Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation 1V5KE6V8A

Overview

1V5KE6V8A from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-201 package, rated for 1500W peak pulse power at 1.0ms, with breakdown voltage 6.45–7.14V at 10mA test current, reverse stand-off voltage 5.80V, and clamping voltage 10.5V at 143A peak pulse current. It protects sensitive ICs and systems against ESD, electrical fast transients, and inductive switching surges.

For engineers reviewing the 1V5KE6V8A datasheet, 1V5KE6V8A pinout, 1V5KE6V8A application, or 1V5KE6V8A equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low incremental surge resistance, sub-1μA reverse leakage above 10V, RoHS/halogen-free compliance, and DO-201 mechanical compatibility with standard through-hole PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The 1V5KE6V8A operates as a bipolar junction TVS device with symmetrical avalanche characteristics in both directions, enabling robust protection without polarity sensitivity. Its glass-passivated chip junction ensures stable breakdown behavior and low dynamic impedance during transient events.

Designed for unidirectional and bidirectional configurations (CA suffix denotes bidirectional), it delivers fast response time and excellent clamping performance across industrial temperature range (−55°C to +175°C), with junction temperature rating aligned to high-reliability power supply and automotive subsystem applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

1V5KE6V8A uses the DO-201 axial-leaded package with two terminals: anode and cathode marked by a band on the cathode end for unidirectional variants; for bidirectional use (as indicated by CA suffix), polarity marking does not define functional directionality - both terminals behave identically under reverse or forward surge conditions.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ6.8CA and P6KE6.8CA, the 1V5KE6V8A provides 2.5× higher peak pulse power in the same axial DO-201 footprint, enabling single-device protection for demanding industrial and automotive surge profiles without layout redesign.

Availability

1V5KE6V8A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for lighting surge protection, industrial sensor interface protection, and automotive body control module designs requiring stable component supply and full compliance with IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 standards.

Supply support for 1V5KE6V8A 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 specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, rectifiers, and MOSFETs, headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan.

The 1V5KE6V8A belongs to TSC's 1500W axial TVS family designed specifically for high-energy transient suppression in industrial power supplies, automotive subsystems, and outdoor LED lighting systems.

FAQ

What does the "CA" suffix mean in 1V5KE6V8A?

The "CA" suffix in 1V5KE6V8A indicates a bidirectional configuration, meaning the device provides symmetrical clamping in both polarities. This eliminates the need for polarity-aware placement on PCBs and enables protection of AC-coupled or floating signal paths. The 1V5KE6V8A achieves this via matched avalanche characteristics across both terminals, unlike unidirectional variants that require correct anode/cathode orientation.

What is the maximum clamping voltage of 1V5KE6V8A under surge conditions?

The maximum clamping voltage of 1V5KE6V8A is 10.5V at a peak pulse current of 143A, measured under standardized 10/1000μs waveform conditions. This value represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during worst-case transient events and is critical for ensuring downstream components remain within their absolute maximum ratings during surge exposure.

Is 1V5KE6V8A suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, 1V5KE6V8A is suitable for automotive applications including body control modules and lighting systems due to its −55°C to +175°C junction temperature range, 1500W peak pulse power rating, and compliance with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load dump requirements. Its DO-201 package supports robust mechanical mounting in under-hood environments, and its low leakage (<1μA above 10V) minimizes parasitic drain in always-on vehicle subsystems.

How does 1V5KE6V8A compare to unidirectional TVS diodes in terms of circuit design?

Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the 1V5KE6V8A simplifies circuit design by removing polarity constraints - it functions identically regardless of orientation on the PCB. This reduces assembly errors and eliminates the need for polarity-specific routing or silkscreen markings. Its bidirectional behavior also makes it ideal for protecting differential or AC-coupled interfaces where voltage reversals occur naturally during normal operation.

What packaging options are available for 1V5KE6V8A?

1V5KE6V8A is supplied in DO-201 package with two standard packing formats: 1,250 units per tape-and-reel (for automated SMT placement with axial lead forming) and 500 units per ammo box (for manual or semi-automated through-hole insertion). Both options feature pure tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability standards and meet JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance requirements.