Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE16C-E3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE16C-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE16C-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12.9VWM 23.5VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,820
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
1.5KE16C-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for clamping voltage transients on signal and power lines. It features a 16 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 15.2–16.8 V at IT = 1.0 mA), 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), and clamps to ≤22.5 V at 66.7 A peak pulse current - used in automotive sensor interface protection and industrial I/O line surge suppression.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE16C-E3/73 datasheet, 1.5KE16C-E3/73 pinout, 1.5KE16C-E3/73 application, or 1.5KE16C-E3/73 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, JEDEC 1.5KE package details, bidirectional clamping behavior, thermal derating curves, and RoHS-compliant commercial-grade sourcing support at Aetrix Electronics.
Technical Context
This device operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, optimized for fast transient response (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance. Its bidirectional structure enables symmetrical clamping in AC-coupled or floating signal paths without polarity concerns.
Rated for -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature, it supports high-reliability applications with 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance and meets JESD 22-B106 soldering requirements (275 °C, 10 s). The E3 suffix confirms RoHS compliance and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 15.2 V / 16.8 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise clamping onset threshold under transient stress |
| VWM | 13.6 V maximum working voltage - sets safe DC/AC operating limit before leakage rises |
| VC @ IPPM | 22.5 V clamping voltage at 66.7 A peak pulse - determines worst-case voltage seen by protected IC |
| PPPM | 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) - sustains high-energy surges common in automotive load dump or lightning-induced spikes |
| IPPM | 66.7 A peak pulse current - quantifies surge current handling capacity before failure |
| TJ max. | +175 °C maximum junction temperature - enables operation in under-hood or industrial control cabinet environments |
| RθJA | 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance - informs heatsinking needs for sustained power dissipation |
Pinout & Package
Package: JEDEC Case Style 1.5KE - molded epoxy body with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated, 0.375" (9.5 mm) lead length, 0.042" (1.07 mm) lead diameter.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point in forward bias | Connects to lower-potential side of protected line; forms symmetrical clamp path with cathode |
| Cathode | Current entry point in reverse bias | Connects to higher-potential side; together with anode, enables bidirectional voltage limiting |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable avalanche characteristics and long-term reliability under repeated surge events |
| Bidirectional clamping | Eliminates polarity marking requirement and supports AC or floating signal line protection |
| 1500 W peak pulse rating | Meets IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity requirements for industrial and automotive interfaces |
| Fast <1 ns response time | Clamps transients before sensitive downstream circuitry experiences overvoltage damage |
| RoHS-compliant E3 suffix | Guarantees lead-free assembly compatibility and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | 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: Bidirectional TVS placed across differential or single-ended signal lines to clamp ±22.5 V transients. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide rupture in 3.3 V/5 V microcontrollers and analog front-ends during vehicle battery disconnect events. | Use Scenario: Shielding digital input modules from induced surges on 24 V DC field wiring exposed to relay switching and motor noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff voltage (13.6 V) ensures no conduction during normal operation; clamps >15.2 V transients within nanoseconds. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by preventing false triggering or permanent damage to optocoupler inputs and FPGA I/O banks. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Appliance Control Board |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding Ethernet PHY or RS-485 transceivers connected to outdoor cabling subject to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed between connector and transceiver to shunt energy before reaching ESD-sensitive silicon. Use Value: Achieves >15 kV contact ESD immunity (IEC 61000-4-2) and withstands 10/1000 µs surges up to 1500 W without degradation. | Use Scenario: Protecting microcontroller GPIOs and display driver lines in washing machines or HVAC controllers from motor commutation spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unmarked bidirectional configuration simplifies PCB layout and eliminates polarity assembly errors. Use Value: Reduces field return rates by suppressing >1 kV fast transients generated by brushed motor brushes and solenoid coils. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ16CA | 600 W peak pulse power (vs. 1500 W); SMA package (smaller footprint, higher RθJA) | Limited to lower-energy transients; unsuitable for automotive load dump or industrial 4 kV surges | Select when board space is constrained and surge threat level is ≤IEC 61000-4-5 Level 2 |
| 1.5SMC16CA | Same 1500 W rating but SMC package (higher thermal mass, lower RθJA ≈ 35 °C/W) | Better thermal performance for repetitive surge duty cycles; requires larger PCB area | Prefer for high-temperature environments (>105 °C ambient) or frequent transient exposure |
Compared with 1.5KE16C-E3/73, SMBJ16CA offers compact size but sacrifices surge robustness, while 1.5SMC16CA improves thermal management at the cost of footprint - making 1.5KE16C-E3/73 optimal for cost-sensitive, medium-duty commercial applications requiring proven JEDEC 1.5KE reliability.
Availability
1.5KE16C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial PLC I/O hardening, and telecom line interface designs requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for 1.5KE16C-E3/73 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, rectifiers, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability and ruggedized performance.
The 1.5KE series was engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure - balancing surge capability, thermal robustness, and JEDEC-standardized manufacturability.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance for 1.5KE16C-E3/73?
The 1.5KE16C-E3/73 has a specified breakdown voltage range of 15.2 V to 16.8 V at 1.0 mA test current, per Vishay Document 88301. This ±5.3% tolerance ensures consistent clamping behavior across production lots and supports reliable design margining against overvoltage events. The value is measured under controlled conditions and applies to both directions due to its bidirectional construction.
Is 1.5KE16C-E3/73 RoHS compliant and lead-free?
Yes, the 1.5KE16C-E3/73 carries the E3 suffix, which certifies full RoHS compliance and lead-free construction per EU Directive 2011/65/EU. It also meets JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance requirements and is qualified for solder reflow up to 275 °C for 10 seconds, ensuring compatibility with standard lead-free assembly processes.
How does the clamping voltage of 1.5KE16C-E3/73 compare to its breakdown voltage?
The 1.5KE16C-E3/73 clamps to a maximum of 22.5 V at its rated peak pulse current of 66.7 A (10/1000 µs waveform), while its breakdown voltage starts at 15.2 V. This 7.3 V differential reflects the device's incremental surge resistance and defines the worst-case overvoltage imposed on protected circuitry - critical for verifying compatibility with 3.3 V or 5 V logic rails.
Can 1.5KE16C-E3/73 be used in place of a unidirectional TVS like 1.5KE16A?
No - the 1.5KE16C-E3/73 is strictly bidirectional and lacks polarity marking, whereas 1.5KE16A is unidirectional with a cathode band. Substituting them requires verifying circuit topology: 1.5KE16C-E3/73 suits AC-coupled, floating, or differential lines; 1.5KE16A is required for DC-biased single-ended paths where forward conduction must be blocked.
What is the maximum operating temperature for 1.5KE16C-E3/73?
The 1.5KE16C-E3/73 has a maximum junction temperature (TJ) of +175 °C and an operating storage range of -55 °C to +175 °C. Its thermal resistance (RθJA = 75 °C/W) means that at 6.5 W steady-state dissipation, ambient temperature must remain below ~125 °C to avoid exceeding TJ max - making it suitable for under-hood automotive or enclosed industrial control applications.
1.5KE16C-E3/73 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:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12.9V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 14.4V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 23.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 63.8A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 1.5KE
1.5KE16C-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE16C-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE16C-E3/73 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 1.5KE16C-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE16C-E3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE16C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE16C-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE16C-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE16C-E3/73?
1.5KE16C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE16C-E3/73 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 1.5KE16C-E3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KE16C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE16C-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE16C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE16C-E3/73 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 1.5KE16C-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE16C-E3/73?
All 1.5KE16C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE16C-E3/73, 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 1.5KE16C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE16C-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE16C-E3/73 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
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
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…

