Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation 1V5KE170CA

Overview

1V5KE170CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional 1500W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-201 package, with breakdown voltage 162–179 V, reverse stand-off voltage 145 V, clamping voltage 234 V at 6.4 A peak pulse current, and operating junction temperature range −55 °C to +175 °C. It protects power rails and I/O lines in industrial motor drives and telecom power supplies against ESD and lightning-induced surges.

For engineers reviewing the 1V5KE170CA datasheet, 1V5KE170CA pinout, 1V5KE170CA application, or 1V5KE170CA equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, 1 ms surge rating, low incremental surge resistance, and compliance with IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 immunity standards for robust system-level protection.

Technical Context

The 1V5KE170CA operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, enabling fast response (<1 ns) to transients and stable clamping across temperature. Its bidirectional structure supports symmetrical protection of AC-coupled or floating signal paths without polarity concerns.

Designed for single-pulse 10/1000 µs waveform compliance, it delivers 1500 W peak pulse power at T_p = 1 ms with clamping voltage tightly controlled at 234 V - critical for safeguarding 150 V-rated MOSFETs and gate drivers in DC-link circuits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-201 axial leaded case with cathode band marking; RoHS-compliant, halogen-free molding compound (UL 94V-0), pure tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with SMBJ170CA and 1N6297A, the 1V5KE170CA offers higher surge energy handling in the same axial package, making it optimal for high-reliability industrial power systems where PCB real estate permits through-hole mounting and full Level 4 surge immunity is mandated.

Availability

1V5KE170CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, telecom power supplies, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for 1V5KE170CA 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 analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, serving global industrial, computing, and communications markets since 1979.

The 1V5KE series is part of TSC's high-power TVS portfolio engineered specifically for system-level EMC compliance - emphasizing ruggedness, repeatable clamping, and extended temperature reliability in harsh environments.

FAQ

What does the "CA" suffix mean in 1V5KE170CA?

The "CA" suffix in 1V5KE170CA indicates a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping in both polarities, with identical breakdown and clamping characteristics for positive and negative transients. This eliminates the need for polarity-aware placement and supports AC-coupled or floating signal protection. The 1V5KE170CA achieves this using a back-to-back diode structure inside the DO-201 package.

What is the maximum clamping voltage of 1V5KE170CA under standard test conditions?

The maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 1V5KE170CA is 234 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 6.4 A under the 10/1000 µs waveform condition. This value is measured at T_A = 25 °C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The 1V5KE170CA maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.

Can 1V5KE170CA be used in place of a unidirectional TVS like 1V5KE170A?

No - the 1V5KE170CA is bidirectional and cannot directly replace the unidirectional 1V5KE170A without circuit review. While both share the same V_BR and V_C ratings, the unidirectional version conducts only in reverse bias and requires correct anode/cathode orientation. Substituting 1V5KE170CA may cause unintended conduction in DC-biased paths. The 1V5KE170CA is intended for AC or floating applications where polarity independence is required.

What is the leakage current specification for 1V5KE170CA at its rated V_RWM?

At its reverse stand-off voltage (V_RWM) of 145 V, the 1V5KE170CA exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (I_R) of 5 µA at T_A = 25 °C. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss and avoids interference with high-impedance monitoring circuits. Leakage remains below 10 µA up to +125 °C, supporting reliable operation in thermally demanding environments.

Is 1V5KE170CA compliant with halogen-free and RoHS requirements?

Yes - the 1V5KE170CA is fully RoHS compliant and halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21. Its molding compound meets UL 94V-0 flammability rating, and its pure tin-plated leads satisfy J-STD-002 solderability requirements. These qualifications are confirmed in Taiwan Semiconductor's official documentation (Version D2112) and support environmentally regulated industrial and telecom deployments.