Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE120CAHE3/51
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE120CAHE3/51
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE120CAHE3/51.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 102VWM 165VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,286
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Product details
Overview
1.5KE120CAHE3/51 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for high-energy surge protection in power and signal lines. It features a 120 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 114–126 V at 1 mA), 165 V maximum clamping voltage at 9.1 A peak pulse current, 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), and AEC-Q101 qualification - deployed in automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O protection.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 datasheet, 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 pinout, 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 application, or 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 equivalent, key selection criteria include bi-directional clamping capability, low incremental surge resistance, fast sub-nanosecond response time, RoHS-compliant HE3 packaging with JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and compatibility with 8.3 ms surge waveforms per JEDEC standards.
Technical Context
This bi-directional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics in forward and reverse directions. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low leakage (<1 µA at 102 V), while the molded epoxy case meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.
The device delivers 1500 W peak pulse power under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform conditions, with thermal resistance of 15.4 °C/W (junction-to-lead) enabling robust transient handling without heatsinking in typical PCB layouts. It supports operating junction temperatures from –55 °C to +175 °C and is rated for repetitive surges at ≤0.01% duty cycle.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 114–126 V at 1 mA test current - defines precise clamping onset threshold for overvoltage events |
| Stand-off Voltage VWM | 102 V maximum - ensures no conduction during normal 120 V AC line or 100 V DC bus operation |
| Clamping Voltage VC | 165 V at 9.1 A peak pulse - limits downstream voltage stress to safe levels for 3.3 V/5 V/12 V ICs |
| Peak Pulse Power PPPM | 1500 W (10/1000 µs) - sustains high-energy lightning-induced transients per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 |
| Operating Temperature | –55 °C to +175 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive, industrial motor drives, and outdoor telecom |
| Qualification | AEC-Q101 qualified (1.5KE120CAHE3/51 variant) - validated for automotive-grade reliability and lifetime performance |
| Leakage Current ID | <1 µA at 102 V - prevents standby power loss and false triggering in low-power sensor circuits |
Pinout & Package
Package: Case Style 1.5KE - axial-leaded DO-201AD molded epoxy package (0.375" lead length, 0.210" body diameter), UL 94 V-0 rated, matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (bi-directional) | Surge current path (symmetrical) | No polarity marking; terminals interchangeable - enables single-component placement on AC or differential lines |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures ±5% VBR tolerance and long-term stability under thermal cycling and humidity stress |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Withstands 10/1000 µs surges up to 9.1 A - exceeds IEC 61000-4-5 open-circuit voltage requirements for Level 4 |
| Sub-nanosecond response time | <1 ns clamping activation - protects sensitive gate oxides in MOSFETs and input stages of ADCs before damage occurs |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units, ADAS sensors, and body electronics |
| RoHS-compliant HE3 suffix | JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance - eliminates tin whisker risk in high-reliability, long-life embedded systems |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed directly at connector entry point to shunt transients before reaching ASIC or microcontroller. Use Value: Limits induced voltage to ≤165 V during 100 V/500 ms load dump, preserving signal integrity and preventing latch-up in 5 V tolerant interfaces. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital input modules against field-wiring surges and relay coil flyback in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary surge suppression element across input terminals, coordinated with series impedance for energy absorption. Use Value: Absorbs 1500 W transient energy without degradation, enabling >100,000 surge cycles per IEC 61000-4-5 compliance testing. |
| Telecom Line Interface | AC Mains Surge Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHYs and PoE controllers from induced surges on outdoor copper runs exposed to nearby lightning strikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS on differential pairs (e.g., MDI-X), working with common-mode chokes and primary GDTs. Use Value: Clamps common-mode transients to <165 V within 1 ns, maintaining IEEE 802.3af/bt interoperability and preventing PHY reset. |
Use Scenario: Supplementing MOV-based AC mains protectors in SMPS front-ends to handle fast-rising, low-energy spikes missed by slower varistors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response clamp across bridge rectifier outputs or DC bus rails to suppress ringing and switching transients. Use Value: Reduces overshoot from 300 V to ≤165 V during 50 ns edge transitions, improving capacitor lifetime and reducing EMI filter burden. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120CA | Lower PPPM (600 W), smaller SMB package (3.5 × 3.5 mm), higher VC (193 V @ 4.5 A) | Better suited for space-constrained PCBs with lower surge exposure (IEC 61000-4-2 only) | Select when board area is critical and peak surge energy is ≤600 W; not drop-in due to different footprint and derating. |
