Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE12HE3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE12HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE12HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 9.72VWM 17.3VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,172
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Product details
Overview
1.5KE12HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 12 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 11.4–12.6 V at 1 mA), 10.2 V maximum working voltage (VWM), and clamps transients to ≤16.7 V at 89.8 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under 10/1000 µs waveform. It delivers 1500 W peak pulse power and is AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive-grade reliability.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE12HE3/73 datasheet, 1.5KE12HE3/73 pinout, 1.5KE12HE3/73 application, or 1.5KE12HE3/73 equivalent, this device is selected for robust surge immunity in automotive ECUs, industrial sensor interfaces, and DC power input stages where fast clamping (<1 ns), low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.39), and high IFSM (200 A) are critical design requirements.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS diode uses a glass-passivated silicon junction optimized for transient suppression with minimal parasitic capacitance and sub-nanosecond response time. Its 1.5KE package provides mechanical robustness and thermal performance via low RθJL (15.4 °C/W) and rated operation from –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature.
The device operates with a 10.2 V stand-off voltage and clamps to 16.7 V at rated IPPM, achieving a clamping ratio of 1.64 relative to VWM. It supports repetitive surge duty cycles up to 0.01 % and complies with JESD22-B106 (275 °C solder dip) and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance (HE3 suffix).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Breakdown Voltage (VBR) | 11.4–12.6 V at 1 mA - defines precise conduction onset for reliable overvoltage triggering |
| Working Peak Reverse Voltage (VWM) | 10.2 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without leakage exceeding 5 µA |
| Clamping Voltage (VC) | ≤16.7 V at 89.8 A (10/1000 µs) - limits downstream voltage stress during surge events |
| Peak Pulse Power (PPPM) | 1500 W - enables handling of high-energy transients such as ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a in automotive systems |
| Peak Forward Surge Current (IFSM) | 200 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - withstands high-current inductive kickback without failure |
| Junction Temperature Range | –55 °C to +175 °C - supports operation in under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| Thermal Resistance (RθJL) | 15.4 °C/W - ensures efficient heat transfer to PCB leads, enabling sustained power dissipation |
Pinout & Package
Package: Axial-leaded DO-201AD (Case Style 1.5KE), molded epoxy body with matte tin-plated leads; polarity indicated by cathode band on unidirectional devices.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point during forward conduction | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., GND) in unidirectional clamp configuration |
| Cathode | Current exit point during forward conduction; reverse-biased terminal during protection | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); color band identifies this terminal |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enables stable VBR tolerance (±5 %), low leakage (<5 µA at VWM), and long-term reliability under thermal cycling |
| 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Meets ISO 16750-2 and SAE J1113-11 surge immunity requirements for automotive electronics |
| AEC-Q101 qualification (HE3 suffix) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| Sub-nanosecond response time | Clamps transients before sensitive ICs (e.g., microcontrollers, CAN transceivers) experience damaging overvoltage |
| JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance | Prevents tin whisker growth under high humidity and temperature stress, ensuring long-term solder joint integrity |
Applications
| Automotive Power Input Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed ECUs against load dump (ISO 16750-2 Pulse 5a) and alternator switching transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary shunt clamping device placed directly across input rail, conducting surge current away from downstream regulators and MCUs. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤16.7 V during 1500 W surges, preventing damage to 16 V-rated LDOs and 5 V/3.3 V power management ICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs (e.g., 4–20 mA current loops) and digital I/O (e.g., RS-485) in PLC modules exposed to ESD and inductive coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS connected between signal line and local ground, triggered only during positive overvoltage events. Use Value: Clamps fast-rising transients (<1 ns) to safe levels while maintaining <5 µA leakage at 10.2 V, preserving signal accuracy and noise margin. |
| DC Power Supply Input Stage | Consumer Device USB/DC Jack Protection |
Use Scenario: Front-end protection for AC/DC adapters and PoE-powered equipment subjected to lightning-induced surges on mains or Ethernet lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense in series with fuse or PTC, absorbing energy before it reaches secondary-side filtering and regulation. Use Value: Withstands 200 A non-repetitive forward surge (8.3 ms), enabling coordination with upstream overcurrent protection without premature failure. |
