The 1.5SMC36AHM3_A/I is a Zener-type transient voltage suppressor from Vishay's 1.5SMC series, branded TransZorb®. It is qualified to AEC-Q101, the automotive-grade discrete semiconductor reliability standard, meaning it has passed the temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD sensitivity tests required for under-hood and chassis-mounted electronics. The reverse standoff voltage is 30.8 V, and breakdown occurs at a minimum of 34.2 V — this window ensures the device stays off during normal 24 V or 28 V bus operation but fires before the downstream silicon sees damaging overvoltage.
Where it fits — automotive and telecom transient protection
The 1.5SMC36AHM3_A/I is intended for transient overvoltage suppression on power and signal lines in automotive electronics and telecom infrastructure. AEC-Q101 qualification makes it a direct fit for engine control units, transmission controllers, infotainment power rails, and any 12 V or 24 V vehicle bus that must survive load-dump and inductive-load switching transients per ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2. When a transient exceeds the 34.2 V breakdown threshold, the Zener avalanche clamps the line to 49.9 V maximum — well within the 60 V to 80 V abs-max rating of typical automotive-grade power management ICs.
The base product number 1.5SMC36 covers the family; the HM3 suffix denotes the AEC-Q101 automotive qualification and the _A/I suffix indicates the lead-free, halogen-free, and RoHS-compliant termination finish.