Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation 1.5KE120C
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE120C
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE120C.pdf
- Description:
- 1500W, 120V, 10%, BIDIRECTIONAL,
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,192
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
1.5KE120C from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-201 package, with nominal breakdown voltage 120V, working stand-off voltage 97.2V, clamping voltage 173V at 9.1A peak pulse current, and junction temperature range −55°C to +175°C - used for automotive load-dump and ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a protection in power supply inputs.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE120C datasheet, 1.5KE120C pinout, 1.5KE120C application, or 1.5KE120C equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, DO-201 terminal mapping, AEC-Q101 qualification status, clamping performance under 10/1000μs surge, and real-world ESD/inductive switching protection use cases.
Technical Context
The 1.5KE120C operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, triggering when reverse voltage exceeds its 108–132V breakdown range (tested at 1mA), limiting transient energy by clamping to ≤173V at 9.1A. Its low dynamic impedance ensures rapid voltage stabilization during fast transients.
It meets ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b immunity requirements and supports automotive-grade reliability with AEC-Q101 qualification (denoted by "H" suffix variants). The device exhibits <1μA leakage above 10V and a VBR temperature coefficient of 0.107%/°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR min/max | 108V / 132V at 1mA test current - defines reliable turn-on threshold across temperature and unit variation |
| VWM | 97.2V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 1μA |
| VC @ IPP | 173V at 9.1A peak pulse - clamping voltage during 10/1000μs surge; determines protected circuit's max stress level |
| PPK | 1500W - peak pulse power handling per single 10/1000μs waveform, derated above 25°C ambient |
| Junction Temp | −55°C to +175°C - enables operation in under-hood automotive and industrial power environments |
| Package | DO-201 - axial-leaded, UL 94V-0 molded case with pure tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002 |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified (H-suffix variants only) - validated for automotive electronic module reliability per stress test requirements |
Pinout & Package
DO-201 package: axial-leaded, cylindrical epoxy body with cathode band marking. Leads are pure tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002, and meet JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction path / low-impedance return during clamping | Connected to system ground or low-side reference; carries full surge current during reverse-biased clamping |
| Cathode | Transient input node / high-voltage side | Connected to protected line (e.g., battery rail); polarity-marked band identifies this terminal |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 1500W surge rating | Handles single 10/1000μs transients up to 1500W without degradation - sufficient for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) |
| Clamping ratio (VC/VBR) | ~1.42 (173V / 122V typ) - tight ratio minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream regulators and controllers |
| Response time | <1.0ps from 0V to VBR - enables protection against nanosecond-scale ESD and fast-switching noise |
| Leakage current | <1μA at 97.2V - negligible standby power loss and no interference with high-impedance sensing circuits |
| RoHS & halogen-free | Compliant per IEC 61249-2-21 - meets environmental requirements for automotive and industrial end equipment |
Applications
| Automotive Power Input Protection | Industrial DC Power Rail Clamping |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 12V/24V vehicle battery line exposed to load dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between battery rail and DC-DC converter input. Use Value: Clamps transients to ≤173V, preventing damage to 36V-rated input stages of buck controllers like LM5017 or MPQ4312. |
Use Scenario: 48V telecom or factory automation power bus subject to inductive switching spikes from solenoid drivers. IC Role / Device Role: Standoff protector on main DC input before point-of-load regulators. Use Value: Absorbs 1500W surges without failure, maintaining system uptime where fuses or MOVs would degrade or fail open. |
| LED Driver Surge Suppression | Motor Control Board ESD Hardening |
Use Scenario: Constant-current LED driver input subjected to hot-plug transients and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role: Primary-level TVS on input capacitor node, upstream of active PFC or buck controller. Use Value: Limits Vin excursion to 173V, protecting 200V MOSFETs and ensuring stable dimming control under field conditions. |
