Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE170-E3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE170-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE170-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 138VWM 244VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,255
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Product details
Overview
1.5KE170-E3/73 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 170 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 162–179 V at 1 mA), 145 V maximum working voltage (VWM), 234 V clamping voltage (VC) at 6.4 A peak pulse current, 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), and operates across –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature range - deployed in automotive power supply inputs and industrial sensor interface protection.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE170-E3/73 datasheet, 1.5KE170-E3/73 pinout, 1.5KE170-E3/73 application, or 1.5KE170-E3/73 equivalent, this part serves as a high-energy, fast-response (sub-nanosecond) unidirectional TVS for robust surge immunity in 24 V/48 V systems, motor drive control circuits, and telecom line card front-ends where clamping precision and thermal stability under repetitive transients are critical selection criteria.
Technical Context
This device implements a glass-passivated silicon PN junction optimized for transient suppression with low incremental surge resistance and excellent clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.45). Its unidirectional polarity enables cathode-referenced placement on positive-rail protection paths, and its 1.5KE case style supports through-hole mounting with matte tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002 solderability standards.
Thermal performance is defined by RθJL = 15.4 °C/W (junction-to-lead) and RθJA = 75 °C/W (junction-to-ambient), enabling reliable operation up to 175 °C junction temperature. The 1.5KE170-E3/73 is RoHS-compliant (E3 suffix), commercial-grade, and not AEC-Q101 qualified - distinguishing it from HE3-suffix variants.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 162 V / 179 V at 1 mA - defines precise voltage threshold at which avalanche conduction initiates reliably under transient stress |
| VWM | 145 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS operating voltage before leakage exceeds 1 µA, ensuring no false triggering during normal operation |
| VC @ IPPM | 234 V at 6.4 A - clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during full 1500 W surge, limiting downstream stress |
| PPPM | 1500 W (10/1000 µs waveform) - peak transient energy absorption capacity without failure, suitable for lightning-induced surges per IEC 61000-4-5 |
| IFSM | 200 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - surge current handling capability for short-duration AC line faults or inductive switch-off events |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - extended thermal rating allows use in under-hood automotive or high-temperature industrial enclosures without derating |
| Package | Case Style 1.5KE - axial-leaded DO-201AD package (0.375" lead length), compatible with standard through-hole PCB assembly and manual rework |
Pinout & Package
1.5KE170-E3/73 uses the standard DO-201AD (Case Style 1.5KE) axial-leaded package. The cathode is marked by a color band on the body; the anode is unmarked. Leads are matte tin-plated and solderable per J-STD-002.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked end) | Current entry terminal in forward bias; connected to system ground or low-side reference in unidirectional TVS configuration | Provides return path during clamping; must be routed with low-inductance trace to minimize overshoot |
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient voltage sensing and clamping node; connected to protected line (e.g., +24 V rail or signal input) | Acts as the high-impedance monitoring point until VBR exceeded; then conducts avalanche current to shunt energy to ground |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and long-term reliability under humidity and thermal cycling stress |
| 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports Level 4 IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity (4 kV line-earth, 2 kV line-line) in properly filtered designs |
| Sub-nanosecond response time | Clamps transients before IC damage occurs - faster than MOVs or GDTs, critical for protecting MOSFET gates and microcontroller I/O |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC rise under high di/dt, improving clamping accuracy and reducing let-through energy to downstream components |
| RoHS-compliant E3 suffix | Meets JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance, enabling use in commercial-grade industrial and telecom equipment without lead-free process concerns |
Applications
| Automotive Power Input Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 24 V battery-fed ECUs against load dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and alternator ripple-induced transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between +24 V rail and chassis ground, acting as first-line voltage clamp before LDO or DC-DC converter input. Use Value: Clamps peak voltage to ≤234 V, preventing overvoltage damage to upstream regulators and ensuring system reset integrity during 120 V/500 ms load dump events. | Use Scenario: Shielding analog sensor outputs (e.g., 4–20 mA loop or thermocouple amplifier) from ESD and cable-coupled surges in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS mounted at connector entry point, referenced to signal ground, suppressing ±8 kV contact ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) and 1 kV ring wave transients. Use Value: Sub-ns response limits voltage excursion to <234 V, preserving ADC input integrity and avoiding latch-up in op-amp front-ends without adding RC filtering delay. |
| Telecom Line Card Surge Protection | Motor Drive Control Board DC Bus Protection |
