Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division BZW04-256-E3/54
- Part No.:
- BZW04-256-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
BZW04-256-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 256VWM 414VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,595
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BZW04-256-E3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-41 package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of signal and power lines. It features a 256 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 285–315 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 414 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with 10/1000 μs waveform, and clamps to ≤414 V under surge-used in industrial sensor interfaces, automotive control modules, and telecom line protection.
For engineers reviewing the BZW04-256-E3/54 datasheet, BZW04-256-E3/54 pinout, BZW04-256-E3/54 application, or BZW04-256-E3/54 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, DO-41 terminal mapping, AEC-Q101 qualification status, clamping performance at rated surge, and direct alternatives for ESD/surge-hardened designs requiring stable 256 V standoff.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically in both polarities, with identical VBR, VC, and IPPM specifications regardless of voltage polarity-enabling single-device protection of AC-coupled or differential signal paths. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM) and low incremental surge resistance for consistent clamping.
The device sustains 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), derates linearly above 25 °C per Fig. 2, and maintains operation across –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature. It meets JESD22-B102 solderability and JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance, with UL 94 V-0 molded epoxy encapsulation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 256 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins; defines safe working margin for protected circuitry. |
| VBR (min/max) | 285 V / 315 V at 1 mA - Verified breakdown threshold range; ensures reliable triggering without premature conduction during transients. |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤414 V at 414 A - Clamped voltage during full-rated 10/1000 μs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on downstream components. |
| IPPM | 414 A - Peak surge current capability; supports high-energy lightning or inductive-switching transients per IEC 61000-4-5. |
| PPPM | 400 W - Peak pulse power rating; defines transient energy absorption capacity under standardized 10/1000 μs waveform. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables use in under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial environments. |
| Leakage @ VWM | ≤1.0 μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage at rated standoff; prevents signal distortion or bias shift in high-impedance circuits. |
Pinout & Package
DO-41 (DO-204AL) axial-leaded package: hermetically sealed glass passivated chip in flame-retardant epoxy, 0.205" (5.2 mm) body diameter, 0.107" (2.7 mm) lead diameter, 1.0" (25.4 mm) minimum overall length. Matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked end) | Current entry point in forward bias; common connection in bidirectional configuration | No polarity marking on BZW04-256-E3/54 - symmetrical terminals enable either orientation in PCB layout for AC or differential line protection. |
| Cathode (unmarked end) | Current exit point in forward bias; functionally identical to anode in bidirectional mode | Identical electrical behavior in both directions eliminates need for orientation-aware placement; simplifies automated assembly and routing. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Identical VBR, VC, and IPPM in both polarities - protects AC signals, RS-485 buses, and transformer-coupled interfaces without polarity constraints. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements - supports use in engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules. |
| Glass-passivated junction | Stable parametric performance over temperature and lifetime - minimizes parameter drift and leakage increase in harsh thermal cycling environments. |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Self-extinguishing epoxy housing - satisfies flammability safety requirements for industrial and telecom equipment enclosures. |
| 400 W 10/1000 μs rating | Robust surge immunity per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 - withstands 4 kV line-to-earth surges in industrial automation and building control systems. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Interface | Automotive Body Control Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 4–20 mA current-loop sensors in factory-floor PLC I/O modules against EFT and lightning-induced surges on long cable runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp placed across sensor input terminals, shunting transient energy to ground before it reaches precision ADC or op-amp front-end. Use Value: Limits voltage excursion to ≤414 V during 400 W surges, preserving 24 V system integrity and preventing latch-up or damage to analog signal conditioning ICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding LIN bus transceivers and microcontroller GPIOs in door module ECUs exposed to load-dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS connected between LIN data line and chassis ground, absorbing reverse-polarity and positive-going spikes without polarity sensitivity. Use Value: Enables compliance with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a tests while maintaining <1.0 μA leakage at 256 V standby, minimizing battery drain in sleep mode. |
| Telecom Line Card Protection | Power Supply Input Stage |
Use Scenario: Guarding Ethernet PHY interface transformers and PoE detection circuitry against induced surges from nearby AC mains or lightning coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS mounted directly at RJ45 connector, clamping common-mode transients before they couple into magnetics or PHY IC. Use Value: Delivers 414 A surge handling with ≤414 V clamping, ensuring transformer insulation remains within 1.5 kV isolation rating and PHY survives repeated 10/1000 μs events. |