Use Scenario: H-bridge gate driver PCB with long traces susceptible to ESD coupling and back-EMF spikes. IC Role / Device Role: Bidirectional protection not applicable - 1.5KE120C used on low-side power return path for unidirectional clamp. Use Value: Prevents latch-up in DRV8305 or similar gate drivers by suppressing ground bounce transients exceeding 100V. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ120A | Same DO-214AC (SMA) package, 120V VBR, 1500W rating, but bidirectional; VC = 193V @ 7.8A | Requires polarity-aware layout; higher clamping voltage reduces margin for 150V-rated downstream ICs | Select if board space favors surface-mount or bidirectional surge risk exists (e.g., AC-coupled lines) |
| ON Semiconductor 1.5SMC120 | DO-214AB (SMC) package, same 120V VBR, 1500W, unidirectional; VC = 173V @ 9.1A - identical clamping, but 2.5× larger footprint | Compatible with high-power heatsinking; less suitable for compact automotive modules | Choose when thermal management requires larger pad area or legacy SMC footprint compatibility is mandatory |
Compared with Littelfuse SMAJ120A and ON Semi 1.5SMC120, the 1.5KE120C offers identical clamping performance in a smaller DO-201 axial package - ideal for through-hole automotive modules where lead-forming flexibility and proven under-hood reliability are prioritized over SMT density.
Availability
1.5KE120C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power distribution units, industrial PLC power supplies, LED streetlight drivers, and motor control boards requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 traceability and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for 1.5KE120C 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets since 1979.
The 1.5KE series was designed specifically for robust, high-energy transient suppression in automotive and industrial power systems - emphasizing AEC-Q101 compliance, wide temperature operation, and repeatable clamping under real-world surge waveforms.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of the 1.5KE120C?
The 1.5KE120C is a unidirectional TVS diode, with cathode marked by a band on the DO-201 body. It conducts only during reverse-biased overvoltage events - forward voltage drop is 3.5V at 50A, per datasheet Note 3. This polarity must be observed in PCB layout to ensure correct clamping behavior on positive-rail transients.
Does the 1.5KE120C meet AEC-Q101 qualification?
The base 1.5KE120C part is not AEC-Q101 qualified; only variants with "H" suffix (e.g., 1.5KE120CH) carry formal AEC-Q101 certification. The 1.5KE120C shares identical electrical specs and construction but lacks the extended stress-test validation required for automotive front-end modules.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the 1.5KE120C under standard test conditions?
The 1.5KE120C has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 173V at 9.1A peak pulse current, measured using the 10/1000μs double-exponential waveform per IEC 61000-4-5 and ISO 7637-2. This value is guaranteed across all units at TA = 25°C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry.
Can the 1.5KE120C be used in bidirectional signal-line protection?
No - the 1.5KE120C is strictly unidirectional and unsuitable for bidirectional data or AC lines. For such applications, use the CA-suffixed bipolar variant (e.g., 1.5KE120CA) or dedicated bidirectional TVS arrays. Using 1.5KE120C on AC signals risks forward conduction and permanent damage during negative half-cycles.
How does thermal derating affect the 1.5KE120C's surge capability above 25°C?
Per Figure 2 in the datasheet, the 1.5KE120C's 1500W peak pulse power is linearly derated above 25°C ambient: at 75°C it drops to ~1100W, and at 125°C to ~700W. This must be accounted for in under-hood designs; mounting on copper pads ≥16mm² improves heat dissipation and extends usable power range.
1.5KE120C Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Series:
- 1.5KE
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 97.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 108V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 173V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 9.1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-201
1.5KE120C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE120C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE120C 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 1.5KE120C reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE120C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE120C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE120C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE120C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE120C?
1.5KE120C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE120C 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 1.5KE120C?
For technical support, including 1.5KE120C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE120C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE120C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE120C 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 1.5KE120C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE120C?
All 1.5KE120C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE120C, 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 1.5KE120C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE120C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE120C Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

