Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE20HE3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE20HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE20HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16.2VWM 29.1VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,102
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
1.5KE20HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary-level overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 20 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 19.0–21.0 V at 1.0 mA), 17.1 V maximum working voltage (VWM), 27.7 V clamping voltage (VC) at 54.2 A peak pulse current, and 1500 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - used to safeguard MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces in industrial and automotive electronics.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE20HE3/73 datasheet, 1.5KE20HE3/73 pinout, 1.5KE20HE3/73 application, or 1.5KE20HE3/73 equivalent, this device is selected for high-energy transient suppression where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio (VC/VWM ≈ 1.62), and AEC-Q101 qualification (HE3 suffix) are required in harsh-environment designs.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: it remains high-impedance below VWM (17.1 V), avalanches sharply at VBR (19.0–21.0 V), and clamps transients to ≤27.7 V at 54.2 A. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable avalanche characteristics and low leakage (<1.0 µA at VWM).
Thermally, it supports operation from –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature, with RθJA = 75 °C/W and RθJL = 15.4 °C/W. The HE3 suffix confirms RoHS compliance and AEC-Q101 qualification per JESD22-B102 solderability and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 19.0 V / 21.0 V at 1.0 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation window for reliable triggering |
| VWM | 17.1 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V at 54.2 A - clamping voltage limiting downstream component stress during 10/1000 µs surge |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak transient energy absorption capability under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform |
| IFSM | 200 A - non-repetitive forward surge current handling (8.3 ms half-sine), critical for input-stage protection |
| Junction Temp Range | –55 °C to +175 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive and industrial control environments |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes (HE3 suffix) - validated for automotive reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD |
Pinout & Package
Package: Case Style 1.5KE - axial-leaded, molded epoxy body meeting UL 94 V-0 flammability; matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current entry / transient return path | Connected to ground or low-impedance reference in unidirectional clamp configuration |
| Cathode | Protected line connection / avalanche node | Marked by color band; connects to line being protected (e.g., 12 V rail, CAN-H, sensor supply) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable, repeatable avalanche behavior and long-term parameter consistency across thermal cycles |
| 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports robust protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a and IEC 61000-4-5 surges without derating |
| Clamping ratio VC/VWM = 1.62 | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to downstream ICs while maintaining margin above normal operating voltage |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3) | Validated for automotive use including HTOL, temperature humidity bias, and mechanical shock testing |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Reduces voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ESD, inductive switch-off) |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed ECUs from load dump and alternator transients per ISO 7637-2. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional shunt TVS placed between power rail and chassis ground to clamp surges within 1 ns. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤27.7 V during 1500 W pulses, preventing damage to MCU power supplies and CAN transceivers. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) connected to microcontrollers in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS on signal line to suppress ESD and switching noise induced by nearby motor drives. Use Value: Clamps transients before they reach ADC inputs, preserving measurement integrity without signal distortion. |
| Telecom DC Power Input Protection | Consumer Device USB Port Protection |
Use Scenario: Securing 48 V PoE-powered equipment against lightning-induced surges on outdoor cabling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-stage TVS on DC input before DC-DC converter, coordinated with secondary MOV/gas tube stages. Use Value: Absorbs up to 1500 W of surge energy while maintaining <1 µA leakage at 41 V nominal, ensuring standby efficiency. |
Use Scenario: Adding overvoltage resilience to USB VBUS lines in portable chargers and docking stations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS between VBUS and GND to block positive-going transients from hot-plug or adapter faults. Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to clamp 15 kV ESD events to safe levels, protecting USB controller and power management ICs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ20A | DO-214AA package (SMB), 200 W PPPM, lower IPPM (32.4 A), same VBR range (19.0–21.0 V) | Lower surge capacity; suited for space-constrained PCBs where 1500 W is not required | Select SMBJ20A only when board area is critical and surge threat level is limited to IEC 61000-4-2/4-4 |
| 1.5KE20A-E3/54 | Same 1.5KE package and electrical specs, but commercial-grade (non-AEC-Q101), E3 suffix only (JESD201 Class 1A) | Lacks automotive qualification; acceptable for industrial/commercial power supplies with less stringent reliability requirements | Choose 1.5KE20A-E3/54 for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where AEC-Q101 is not mandated |
Compared with 1.5KE20HE3/73, SMBJ20A offers smaller footprint but sacrifices >80 % peak power handling, while 1.5KE20A-E3/54 matches form/fit/function but omits automotive qualification - making 1.5KE20HE3/73 the sole choice for AEC-Q101-compliant 1500 W transient suppression in axial-leaded format.
Availability
1.5KE20HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU protection, industrial sensor interface hardening, and telecom DC input surge suppression requiring stable component supply and full AEC-Q101 traceability.
Supply support for 1.5KE20HE3/73 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 automotive-grade validation.
The 1.5KE family was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in demanding environments, targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where robustness and standardized surge immunity are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the 1.5KE20HE3/73 under maximum rated surge current?
The 1.5KE20HE3/73 clamps to 27.7 V at its peak pulse current (IPPM) of 54.2 A, measured with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed per Vishay's datasheet (Document Number 88301, Rev. 09-Aug-2022) and reflects the maximum voltage seen by downstream circuitry during worst-case transient events. Designers use this VC to verify margin over IC absolute maximum ratings.
Is the 1.5KE20HE3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the 1.5KE20HE3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by its HE3 suffix and documentation in Vishay's 88301 datasheet. It has passed stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing - making it appropriate for engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS power domains where automotive-grade reliability is mandatory.
How does the 1.5KE20HE3/73 differ from the standard 1.5KE20A part?
The 1.5KE20HE3/73 differs from 1.5KE20A in two key ways: it carries the HE3 suffix indicating AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, whereas 1.5KE20A (e.g., -E3/54 variant) is commercial-grade only. Both share identical electrical specs and 1.5KE package, but only 1.5KE20HE3/73 is approved for automotive under-hood use per industry reliability standards.
What is the maximum working voltage (VWM) for the 1.5KE20HE3/73?
The maximum working voltage (VWM) for the 1.5KE20HE3/73 is 17.1 V, defined as the highest DC or RMS voltage the device can withstand continuously without exceeding 1.0 µA reverse leakage current. This value ensures compatibility with 12 V nominal systems while providing sufficient margin below the 19.0–21.0 V breakdown threshold to avoid false triggering during normal operation.
Does the 1.5KE20HE3/73 have polarity marking, and how is it identified?
Yes, the 1.5KE20HE3/73 is unidirectional and features a cathode band - a visible color stripe near one lead end - which identifies the cathode terminal. Per Vishay's datasheet, this band must be oriented toward the line being protected (e.g., 12 V rail), while the anode connects to ground or reference. No marking is present on bidirectional variants, but 1.5KE20HE3/73 is explicitly unidirectional.
1.5KE20HE3/73 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):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 18V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 51.5A
- 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
1.5KE20HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE20HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE20HE3/73 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 1.5KE20HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE20HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE20HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE20HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE20HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE20HE3/73?
1.5KE20HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE20HE3/73 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 1.5KE20HE3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KE20HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE20HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE20HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE20HE3/73 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 1.5KE20HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE20HE3/73?
All 1.5KE20HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE20HE3/73, 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 1.5KE20HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE20HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE20HE3/73 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
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
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 …

