exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 or requires >400 W margin |
Compared with SMAJ20A and 1.5SMC20A, TPSMA20AHE3_A/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, MSL Level 1 reflow compatibility, and compact SMA footprint - making it the preferred choice for space-constrained, automotive-grade transient suppression where qualification and manufacturability are mandatory.
Availability
TPSMA20AHE3_A/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power rail protection, industrial sensor interface protection, and telecom power supply input protection requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for TPSMA20AHE3_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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, thermal performance, and automotive qualification.
The TPSMA series is part of Vishay's PAR® (Protection and Regulation) transient suppression product line, engineered specifically for high-temperature, high-reliability applications in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I at its rated peak pulse current?
The TPSMA20AHE3_A/I has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 14.4 A under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at TA = 25 °C and confirms the device's ability to limit transient overvoltage to a safe level for downstream components. The TPSMA20AHE3_A/I maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range, supporting robust design in demanding environments.
Is the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's documentation and the HE3 suffix designation. This qualification includes rigorous testing for temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), and electrostatic discharge (ESD), validating its suitability for automotive powertrain, body control, and infotainment systems. The TPSMA20AHE3_A/I also meets MSL Level 1 and supports peak reflow temperatures up to 260 °C, enabling seamless integration into automotive PCB assembly processes.
What is the stand-off voltage (VWM) of the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I, and why does it matter?
The stand-off voltage (VWM) of the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I is 17.1 V - the maximum continuous reverse voltage the device can withstand without entering avalanche conduction. This parameter ensures the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I remains non-conductive during normal operation (e.g., on a nominal 12 V automotive rail), preventing leakage current and power loss. Selecting a VWM ≥ 1.1× nominal line voltage avoids false triggering while maintaining sufficient margin below VBR.
Does the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I have polarity markings, and how is it oriented on the PCB?
Yes, the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I features a visible cathode band printed on the package body, indicating the cathode terminal. During PCB layout, the cathode must be connected to the system ground or lower-potential node, while the anode connects to the line being protected. Incorrect orientation will prevent proper clamping of positive transients and may lead to device failure. The SMA (DO-214AC) package outline drawing in the Vishay datasheet (Document Number 88405) confirms this marking and terminal assignment for the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I.
What is the thermal performance limit of the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I, and how does it affect board layout?
The TPSMA20AHE3_A/I supports a maximum junction temperature (TJ) of +185 °C, enabling operation in high-ambient environments like engine compartments or enclosed industrial enclosures. To achieve rated power dissipation, Vishay specifies mounting on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal - a critical layout requirement. Reducing pad size or omitting thermal vias will cause excessive junction heating and premature failure during surge events. This thermal specification directly informs the TPSMA20AHE3_A/I's placement and copper area allocation in production designs.
TPSMA20AHE3_A/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- PAR®
- 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):
- 14.4A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- 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:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
TPSMA20AHE3_A/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPSMA20AHE3_A/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPSMA20AHE3_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 TPSMA20AHE3_A/I reliable?
The price and inventory of TPSMA20AHE3_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 TPSMA20AHE3_A/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPSMA20AHE3_A/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPSMA20AHE3_A/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPSMA20AHE3_A/I?
TPSMA20AHE3_A/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPSMA20AHE3_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 TPSMA20AHE3_A/I?
For technical support, including TPSMA20AHE3_A/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPSMA20AHE3_A/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPSMA20AHE3_A/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPSMA20AHE3_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 TPSMA20AHE3_A/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPSMA20AHE3_A/I?
All TPSMA20AHE3_A/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPSMA20AHE3_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 TPSMA20AHE3_A/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPSMA20AHE3_A/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPSMA20AHE3_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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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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Diodes Incorporated
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