Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation 1.5KE20
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE20
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE20.pdf
- Description:
- 1500W, 20V, 10%, UNIDIRECTIONAL,
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,527
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Product details
Overview
1.5KE20 from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 1500W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode with a nominal breakdown voltage of 20V, minimum VBR of 18.0V at 1.0mA test current, maximum clamping voltage of 29.1V at 54A peak pulse current, and DO-201 package. It protects automotive and industrial power rails from ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/2b/3a/3b transients.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE20 datasheet, 1.5KE20 pinout, 1.5KE20 application, or 1.5KE20 equivalent, this part delivers verified 1500W surge capability at 10/1000μs, sub-1ps response time for unidirectional operation, <1μA leakage above 10V, AEC-Q101 qualification option (H suffix), and RoHS/halogen-free compliance per IEC 61249-2-21.
Technical Context
The 1.5KE20 operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, clamping overvoltage events by entering breakdown when reverse voltage exceeds its 18.0–22.0V VBR range. Its low dynamic impedance ensures stable clamping at 29.1V under 54A 10/1000μs surge, with junction temperature rated from –55°C to +175°C.
It meets ISO 7637-2 immunity requirements for automotive electronics and supports steady-state power dissipation of 5W at 75°C lead temperature. Polarity is marked via cathode band; terminals are pure tin-plated for J-STD-002 solderability and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR @ IT = 1.0mA | 18.0–22.0V - defines precise voltage threshold where avalanche conduction begins under standardized test conditions |
| VWM | 16.2V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before significant leakage; sets safe DC rail margin |
| VC @ IPP = 54A | 29.1V - clamped voltage during 10/1000μs surge; determines protected circuit's maximum stress level |
| PPK | 1500W - peak pulse power handling at TA = 25°C; defines transient energy absorption capacity |
| IPP | 54A - peak impulse current at 10/1000μs waveform; quantifies surge current survivability |
| TJ max | +175°C - maximum junction temperature; enables high-ambient operation in engine bay or industrial enclosures |
| Package | DO-201 - industry-standard axial-leaded package with 0.090g mass and UL 94V-0 molding compound |
Pinout & Package
DO-201 package: axial-leaded, cylindrical epoxy body with cathode band marking polarity. Leads are pure tin-plated, compliant with J-STD-002 solderability and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. Weight ≈ 0.090g.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current path / low-side reference | Connected to system ground or lower-potential node; conducts forward current up to 200A surge (IFSM) |
| Cathode | Transient clamp input / high-side protection node | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12V rail); blocks VWM = 16.2V, avalanches above VBR ≥ 18.0V |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 1500W surge rating at 10/1000μs | Enables robust protection against load dump and inductive switching events in 12V automotive systems |
| Clamping voltage ≤29.1V at 54A | Limits downstream IC stress to safe levels during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 2b (50V/100ms) and Pulse 5a (load dump) |
| Response time <1.0ps (unidirectional) | Ensures clamping activation before transient energy couples into sensitive analog or digital circuitry |
| AEC-Q101 qualified variant available (1.5KE20H) | Validates reliability for automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS applications requiring zero-failure tolerance |
| RoHS and halogen-free (IEC 61249-2-21) | Supports global environmental compliance without compromising thermal or electrical performance |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial PLC Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12V battery-fed ECUs from load dump transients (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and alternator-induced spikes. IC Role / Device Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between power rail and chassis ground to shunt surge current away from downstream regulators and microcontrollers. Use Value: Clamps peak voltage to ≤29.1V during 54A transients, preventing damage to 3.3V/5V logic and CAN transceivers rated for ≤40V absolute maximum. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24V DC inputs of programmable logic controllers against inductive kickback from solenoid valves and relay coils. IC Role / Device Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on field-side input terminals, coordinated with upstream fusing and filtering. Use Value: Absorbs 1500W surges without degradation, maintaining VWM = 16.2V standoff to avoid false triggering during normal 24V operation with ripple. |
| LED Driver Overvoltage Suppression | DC-DC Converter Input Stage Protection |
