Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation 1.5KE160C
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE160C
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE160C.pdf
- Description:
- 1500W, 160V, 10%, BIDIRECTIONAL,
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,425
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Product details
Overview
1.5KE160C from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-201 package, with nominal breakdown voltage 160V, working stand-off voltage 130V, clamping voltage 230V at 6.8A peak pulse current, and junction temperature range −55°C to +175°C - used for automotive load-dump and inductive switching protection in power supply rails.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE160C datasheet, 1.5KE160C pinout, 1.5KE160C application, or 1.5KE160C equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional polarity, 130V VWM rating, 230V VC clamping performance, AEC-Q101 qualification status, and DO-201 mechanical compatibility with high-surge PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The 1.5KE160C operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, triggering at VBR = 144–176V (tested at 1mA), clamping transients to ≤230V within nanoseconds. Its low dynamic impedance ensures rapid energy diversion during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/2b/3a/3b events.
Designed for non-repetitive 10/1000μs surge waveforms, it delivers 1500W peak pulse power at 25°C with thermal derating above ambient - supported by 0.090g mass, UL 94V-0 molding compound, and pure tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 130 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins |
| VBR min/max | 144 V / 176 V - breakdown occurs within this range at 1 mA test current |
| VC @ IPP | 230 V at 6.8 A - clamped voltage during full 1500W surge, defining protected circuit stress level |
| PPK | 1500 W - peak pulse power handling per 10/1000μs waveform, critical for load-dump immunity |
| TJ max | +175 °C - maximum junction temperature enabling under-hood automotive deployment |
| ID @ VWM | <1 μA - leakage current at rated stand-off voltage, minimizing standby power loss |
| Package | DO-201 - axial-leaded through-hole package with cathode band marking, compatible with legacy PCB footprints |
Pinout & Package
DO-201 package: axial-leaded, cylindrical epoxy body with cathode band marking on one end. Cathode terminal is marked; anode is unmarked. Leads are pure tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002, and meet JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (banded end) | Surge current sink | Connected to protected line; conducts avalanche current to ground during overvoltage |
| Anode (unmarked end) | Reference node | Typically tied to system ground or low-impedance return path for clamping action |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD robustness |
| 1500W surge capability | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) up to 1500W without degradation |
| Clamping voltage ≤230V | Limits downstream IC stress during 6.8A transient, preserving 200V+ rated components |
| Response time <1.0 ps | Sub-nanosecond turn-on enables protection of fast-edge digital interfaces and microcontrollers |
| RoHS & halogen-free | Complies with IEC 61249-2-21 and EU RoHS Directive for green manufacturing |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Motor Drive DC Bus |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Suppressing 12V/24V battery line transients caused by alternator load dump or relay switching in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between battery rail and regulator input to clamp spikes before LDO or DC-DC stage. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or destruction of downstream PMICs and MCUs by limiting voltage to 230V during 1500W surges. | Use Scenario: Protecting gate drivers and bus capacitors from inductive kickback in 48V industrial motor control inverters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted across DC bus terminals to absorb energy from IGBT/MOSFET turn-off spikes. Use Value: Enables reliable operation at TJ = 175°C ambient, reducing need for heatsinking while meeting IEC 61800-3 surge immunity. |
| LED Driver Input Stage | Telecom Power Interface |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding constant-current LED driver ICs against line surges in streetlight and signage applications. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed upstream of input filter capacitor to shunt transients before rectifier and controller. Use Value: Maintains <1μA leakage at 130V VWM, avoiding unnecessary power loss in always-on lighting systems. | Use Scenario: Front-end protection for PoE-powered equipment exposed to lightning-induced surges on Ethernet cables. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Paired with common-mode chokes and gas discharge tubes to handle differential-mode transients on DC bias lines. Use Value: Fast response (<1ps) and low clamping voltage ensure Ethernet PHY ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings during surge events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ160A | Surface-mount SMB package; 160V VBR, 230V VC, 600W PPK - lower power rating, smaller footprint | Used where board space is constrained and surge energy is ≤600W (e.g., secondary-side protection) | Select SMBJ160A only when layout prohibits axial DO-201 or when total surge energy is below 600W |
| 1.5KE160CA | Bidirectional variant; same VBR/VC specs but symmetric conduction in both polarities | Required for AC-coupled or floating signal lines where polarity reversal may occur | Choose 1.5KE160CA only if bidirectional clamping is needed; 1.5KE160C is optimal for DC rail protection with defined polarity |
Compared with SMBJ160A, the 1.5KE160C offers 2.5× higher surge power (1500W vs. 600W) and proven DO-201 mechanical robustness for high-vibration environments; compared with 1.5KE160CA, it provides lower leakage and tighter VBR tolerance for unidirectional DC applications.
Availability
1.5KE160C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial motor drive development, and LED lighting power supply engineering requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for 1.5KE160C 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, specializing in TVS diodes, rectifiers, and power devices since 1979.
The 1.5KE series was developed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in automotive and industrial power systems, emphasizing AEC-Q101 compliance, wide VBR tolerance, and robust DO-201 packaging for harsh-environment reliability.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of the 1.5KE160C?
The 1.5KE160C is a unidirectional TVS diode, with cathode identified by a band on the DO-201 package. It conducts only when the cathode is at a higher potential than the anode - making it suitable for DC rail protection where polarity is fixed. This differs from bidirectional variants like 1.5KE160CA, which protect both positive and negative transients.
Does the 1.5KE160C meet AEC-Q101 requirements?
Yes, the 1.5KE160C is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed in the official Taiwan Semiconductor documentation. This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), temperature cycling, and electrostatic discharge - validating its suitability for automotive under-hood applications such as engine control units and body electronics.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the 1.5KE160C during a surge event?
The 1.5KE160C has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 230 V at 6.8 A peak pulse current (IPP), measured under the standard 10/1000μs waveform. This value defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a full 1500W transient, ensuring downstream components rated above 230V remain within safe operating limits.
How does the 1.5KE160C compare to the 1.5KE160A variant?
The 1.5KE160C and 1.5KE160A share identical electrical specifications including VBR (144–176 V), VWM (130 V), and VC (230 V), but differ in marking and minor process controls. The "C" suffix denotes standard commercial grade, while "A" indicates tighter VBR tolerance (152–168 V) and enhanced screening - both use DO-201 packaging and are unidirectional.
Can the 1.5KE160C be used in surface-mount designs?
No, the 1.5KE160C is exclusively available in the axial-leaded DO-201 through-hole package and is not compatible with surface-mount assembly processes. For SMT alternatives, consider the SMBJ160A (SMB package, 600W) or SMCJ160A (SMC package, 1500W), which offer comparable voltage ratings but require different PCB footprints and reflow profiles.
1.5KE160C 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):
- 130V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 144V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 230V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 6.8A
- 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
1.5KE160C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE160C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE160C 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 1.5KE160C reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE160C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE160C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE160C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE160C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE160C?
1.5KE160C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE160C 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 1.5KE160C?
For technical support, including 1.5KE160C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE160C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE160C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE160C 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 1.5KE160C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE160C?
All 1.5KE160C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE160C, 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 1.5KE160C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE160C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE160C Tags

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