Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KA12HE3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KA12HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KA12HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 9.72VWM 17.3VC 1.5KA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,305
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Product details
Overview
1.5KA12HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional automotive-grade transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for high-reliability circuit protection in harsh environments. It features a 12 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 10.8–13.2 V), 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive applications such as engine control units and sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KA12HE3/73 datasheet, 1.5KA12HE3/73 pinout, 1.5KA12HE3/73 application, or 1.5KA12HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage (VC = 17.3 V at IPPM), junction temperature range (−65 °C to +185 °C), and RoHS-compliant HE3 packaging with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Technical Context
This TVS diode employs Vishay's patented PAR® construction for stable clamping under repetitive surge stress and operates exclusively in unidirectional polarity. Its low incremental surge resistance and fast response time ensure effective suppression of inductive switching transients up to 200 A (IFSM) and 1500 W pulses.
The device is rated for operation from −65 °C to +185 °C, with thermal derating defined per Fig. 2 and Fig. 5. Its 1.5KA case style uses molded epoxy over passivated junction, UL 94 V-0 compliant, and matte tin-plated leads meeting J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102 solderability standards.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 10.8 V min / 13.2 V max at 1.0 mA - defines precise voltage threshold for avalanche conduction onset |
| Clamping Voltage VC | 17.3 V max at 86.7 A peak pulse - limits protected circuit voltage during 10/1000 µs surge |
| Peak Pulse Power PPPM | 1500 W (10/1000 µs) - sustains high-energy transients without failure |
| Operating Temperature Range | −65 °C to +185 °C - enables use in under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| Surge Current IPPM | 86.7 A (10/1000 µs) - quantifies maximum transient current it can safely shunt |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - certified for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTGB, HTRB, TCT |
| RoHS & Whisker Compliance | RoHS 2002/95/EC; JESD201 Class 2 - ensures long-term reliability in lead-free assembly |
Pinout & Package
Package: Case Style 1.5KA - axial-leaded, molded epoxy body with cathode band marking; dimensions: 1.0" (25.4 mm) min length × 0.210" (5.3 mm) max diameter; UL 94 V-0 rated.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal in forward bias | Connected to ground or lower-potential node in unidirectional TVS configuration |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal; marked by color band | Connected to protected line (e.g., CAN_H, LIN, sensor supply) - conducts during reverse overvoltage |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Patented PAR® construction | Enables stable VBR and low dynamic impedance across temperature and lifetime stress |
| 1500 W peak pulse rating (10/1000 µs) | Provides robust protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b and ISO 16750-2 load dump surges |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood use with guaranteed performance at 185 °C junction temperature |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.45) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream ICs like microcontrollers and transceivers |
| Matte tin-plated leads, JESD201 Class 2 | Prevents tin whisker growth in high-reliability systems operating >10 years |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V power rails and CAN/LIN bus lines in engine control modules exposed to load dump and inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamp placed between power rail and ground to divert surge energy away from MCU and transceiver ICs. Use Value: Withstands 1500 W pulses and operates up to 185 °C, ensuring ECU reliability during extended high-temperature operation. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output lines (4–20 mA) and digital I/O of pressure/temperature sensors in factory automation PLCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff voltage (VWM = 9.72 V) allows normal 10–12 V sensor supply operation while clamping transients above 17.3 V. Use Value: Low leakage (<2 µA at VWM) prevents signal drift; AEC-Q101 qualification supports long-life industrial deployments. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Telecom Power Supply Input Stage |
Use Scenario: Protecting door module microcontrollers and LED driver inputs from battery reversal and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cathode tied to 12 V supply line; anode grounded - clamps positive-going spikes and absorbs reverse polarity energy. Use Value: 200 A IFSM rating handles high-current jump-start events; HE3 suffix ensures whisker-resistant solder joints. |
Use Scenario: Front-end surge suppression on 12 V DC input of telecom base station power supplies subjected to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense before DC/DC converters - shunts 10/1000 µs transients exceeding 17.3 V clamping level. Use Value: 1500 W rating meets ITU-T K.20/21 immunity requirements; UL 94 V-0 package prevents flame propagation in enclosed systems. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12AHE3/52 | Surface-mount SMB package; 12 V standoff; 600 W PPPM (vs. 1500 W); lower IPPM (32.4 A) | Designed for PCB space-constrained consumer/industrial boards - not AEC-Q101 qualified | Select when board area is limited and surge energy is ≤600 W; not suitable for automotive under-hood use. |
| 1.5KE12A | Through-hole DO-201 package; same 12 V rating; 1500 W PPPM; but only standard grade (not AEC-Q101 or HE3 whisker-rated) | Lacks automotive qualification and JESD201 Class 2 plating - used in non-critical industrial power supplies | Choose for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where 185 °C operation and long-term whisker resistance are not required. |
Compared with SMBJ12AHE3/52 and 1.5KE12A, the 1.5KA12HE3/73 uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, 1500 W capability in axial-leaded form, and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance - making it the only option qualified for high-temperature automotive power rail protection with zero solder joint reliability risk.
