SMBG12C-E3/5B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SMBG12C-E3/5B is a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division, part of the TransZorb® series. This surface-mount component is designed for general-purpose transient voltage suppression applications with a 12V reverse standoff voltage and 22V maximum clamping voltage. The part is currently listed as obsolete, making identification of suitable equivalent and substitute parts essential for ongoing design support and procurement.

Substiute Parts

SMBG12C-E3/5B

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 776SMBG12C-E3/5B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SMBG12CA-E3/5B

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 970SMBG12CA-E3/5B Datasheet

DirectRFQ

SMBG12CA

Microsemi CorporationIn Stock: 3515SMBG12CA Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the SMBG12C-E3/5B is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff: 12V (nominal)
• Voltage - Breakdown (Min): 13.3V
• Package / Case: DO-215AA, SMB Gull Wing
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Type: Zener, Bidirectional (1 channel)
• Power - Peak Pulse: 600W

Substitute parts must maintain identical or functionally equivalent electrical characteristics within the specified operating temperature range and package constraints. Variations in clamping voltage and peak pulse current are acceptable provided they remain within the design envelope for the application circuit.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

SMBG12CA-E3/5B (Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division) is the primary direct substitute for the obsolete SMBG12C-E3/5B. Both parts share identical reverse standoff voltage (12V), breakdown voltage (13.3V), package configuration (DO-215AA), and operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 150°C). The SMBG12CA-E3/5B maintains ROHS3 compliance and is currently in active production status with higher inventory availability (894 pcs). The reduced clamping voltage (19.9V vs. 22V) and increased peak pulse current (30.2A vs. 27.3A) represent improved performance characteristics within the same power envelope (600W).

SMBG12CA (Microsemi Corporation) provides an alternative substitute with identical electrical specifications to the SMBG12CA-E3/5B variant. This part offers an extended lower operating temperature limit (-65°C vs. -55°C) and significantly higher inventory availability (3450 pcs). However, this part is RoHS non-compliant, which may restrict its use in applications subject to RoHS regulations. The DO-215AA package and surface-mount configuration remain identical.

For applications requiring RoHS compliance and active product support, SMBG12CA-E3/5B is the recommended selection. For applications without RoHS constraints and requiring maximum inventory availability, SMBG12CA (Microsemi) is acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SMBG12CA-E3/5B directly replace SMBG12C-E3/5B in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts share the same reverse standoff voltage (12V), breakdown voltage (13.3V), and DO-215AA package configuration. The SMBG12CA-E3/5B exhibits lower clamping voltage (19.9V) and higher peak pulse current (30.2A), representing improved suppression performance within the same power rating (600W).

Q: What is the difference between SMBG12CA-E3/5B and SMBG12CA?

A: Both parts are electrically equivalent with identical voltage and current ratings. The primary differences are manufacturer (Vishay vs. Microsemi), RoHS compliance status (ROHS3 vs. non-compliant), and operating temperature range (-55°C to 150°C vs. -65°C to 150°C). Part selection depends on compliance requirements and temperature specifications for the application.

Q: Are all three parts compatible with the same PCB footprint?

A: Yes. All three parts use the DO-215AA package with SMB Gull Wing configuration and surface-mount technology. PCB footprints and reflow soldering profiles are identical.

Q: Why is the clamping voltage lower in the substitute parts?

A: The SMBG12CA variants (19.9V clamping) represent a different performance grade within the 12V standoff voltage family. Lower clamping voltage indicates faster transient suppression response. Both clamping voltages (22V and 19.9V) are within acceptable design margins for 12V protection circuits.

Q: Which substitute should be selected for new designs?

A: SMBG12CA-E3/5B is recommended for new designs due to active product status, ROHS3 compliance, and proven availability. The Microsemi SMBG12CA variant is acceptable only if RoHS non-compliance is acceptable for the application.