Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Home > Products > Circuit Protection > Transient Voltage Suppressors (TVS) > TVS Diodes

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KA16HE3/73

Name: P4KA16HE3/73
Brand: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
SKU: P4KA16HE3/73
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Compare

Part No.:: P4KA16HE3/73

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Category:: TVS Diodes

Package:: DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial

Datasheet:: P4KA16HE3/73.pdf

Description:: TVS DIODE 12.9VWM 23.5VC DO204AL

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

Payment:

Shipping:

Inventory:9,676

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Product details

Overview

P4KA16HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional automotive-grade transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AL (DO-41) package, rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs), 14.4–17.6 V breakdown voltage (V_BR), and 185 °C maximum junction temperature. It protects sensitive ICs and MOSFETs against inductive switching transients in automotive powertrain control units.

For engineers reviewing the P4KA16HE3/73 datasheet, P4KA16HE3/73 pinout, P4KA16HE3/73 application, or P4KA16HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, 23.5 V clamping voltage at 17.0 A peak pulse current, ±0.086 %/°C V_BR temperature coefficient, and RoHS-compliant matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002.

Technical Context

This TVS diode uses Vishay's patented PAR® construction to deliver low incremental surge resistance and excellent clamping performance under repetitive 10/1000 µs transients at 0.01 % duty cycle. Its unidirectional polarity and 1.0 V stand-off voltage (V_WM) enable precise overvoltage protection on DC supply rails.

Designed for high-reliability automotive environments, it operates across –65 °C to +185 °C junction temperature and maintains stable V_BR with minimal drift (0.086 %/°C), supporting robust ESD and load-dump immunity in engine control modules and body electronics.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_BR (min/max)	14.4 V / 17.6 V - defines minimum clamping threshold and maximum guaranteed conduction onset under test current of 1 mA
V_C @ I_PPM	23.5 V - maximum clamped voltage during 400 W transient, limiting stress on downstream 24 V-rated components
I_PPM	17.0 A - peak surge current capability with 10/1000 µs waveform, sufficient for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 & 2a
T_J max.	+185 °C - enables operation in under-hood ECUs without thermal derating penalties up to 150 °C ambient
V_WM	12.9 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage, ensuring no leakage conduction during normal 12 V system operation
Temp. Coeff. V_BR	±0.086 %/°C - quantifies V_BR drift over temperature, critical for stable protection margin in wide-temperature automotive use

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-204AL (DO-41), axial leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0. Cathode indicated by color band on body. Matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Anode	Forward conduction terminal	Connected to ground or lower-potential rail; conducts during reverse-transient clamping when cathode is at higher potential
Cathode	Reverse-biased input terminal	Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V supply); initiates avalanche breakdown when voltage exceeds V_BR

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Patented PAR® construction	Enables consistent 400 W pulse handling and low dynamic impedance (< 1.4 Ω) for tight clamping control
AEC-Q101 qualified	Validated for automotive under-hood applications including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock
10/1000 µs waveform rating	Matches ISO 7637-2 load-dump and inductive-switching transient standards used in 12 V vehicle systems
RoHS-compliant HE3 suffix	Meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and EU RoHS 2002/95/EC, enabling use in modern automotive supply chains

Applications

Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input Protection	Body Control Module (BCM) Sensor Line Protection
Use Scenario: Suppresses load-dump transients (up to 35 V, 100 ms) induced by alternator disconnection in 12 V power distribution networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS diode placed between battery rail and LDO input to clamp overvoltage before it reaches microcontroller power pins. Use Value: Limits peak voltage to ≤23.5 V, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 24 V-tolerant power management ICs in ECU mainboard designs.	Use Scenario: Protects analog sensor signal lines (e.g., temperature, pressure) from ESD and switching noise generated by nearby solenoids or relays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS (C_J < 100 pF at V_WM) shunted across differential sensor inputs to divert fast transients without distorting mV-level signals. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity with <1 µA leakage at 12.9 V, avoiding offset errors in precision ADC front-ends within BCM subassemblies.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) CAN Bus Protection	Electric Power Steering (EPS) Motor Driver Protection
Use Scenario: Guards isolated CAN transceiver power and I/O lines against coupled transients from high-current motor drivers sharing chassis ground. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary TVS stage after common-mode choke, clamping differential and common-mode surges exceeding V_BR on V_CC and CANH/CANL rails. Use Value: Ensures CAN communication remains functional after 400 W pulses by holding V_C below transceiver absolute maximum ratings (e.g., 36 V).	Use Scenario: Absorbs inductive kickback from brushed DC motors during PWM commutation in EPS actuator assemblies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted across H-bridge high-side FET drain-source terminals to clamp flyback voltage spikes during turn-off transitions. Use Value: Prevents avalanche failure of 40 V-rated MOSFETs by limiting transient overshoot to 23.5 V with sub-nanosecond response time.

Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input Protection

Body Control Module (BCM) Sensor Line Protection

Use Scenario: Suppresses load-dump transients (up to 35 V, 100 ms) induced by alternator disconnection in 12 V power distribution networks.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS diode placed between battery rail and LDO input to clamp overvoltage before it reaches microcontroller power pins.

Use Value: Limits peak voltage to ≤23.5 V, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 24 V-tolerant power management ICs in ECU mainboard designs.

Use Scenario: Protects analog sensor signal lines (e.g., temperature, pressure) from ESD and switching noise generated by nearby solenoids or relays.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS (C_J < 100 pF at V_WM) shunted across differential sensor inputs to divert fast transients without distorting mV-level signals.

Use Value: Maintains signal integrity with <1 µA leakage at 12.9 V, avoiding offset errors in precision ADC front-ends within BCM subassemblies.

Transmission Control Module (TCM) CAN Bus Protection

Electric Power Steering (EPS) Motor Driver Protection

Use Scenario: Guards isolated CAN transceiver power and I/O lines against coupled transients from high-current motor drivers sharing chassis ground.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary TVS stage after common-mode choke, clamping differential and common-mode surges exceeding V_BR on V_CC and CANH/CANL rails.

Use Value: Ensures CAN communication remains functional after 400 W pulses by holding V_C below transceiver absolute maximum ratings (e.g., 36 V).

Use Scenario: Absorbs inductive kickback from brushed DC motors during PWM commutation in EPS actuator assemblies.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted across H-bridge high-side FET drain-source terminals to clamp flyback voltage spikes during turn-off transitions.

Use Value: Prevents avalanche failure of 40 V-rated MOSFETs by limiting transient overshoot to 23.5 V with sub-nanosecond response time.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
SMAJ16A-E3/5AT	Lower PPPM (400 W same), but higher V_C = 26.0 V at 15.3 A; SMA package vs. DO-41; not AEC-Q101 qualified	Not suitable for under-hood automotive use; limited to industrial/commercial PCBs with space-constrained layouts	Select only if AEC-Q101 compliance is unnecessary and board area is constrained
1.5KE16A	Same V_BR range (14.4–17.6 V), but higher PPPM (1500 W), larger DO-201AD package, and no AEC-Q101 qualification	Used in non-automotive power supplies; lacks high-temp reliability validation for 185 °C T_J operation	Choose only for cost-sensitive industrial designs where 1500 W surge margin outweighs automotive qualification needs

Compared with SMAJ16A-E3/5AT and 1.5KE16A, the P4KA16HE3/73 uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, 185 °C T_J rating, and DO-41 form factor-making it the only option validated for long-term reliability in engine compartment electronics without layout or thermal redesign.

Availability

P4KA16HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, body control modules, and electric power steering systems requiring stable component supply under extended temperature and high-reliability conditions.

Supply support for P4KA16HE3/73 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 high-reliability diodes, rectifiers, and protection devices for demanding industrial and automotive applications.

The P4KA16HE3/73 belongs to Vishay's automotive TVS family designed specifically for AEC-Q101-compliant transient suppression in 12 V vehicle electrical systems-including load-dump, ISO 7637-2, and ESD immunity requirements.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of the P4KA16HE3/73 under peak surge conditions?

The P4KA16HE3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 23.5 V at its rated peak pulse current (I_PPM) of 17.0 A with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures protected circuits remain within safe operating limits during standardized automotive transients such as ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 and 2a. The P4KA16HE3/73 achieves this with low incremental surge resistance inherent to its PAR® construction.

Is the P4KA16HE3/73 qualified for automotive use?