Availability
1.5KA12HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, industrial sensor interfaces, and telecom power supply inputs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 1.5KA12HE3/73 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 high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, and optoelectronics for demanding industrial and automotive applications.
The 1.5KA series was developed specifically for AEC-Q101-compliant transient suppression in automotive power networks, emphasizing thermal stability, surge robustness, and long-term solder joint integrity under thermal cycling.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the 1.5KA12HE3/73 under maximum rated surge current?
The 1.5KA12HE3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 17.3 V when subjected to its peak pulse current (IPPM) of 86.7 A using the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at TA = 25 °C and ensures downstream components see no more than 17.3 V during surge events. The 1.5KA12HE3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range due to its patented PAR® construction.
Is the 1.5KA12HE3/73 suitable for automotive under-hood applications?
Yes, the 1.5KA12HE3/73 is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for junction temperatures up to +185 °C, making it suitable for under-hood automotive applications including engine control units and body control modules. Its HE3 suffix confirms compliance with JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing and RoHS 2002/95/EC, fulfilling critical automotive reliability requirements that the 1.5KA12HE3/73 was engineered to meet.
What does the "HE3" suffix indicate on the 1.5KA12HE3/73?
The "HE3" suffix on the 1.5KA12HE3/73 denotes Vishay's high-reliability, automotive-grade variant: RoHS-compliant construction, matte tin-plated leads qualified to JESD22-B102 and J-STD-002, and passing JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing. This distinguishes the 1.5KA12HE3/73 from standard versions and confirms suitability for long-life, high-temperature deployments where solder joint integrity is mission-critical.
How does the 1.5KA12HE3/73 differ from the 1.5KA12A variant?
The 1.5KA12HE3/73 and 1.5KA12A share identical electrical specifications (VBR, VC, PPPM), but the 1.5KA12HE3/73 adds AEC-Q101 qualification, JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and enhanced process controls for automotive use. The 1.5KA12A is a standard-grade part without these certifications - the 1.5KA12HE3/73 is the only version approved for automotive safety-critical circuits.
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) of the 1.5KA12HE3/73, and why does it matter?
The standoff voltage (VWM) of the 1.5KA12HE3/73 is 9.72 V - the maximum continuous reverse voltage it can block without significant leakage. This ensures compatibility with nominal 12 V automotive systems, allowing normal operation below 9.72 V while triggering avalanche conduction only during overvoltage events. Maintaining low leakage (<2 µA at VWM) preserves signal integrity in sensitive sensor interfaces protected by the 1.5KA12HE3/73.
1.5KA12HE3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Series:
- PAR®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 9.72V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 10.8V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 17.3V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 86.7A
- 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:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 1.5KA
1.5KA12HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KA12HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KA12HE3/73 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 1.5KA12HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KA12HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KA12HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KA12HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KA12HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KA12HE3/73?
1.5KA12HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KA12HE3/73 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 1.5KA12HE3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KA12HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KA12HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KA12HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KA12HE3/73 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 1.5KA12HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KA12HE3/73?
All 1.5KA12HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KA12HE3/73, 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 1.5KA12HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KA12HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KA12HE3/73 Tags

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