Use Scenario: Shielding constant-current LED drivers in streetlight and automotive lighting from ESD and lightning-induced surges on long harness runs. IC Role / Device Role: First-line transient suppressor on input bus, placed ahead of bulk capacitors and controller ICs. Use Value: Sub-1ps response ensures clamping initiates before 100ns ESD events reach driver ICs, while 29.1V clamping preserves MOSFET gate oxide integrity. | Use Scenario: Protecting buck converter front-end from voltage reversals and back-EMF during hot-swap or battery insertion in telecom and server power supplies. IC Role / Device Role: Reverse-polarity and overvoltage protector on VIN pin, absorbing both positive and negative transients. Use Value: Withstands 200A non-repetitive forward surge (IFSM), enabling survival of accidental –12V reverse connection or inductive flyback reversal. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ20A | Same DO-214AC (SMA) package; 20V VBR min 18.0V, VC = 32.4V @ 46.7A; 400W rating | Lower power rating limits use to sub-1kW transients; smaller footprint but higher thermal resistance | Select when board space is constrained and surge energy is ≤400W; verify layout thermal relief for sustained 5W dissipation |
| ON Semiconductor 1N6278A | Same JEDEC 1.5KE20 family; tighter VBR tolerance (19.0–21.0V), lower VC = 27.7V @ 56A, identical DO-201 package | Improved clamping performance for noise-sensitive analog circuits; same mounting and qualification path | Prefer for new designs requiring lower clamping voltage; backward-compatible drop-in replacement with enhanced surge margin |
Compared with 1.5KE20, SMAJ20A offers space savings but sacrifices 60% peak power handling and raises clamping voltage by 3.3V, while 1N6278A delivers tighter parametric control and 2.7V lower clamping at marginally higher cost-making it ideal for precision automotive signal protection.
Availability
1.5KE20 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU protection, industrial PLC input stages, LED driver overvoltage suppression, and DC-DC converter input stage protection requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.
Supply support for 1.5KE20 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 semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, rectifiers, and MOSFETs for automotive and industrial markets.
The 1.5KE series was designed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments, targeting ISO 7637-2 compliance and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive power distribution and industrial control systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the 1.5KE20 under standard surge conditions?
The 1.5KE20 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 29.1V when subjected to a 10/1000μs surge waveform at 54A peak current. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by downstream circuitry during worst-case transient events, ensuring compatibility with 3.3V and 5V logic interfaces.
Is the 1.5KE20 suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 qualification?
Yes-the 1.5KE20H variant is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified and listed in Taiwan Semiconductor's automotive-grade documentation. While the base 1.5KE20 is not certified, the H-suffix version shares identical electrical specs and DO-201 packaging, enabling direct qualification-ready deployment in engine control units, body modules, and ADAS power supplies.
What is the working stand-off voltage (VWM) of the 1.5KE20, and why does it matter?
The 1.5KE20 has a working stand-off voltage (VWM) of 16.2V, meaning it remains in high-impedance blocking mode up to this DC or RMS voltage. This parameter is critical for reliable operation on 12V automotive rails, providing a 3.8V margin below the 20V nominal breakdown to prevent leakage-induced power loss or false triggering during normal operation with ripple or load transients.
How does the 1.5KE20 compare to bidirectional TVS diodes like 1.5KE20CA?
The 1.5KE20 is unidirectional and optimized for DC rail protection with cathode-anode polarity, whereas 1.5KE20CA is bidirectional and symmetrical for AC or floating signal lines. The 1.5KE20 offers lower forward voltage (3.5V @ 50A) and higher IFSM (200A), making it superior for 12V/24V power applications-but cannot replace bidirectional types in RS-485 or CAN bus protection without circuit redesign.
What package type and lead finish does the 1.5KE20 use, and how does that affect assembly?
The 1.5KE20 uses the DO-201 axial package with pure tin-plated leads, fully compliant with J-STD-002 solderability requirements and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. This ensures reliable through-hole reflow or wave soldering, eliminates lead-free compatibility concerns, and supports automated optical inspection of the cathode band marking for polarity verification.
1.5KE20 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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 18V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 54A
- 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
1.5KE20 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE20 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE20 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 1.5KE20 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE20 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE20 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE20?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE20 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE20?
1.5KE20 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE20 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 1.5KE20?
For technical support, including 1.5KE20 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE20 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE20 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE20 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 1.5KE20 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE20?
All 1.5KE20 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE20, 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 1.5KE20 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE20:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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