Use Scenario: Front-end protection of Ethernet PHY or xDSL line interface ICs exposed to induced lightning surges on outdoor copper pairs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS on VDD supply rail of line driver/receiver, coordinated with series impedance and common-mode chokes. Use Value: Absorbs 1500 W surge energy while maintaining VC ≤234 V, meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 3 telecom surge requirements without sacrificing signal bandwidth. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding gate drivers and bootstrap capacitors on 48 V BLDC motor controllers subjected to back-EMF spikes during commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS placed across high-side gate driver supply (e.g., VB–VS) to clamp inductive kickback from bootstrap diode reverse recovery. Use Value: Limits transient overshoot to ≤234 V, preventing gate oxide rupture in 60 V-rated MOSFETs and eliminating need for oversized gate resistors or snubbers. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5KE170A-E3/54 | Different packaging: 13" paper tape and reel (1400 pcs), same electrical specs and DO-201AD package | No functional difference; suited for automated SMT placement via pick-and-place feeders instead of bulk/tray handling | Select 1.5KE170A-E3/54 when integrating into high-volume PCB assembly with tape-and-reel logistics. |
| SMBJ170A | Surface-mount SMB package (smaller footprint, lower RθJA = 40 °C/W), same VBR (162–179 V), but lower PPPM = 600 W | Not suitable for 1500 W surge events; appropriate only for board-level ESD or lower-energy transients where space constraints prohibit axial-leaded devices | Choose SMBJ170A only if layout space is limited and surge threat level is capped at IEC 61000-4-2 ESD or Level 2 IEC 61000-4-5 (1 kV differential). |
Compared with 1.5KE170-E3/73, the 1.5KE170A-E3/54 offers identical protection performance in a tape-and-reel format for automated manufacturing, while SMBJ170A trades peak power capability for compactness - making the 1.5KE170-E3/73 the sole choice for high-energy, through-hole–based surge protection requiring full 1500 W rating.
Availability
1.5KE170-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power input protection, industrial sensor signal line protection, and telecom line card surge protection requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for 1.5KE170-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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, power handling, and automotive qualification.
The 1.5KE series was engineered specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting industrial power supplies, transportation electronics, and infrastructure equipment where robustness against lightning, load dump, and EFT events is non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance for 1.5KE170-E3/73?
The 1.5KE170-E3/73 has a specified breakdown voltage range of 162 V to 179 V at 1 mA test current, corresponding to a ±5 % tolerance around the nominal 170 V rating. This tight VBR window ensures predictable clamping onset and compatibility with system overvoltage thresholds defined in standards like ISO 7637-2 and IEC 61000-4-5. The 1.5KE170-E3/73 maintains this specification across its full operating temperature range.
Is 1.5KE170-E3/73 AEC-Q101 qualified?
No, the 1.5KE170-E3/73 is a commercial-grade part with the E3 suffix indicating RoHS compliance and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance, but not AEC-Q101 qualification. For automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101, the HE3-suffix variant (e.g., 1.5KE170AHE3_B) must be selected - it shares identical electrical parameters but undergoes additional stress testing per the AEC standard. The 1.5KE170-E3/73 remains suitable for non-safety-critical industrial and telecom uses.
What is the clamping voltage of 1.5KE170-E3/73 at its rated peak pulse current?
The 1.5KE170-E3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 234 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 6.4 A, measured using the standardized 10/1000 µs double-exponential waveform. This value represents the worst-case voltage imposed on the protected circuit during a full 1500 W transient event and is critical for verifying margin against downstream component absolute maximum ratings. The 1.5KE170-E3/73 achieves this with low incremental surge resistance for minimal VC overshoot.
Can 1.5KE170-E3/73 be used in bidirectional configurations?
No, the 1.5KE170-E3/73 is a unidirectional TVS diode, identifiable by its cathode band marking and specified VBR/VWM values for single-polarity operation. Bidirectional variants in the 1.5KE family use the "CA" suffix (e.g., 1.5KE170CA) and are only available up to 1.5KE220CA per the datasheet. Using the 1.5KE170-E3/73 in reverse-biased AC applications would result in forward conduction and potential failure; always verify polarity alignment in schematic and layout for the 1.5KE170-E3/73.
What is the thermal resistance of 1.5KE170-E3/73, and how does it affect layout?
The 1.5KE170-E3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 15.4 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RθJA) of 75 °C/W under standard conditions (7.2 mm lead length, free air). To maintain safe operation at full 1500 W surge duty, PCB layout must maximize copper area connected to both leads - especially the cathode - and avoid excessive trace length or narrow traces that increase thermal impedance. The 1.5KE170-E3/73 relies on lead conduction for heat dissipation, not pad-based convection.
1.5KE170-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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 138V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 153V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 244V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 6.1A
- 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
1.5KE170-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE170-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE170-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 1.5KE170-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE170-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 1.5KE170-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE170-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE170-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE170-E3/73?
1.5KE170-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE170-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 1.5KE170-E3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KE170-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE170-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE170-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE170-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 1.5KE170-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE170-E3/73?
All 1.5KE170-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE170-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 1.5KE170-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE170-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE170-E3/73 Tags

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