Yes, the P4KA16HE3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified and designated as high-reliability/automotive grade per its HE3 suffix. It undergoes rigorous testing for temperature cycling, humidity bias, mechanical shock, and high-temperature operating life-validating suitability for under-hood applications with junction temperatures up to +185 °C. The P4KA16HE3/73 meets RoHS 2002/95/EC and WEEE 2002/96/EC directives, supporting compliance in global automotive supply chains.

What is the standoff voltage rating for the P4KA16HE3/73?

The P4KA16HE3/73 has a maximum reverse standoff voltage (V_WM) of 12.9 V at 25 °C, meaning it remains non-conductive under normal 12 V system operation with negligible leakage (<1 µA). This allows reliable integration into 12 V automotive power rails without false triggering. The P4KA16HE3/73 maintains this V_WM stability across its full operating temperature range due to its specified 0.086 %/°C V_BR temperature coefficient.

Does the P4KA16HE3/73 have unidirectional or bidirectional polarity?

The P4KA16HE3/73 is available in unidirectional polarity only, as confirmed in the Vishay datasheet Document Number 88364. Its cathode is marked by a color band on the DO-204AL (DO-41) package body. This configuration provides optimized clamping for DC-supply-line protection where reverse-voltage blocking is required, unlike bidirectional variants used for AC or differential-signal protection. The P4KA16HE3/73 does not support symmetrical transient suppression.

What package type and lead finish does the P4KA16HE3/73 use?

The P4KA16HE3/73 uses the DO-204AL (DO-41) axial-leaded package with molded epoxy encapsulation rated UL 94 V-0. Its leads feature matte tin plating, qualified per J-STD-002 for solderability and JESD22-B102 for intermetallic growth resistance. The HE3 suffix confirms compliance with JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing-ensuring long-term reliability in vibration-prone automotive harnesses and connectors. The P4KA16HE3/73 is not offered in surface-mount packages.

P4KA16HE3/73 Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Package/Case:: DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial

Series:: PAR®

Packaging:: Tape & Box (TB)

Product Status:: Obsolete

Type:: Zener

Unidirectional Channels:: 1

Bidirectional Channels:: -

Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):: 12.9V

Voltage - Breakdown (Min):: 14.4V

Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:: 23.5V

Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):: 17A

Power - Peak Pulse:: 400W

Power Line Protection:: No

Applications:: -

Capacitance @ Frequency:: -

Operating Temperature:: -65°C ~ 185°C (TJ)

Grade:: Automotive

Qualification:: AEC-Q101

Mounting Type:: Through Hole

Supplier Device Package:: DO-204AL (DO-41)

P4KA16HE3/73 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for P4KA16HE3/73 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KA16HE3/73 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 P4KA16HE3/73 reliable?

The price and inventory of P4KA16HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KA16HE3/73 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KA16HE3/73?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KA16HE3/73 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for P4KA16HE3/73?

P4KA16HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your P4KA16HE3/73 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 P4KA16HE3/73?

For technical support, including P4KA16HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KA16HE3/73 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KA16HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All P4KA16HE3/73 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 P4KA16HE3/73 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KA16HE3/73?

All P4KA16HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KA16HE3/73, 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 P4KA16HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for P4KA16HE3/73:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

Tech Hub

2026-09-11 Comparator Circuit: Voltage Thresholds, Op-Amp Differences, LM393 and Practical Design

Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.

2026-09-10 Schmitt Trigger Explained: Hysteresis, Circuits, Inverters and Applications

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…

2026-09-09 Counterfeit Electronic Components: How to Detect, Authenticate, and Test Suspect Parts

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, …

2026-09-08 Obsolete Electronic Components: How to Source and Evaluate Replacements

A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.

2026-09-07 TTL vs CMOS Logic Levels: 74HC and 74HCT Compatibility Explained

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.

2026-09-04 Logic Level Shifter: How to Connect 3.3V and 5V Logic Safely

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.

2026-09-03 74HC595 vs TPIC6B595: Output Drive, Pinout, Current, and Load Selection

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…

2026-09-02 74HC595 Pinout, Timing, Output Current, and Applications

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…

2026-09-01 Latch vs Flip-Flop: Timing, Differences and Design Choices

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…

2026-08-30 D Latch Circuit: Truth Table, Timing, ICs and Applications

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 …