| 1.5SMC120CA | Same 1500 W rating, SMC package (7.1 × 6.2 mm), slightly higher VC (168 V @ 8.9 A), non-AEC-Q101 | Preferred for industrial/commercial designs where AEC-Q101 is not required and surface-mount assembly is used | Choose for automated SMT production and cost-sensitive non-automotive programs; requires re-layout from axial 1.5KE. |
Compared with 1.5KE120CAHE3/51, SMBJ120CA trades surge capacity and ruggedness for compactness, while 1.5SMC120CA offers identical power handling in an SMT format but lacks automotive qualification - making 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 optimal for high-reliability axial-leaded deployments requiring AEC-Q101 validation.
Availability
1.5KE120CAHE3/51 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, telecom line protection, and AC mains auxiliary clamping requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 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, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The 1.5KE family was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where failure modes must be mitigated via robust, standardized, and qualification-backed components.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage range for the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51?
The 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 has a guaranteed breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 114 V to 126 V at 1 mA test current, measured per JEDEC standard. This tight ±5% tolerance ensures predictable clamping behavior across manufacturing lots and temperature extremes, critical for consistent protection in automotive and industrial applications where 120 V nominal systems operate near their upper margin.
Is the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 suitable for automotive use?
Yes - the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 carries the HE3 suffix, confirming AEC-Q101 qualification per Vishay's documentation for variants from 1.5KE6.8CAHE3_A through 1.5KE220CAHE3_A. This includes stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity bias, mechanical shock, and high-temperature operating life, making it approved for under-hood and chassis-mounted electronics in passenger vehicles and commercial fleets.
How does the clamping voltage of the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 compare to its breakdown voltage?
The 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 clamps to a maximum of 165 V at 9.1 A peak pulse current (10/1000 µs), which is ~37% above its minimum breakdown voltage of 114 V. This incremental clamping voltage (ΔVC = 51 V) reflects low dynamic impedance, enabling effective energy diversion while limiting voltage overshoot seen by downstream ICs - essential for protecting 100 V-rated capacitors and 150 V MOSFETs.
What is the meaning of the "CA" and "HE3/51" suffixes in 1.5KE120CAHE3/51?
"CA" denotes bi-directional configuration - identical electrical behavior in both polarities, ideal for AC lines or differential signals. "HE3" indicates RoHS compliance plus AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance; "/51" specifies the packaging: 13" paper tape and reel, 51 units per carrier pocket, totaling 1400 units per reel - standard for automated SMT placement despite its axial form factor.
Can the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 be used in parallel to increase surge handling capacity?
Yes - the 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 may be paralleled to increase total peak pulse power, provided matched VBR units are selected (e.g., same date code and bin) and layout symmetry minimizes current imbalance. Vishay's application notes confirm this practice for >1500 W requirements, though thermal coupling and lead inductance must be controlled to avoid uneven sharing - typical implementations add 10–15% derating per added device.
1.5KE120CAHE3/51 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 102V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 114V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 165V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 9.1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 1.5KE
1.5KE120CAHE3/51 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 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 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 is usually 5 days.
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1.5KE120CAHE3/51 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 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 1.5KE120CAHE3/51?
For technical support, including 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 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 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE120CAHE3/51?
All 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE120CAHE3/51, 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 1.5KE120CAHE3/51 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE120CAHE3/51:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE120CAHE3/51 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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Nexperia USA Inc.

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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