Use Scenario: Suppressing switching noise and line surges on 24 V DC input rails feeding industrial HMIs, motor drives, and programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across bulk input capacitor, clamping fast-rising transients generated by relay contact bounce or nearby arc welding. Use Value: Absorbs 400 W pulses without degradation, maintaining VWM = 256 V to avoid conduction during normal 24 V operation while protecting downstream DC-DC converters. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ250A | Unidirectional; 250 V VWM; SMA package; 200 W PPPM; 125 A IPPM | Limited to DC-biased lines; lower surge rating; surface-mount only | Select when board space is constrained and unidirectional protection suffices; not suitable for AC or floating differential lines. |
| 1.5KE250CA | Unidirectional/bidirectional option; 250 V VWM; DO-201 package; 1500 W PPPM; 280 A IPPM | Higher surge rating but larger DO-201 footprint; higher leakage (5.0 μA) | Choose for higher-energy threat environments where PCB real estate allows larger case and leakage tolerance exists. |
Compared with BZW04-256-E3/54, SMBJ250A offers compact SMT packaging but sacrifices 50% peak power and bidirectionality; 1.5KE250CA provides greater surge margin in a larger through-hole package but increases leakage and requires layout revision-BZW04-256-E3/54 balances DO-41 compatibility, AEC-Q101 qualification, and precise 256 V standoff for mid-energy industrial and automotive protection.
Availability
BZW04-256-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, automotive body control modules, and telecom line card protection requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant sourcing, and AEC-Q101 validation.
Supply support for BZW04-256-E3/54 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 designs and manufactures discrete semiconductors including diodes, rectifiers, and TVS devices, with emphasis on reliability, ruggedness, and automotive-grade qualification.
The BZW04 series targets high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments-engineered for industrial automation, automotive subsystems, and telecom infrastructure where sustained surge immunity and temperature stability are critical.
FAQ
What is the exact breakdown voltage range for BZW04-256-E3/54?
The BZW04-256-E3/54 has a guaranteed breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 285 V to 315 V at 1 mA test current, as specified in the Vishay datasheet Document Number 88316. This range ensures reliable turn-on during overvoltage events while avoiding false triggering under normal 256 V operating conditions. The BZW04-256-E3/54 maintains this specification across its full temperature range and lifetime.
Is BZW04-256-E3/54 bidirectional or unidirectional?
BZW04-256-E3/54 is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor, meaning it provides symmetrical clamping in both voltage polarities-no cathode marking is present, and electrical characteristics (VBR, VC, IPPM) are identical for positive and negative surges. This makes the BZW04-256-E3/54 ideal for AC signal lines, differential buses, and floating grounds where polarity cannot be assumed.
Does BZW04-256-E3/54 meet AEC-Q101 qualification?
Yes, BZW04-256-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed in the Vishay datasheet revision 16-Sep-2021 (Document Number 88316), footnote (1) on page 4. This qualification validates its suitability for automotive applications including engine compartments, body electronics, and ADAS sensor modules where extended temperature cycling and mechanical robustness are required.
What is the clamping voltage of BZW04-256-E3/54 under full-rated surge?
Under its full-rated 10/1000 μs surge condition, the BZW04-256-E3/54 clamps to a maximum of 414 V at 414 A peak pulse current (IPPM). This clamping voltage is measured per standard test conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transients-critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
What package type and lead finish does BZW04-256-E3/54 use?
BZW04-256-E3/54 uses the DO-41 (DO-204AL) axial-leaded package with matte tin-plated leads that comply with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102 solderability standards. The E3 suffix confirms RoHS compliance and JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance, making the BZW04-256-E3/54 suitable for lead-free reflow and wave soldering processes in high-reliability manufacturing.
BZW04-256-E3/54 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 256V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 285V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 414V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 1A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- 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:
- DO-204AL (DO-41)
BZW04-256-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BZW04-256-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BZW04-256-E3/54 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 BZW04-256-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of BZW04-256-E3/54 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BZW04-256-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BZW04-256-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BZW04-256-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BZW04-256-E3/54?
BZW04-256-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BZW04-256-E3/54 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 BZW04-256-E3/54?
For technical support, including BZW04-256-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BZW04-256-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BZW04-256-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BZW04-256-E3/54 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 BZW04-256-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BZW04-256-E3/54?
All BZW04-256-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BZW04-256-E3/54, 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 BZW04-256-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BZW04-256-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BZW04-256-E3/54 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 …