Use Scenario: Overvoltage safeguard on 5 V USB power inputs and barrel-jack DC inputs in smart home hubs and portable media devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed between input and system ground, activated only when VIN exceeds 10.2 V. Use Value: Provides certified ESD immunity (IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4) and surge robustness without loading the 5 V rail under normal operation due to ultra-low leakage. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12A | DO-214AA package (SMB), 12 V VBR, 1500 W PPPM, but lower IFSM (100 A) and no AEC-Q101 qualification in standard grade | Suitable for space-constrained PCBs but lacks automotive qualification and inductive surge margin | Select SMBJ12A only for cost-sensitive consumer applications where AEC-Q101 and 200 A IFSM are not required |
| 1.5KE12A-E3/54 | Same 1.5KE package and electrical specs, but commercial-grade (non-AEC-Q101) and JESD201 Class 1A whisker rating (E3 vs HE3) | Acceptable for industrial or computing applications where automotive reliability is not mandated | Choose 1.5KE12A-E3/54 for non-automotive designs needing identical form-factor and clamping performance at lower cost |
Compared with 1.5KE12HE3/73, SMBJ12A offers smaller footprint but sacrifices automotive qualification and surge current capability, while 1.5KE12A-E3/54 matches mechanical and electrical behavior but omits AEC-Q101 validation-making 1.5KE12HE3/73 the sole choice for production automotive systems requiring full qualification traceability.
Availability
1.5KE12HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronic control units, industrial sensor interfaces, and DC power supply input stages requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q101-compliant surge protection.
Supply support for 1.5KE12HE3/73 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 diodes, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The 1.5KE series was developed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments-including automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure-where consistent clamping performance, thermal resilience, and qualification-grade consistency are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance for 1.5KE12HE3/73?
The 1.5KE12HE3/73 has a specified breakdown voltage range of 11.4 V to 12.6 V at 1 mA test current, representing a ±5 % tolerance around the nominal 12 V rating. This tight VBR window ensures predictable turn-on behavior in overvoltage protection circuits and is verified per JEDEC standards in the Vishay 88301 datasheet. The 1.5KE12HE3/73 maintains this specification across its full operating temperature range.
Is 1.5KE12HE3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the 1.5KE12HE3/73 is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified (as confirmed in Vishay document 88301, Note 2), making it suitable for automotive applications including engine control modules, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces. Its HE3 suffix denotes compliance with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and full automotive qualification testing-key requirements for under-hood and chassis-mounted electronics where reliability under thermal and mechanical stress is critical.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of 1.5KE12HE3/73 at rated surge current?
The 1.5KE12HE3/73 clamps to a maximum of 16.7 V at its rated peak pulse current of 89.8 A (10/1000 µs waveform), as specified in the Vishay 88301 datasheet. This clamping voltage defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events and directly determines compatibility with downstream components' absolute maximum ratings-e.g., ensuring 16.7 V stays below the 20 V max rating of common 12 V system regulators.
How does the 1.5KE12HE3/73 differ from the standard 1.5KE12A?
The 1.5KE12HE3/73 differs from the base 1.5KE12A in three key ways: it carries the HE3 suffix indicating AEC-Q101 qualification, JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and RoHS compliance with enhanced process controls. In contrast, the 1.5KE12A (e.g., 1.5KE12A-E3/54) is commercial-grade with Class 1A whisker rating and no automotive qualification-making the 1.5KE12HE3/73 the only version approved for production automotive use.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to lead for 1.5KE12HE3/73?
The 1.5KE12HE3/73 has a typical thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) of 15.4 °C/W, as published in the Vishay 88301 datasheet under Thermal Characteristics. This low value enables effective heat transfer from the silicon die to the PCB leads, supporting continuous power dissipation up to 6.5 W at TL = 75 °C and contributing to stable long-term operation in thermally demanding environments like automotive power distribution modules.
1.5KE12HE3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- 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:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 1.5KE
1.5KE12HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE12HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE12HE3/73 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 1.5KE12HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE12HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE12HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE12HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE12HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE12HE3/73?
1.5KE12HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE12HE3/73 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 1.5KE12HE3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KE12HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE12HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE12HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE12HE3/73 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 1.5KE12HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE12HE3/73?
All 1.5KE12HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE12HE3/73, 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 1.5KE12HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE12HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE12HE3/73 Tags

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