Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE6.8-E3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE6.8-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE6.8-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 5.5VWM 10.8VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,774
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Product details
Overview
1.5KE6.8-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection of DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 6.45 V to 7.14 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 10 mA, 5.80 V maximum working peak reverse voltage (VWM), 1000 µA maximum reverse leakage at VWM, 1500 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and clamps transients to ≤10.5 V at 143 A peak pulse current - deployed in automotive power supply inputs and industrial sensor interface circuits.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 datasheet, 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 pinout, 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 application, or 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, JEDEC 1.5KE package details, polarity marking guidance, clamping performance curves, and direct alternatives with documented voltage and surge current differences.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates as a silicon avalanche device with glass-passivated junction, delivering bidirectional-capable unidirectional clamping action. Its 10.5 V clamping voltage at 143 A ensures robust protection of downstream MOSFETs and ICs against ESD and inductive switching spikes, while its -55 °C to +175 °C operating junction temperature range supports under-hood automotive deployment.
The device uses a standard axial-lead DO-201AD package with cathode band marking, exhibits 0.057 %/°C temperature coefficient of VBR, and maintains stable 1500 W pulse power capability only within the 10/1000 µs waveform envelope - derating linearly above 25 °C ambient per Fig. 2 in the datasheet.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 6.45 V / 7.14 V at 10 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for reliable overvoltage triggering |
| VWM | 5.80 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before leakage exceeds 1000 µA; sets safe DC operating ceiling |
| IPPM | 143 A - peak transient current it safely shunts during 10/1000 µs surge without failure |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤10.5 V - clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during full-rated surge, limiting stress on downstream components |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak pulse power dissipation capacity under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - enables operation in high-temperature environments such as engine control units and power converters |
| Leakage @ VWM | ≤1000 µA - low standby current preserves system efficiency in always-on circuits |
Pinout & Package
1.5KE6.8-E3/73 is housed in a DO-201AD (JEDEC 1.5KE) axial-leaded package with matte tin-plated leads. The cathode is marked by a color band on one end; no marking is used for bidirectional variants.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., ground or return path) in unidirectional configuration |
| Cathode (banded end) | Avalanche clamping terminal | Connected to protected line (e.g., 5 V rail); conducts when reverse voltage exceeds VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable long-term VBR tolerance and resistance to humidity-induced parameter drift |
| 1500 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Handles high-energy transients from relay coil collapse or load dump without degradation |
| ≤10.5 V clamping at 143 A | Keeps protected ICs below absolute maximum ratings during worst-case surge events |
| Response time ≤1 ns | Clamps before sensitive logic or analog circuitry can be damaged by fast-rising transients |
| RoHS-compliant E3 suffix | Meets JESD 201 Class 1A whisker test and J-STD-002 solderability standards for automated assembly |
Applications
| Automotive Power Input Protection | Industrial Sensor Signal Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 5 V microcontroller power input in vehicle body control modules exposed to ISO 7637-2 load dump pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between VIN and GND to clamp surges >5.8 V before they reach LDO or MCU VDD. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤10.5 V during 143 A transients, preventing latch-up or gate oxide rupture in downstream ICs. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485 transceiver data lines in factory automation PLC I/O modules subject to EFT and lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS mounted across differential pair (A/B) and referenced to local ground to suppress common-mode transients. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response ensures clamping occurs before transceiver input stages are overstressed, preserving signal integrity and device lifetime. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Output Protection | Telecom DC Power Feeding Protection |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side overvoltage suppression in 12 V wall adapters for smart home hubs, guarding against regulator failure or feedback loop loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS connected from output rail to ground, sized to absorb 1500 W surges without thermal runaway. Use Value: Maintains 5.8 V standoff while clamping to 10.5 V, enabling use with 12 V systems without false triggering during normal ripple. | Use Scenario: Protecting PoE-powered network switches from induced surges on 48 V DC feeding lines running alongside AC mains in building infrastructure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TVS installed at PSE port entry point to divert surge energy before reaching DC-DC converter and Ethernet PHY. Use Value: 175 °C max junction temperature rating allows reliable operation in enclosed telecom cabinets with elevated ambient temperatures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ6.8A | Lower 600 W PPPM, SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package, 10.5 V VC @ 59.5 A | Designed for PCB space-constrained designs; lacks axial-lead mechanical robustness for high-vibration environments | Select SMBJ6.8A only when board area is critical and surge energy is ≤600 W; not suitable for load dump compliance where 1500 W is mandated. |
| 1.5KE6.8AHE3_B | Identical electrical specs but AEC-Q101 qualified, HE3 suffix denotes JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance | Approved for automotive safety-critical ECUs requiring qualification evidence; same footprint and solder profile as 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 | Choose 1.5KE6.8AHE3_B for production automotive programs needing formal qualification documentation; otherwise 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 suffices for commercial-grade applications. |
Compared with SMBJ6.8A, 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 delivers 2.5× higher surge power handling in an axial package suited for high-reliability wiring harness interfaces; versus 1.5KE6.8AHE3_B, it lacks AEC-Q101 certification but shares identical clamping behavior and thermal limits - making it ideal for cost-sensitive industrial and consumer designs where qualification is not required.
Availability
1.5KE6.8-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power input protection, industrial sensor signal line protection, and consumer power adapter output protection requiring stable component supply, consistent lot-to-lot parametric performance, and traceable RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for 1.5KE6.8-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, ruggedness, and application-specific validation.
The 1.5KE series was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where sustained surge immunity and thermal stability are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance of the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73?
The 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 has a guaranteed breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 6.45 V to 7.14 V at 10 mA test current, representing ±5% tolerance around the nominal 6.8 V rating. This tight spread ensures predictable clamping onset across production lots and supports accurate system-level overvoltage margin analysis without derating overhead.
Does the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 meet automotive qualification standards?
The 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 is RoHS-compliant and rated for operation from -55 °C to +175 °C, but it is not AEC-Q101 qualified. For automotive applications requiring formal qualification, the functionally identical 1.5KE6.8AHE3_B variant - which carries AEC-Q101 certification and Class 2 whisker resistance - should be selected instead of the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73.
How does the clamping voltage of the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 compare to its breakdown voltage?
The 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 clamps to ≤10.5 V at its rated 143 A peak pulse current, which is approximately 46% above its minimum breakdown voltage of 6.45 V. This incremental clamping voltage (ΔVC = VC – VBR) of ~4.05 V reflects low dynamic impedance and confirms effective energy diversion during high-current transients - a key metric for protecting 5 V logic rails.
Can the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 be used in bidirectional configurations?
No - the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 is a unidirectional TVS diode, identified by the "A" suffix and cathode band marking. Bidirectional variants require the "CA" suffix (e.g., 1.5KE6.8CA). Using 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 in reverse-biased AC applications would result in forward conduction and potential failure; always verify polarity marking and suffix before placement.
What is the thermal resistance of the 1.5KE6.8-E3/73, and how does it affect layout?
The 1.5KE6.8-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. To maintain safe operation under repetitive surges, PCB layout must provide adequate copper pour on both leads - especially the cathode - and avoid excessive trace length or narrow traces that impede heat transfer away from the DO-201AD body.
1.5KE6.8-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):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 6.12V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 10.8V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 139A
- 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
1.5KE6.8-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE6.8-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 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE6.8-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 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE6.8-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE6.8-E3/73?
1.5KE6.8-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE6.8-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 1.5KE6.8-E3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE6.8-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 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE6.8-E3/73?
All 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE6.8-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 1.5KE6.8-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE6.8-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE6.8-E3/73 Tags

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Diodes Incorporated

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Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

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