Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KA18HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P4KA18HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KA18HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 14.5VWM 26.5VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,055
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Product details
Overview
P4KA18HE3/73 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), 16.2–19.8 V breakdown voltage (VBR), and 15.1 A peak pulse current (IPPM). It protects MOSFETs and sensor signal lines in automotive powertrain control units against inductive switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the P4KA18HE3/73 datasheet, P4KA18HE3/73 pinout, P4KA18HE3/73 application, or P4KA18HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC Q101 qualification, 185 °C maximum junction temperature, 1.0 VWM stand-off voltage, 1.0 µA max reverse leakage at VWM, and low 26.5 V clamping voltage at IPPM.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses Vishay's patented PAR® construction to achieve stable clamping under high-temperature operation (TJ up to 185 °C) and repetitive surge stress. Its unidirectional polarity and DO-204AL package support through-hole mounting in engine control modules where thermal cycling and vibration resistance are critical.
The device complies with ANSI/IEEE C62.35 for transient suppression and meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance. Its 10/1000 µs waveform rating and 0.01 % duty cycle capability enable reliable protection of 12 V automotive electronics against load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 µs) | 400 W - sustains single high-energy transients without failure in automotive load-dump scenarios |
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 16.2–19.8 V at 1 mA - defines precise clamping onset threshold for 12 V system overvoltage protection |
| Clamping Voltage VC at IPPM | 26.5 V - limits downstream IC voltage stress during 15.1 A surge, ensuring safe margin below 30 V logic rails |
| Stand-off Voltage VWM | 14.5 V - blocks normal 12 V system operation while remaining fully inactive until transients exceed threshold |
| Max Reverse Leakage at VWM | 1.0 µA at 25 °C - negligible standby current draw, critical for always-on automotive modules |
| Junction Temperature Range | −65 to +185 °C - supports under-hood placement in ECU and transmission control units |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - validated for automotive reliability including temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AL (DO-41), axial leaded, epoxy-molded case with matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102. Cathode denoted by color band.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point in forward bias | Connected to ground or low-side return path; enables unidirectional clamping to GND |
| Cathode | Current exit point in forward bias; marked with band | Connected to protected line (e.g., sensor supply or gate drive); absorbs positive transients |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Patented PAR® construction | Enables stable VBR and low dynamic impedance across −65 to +185 °C operating range |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) without degradation in automotive 12 V systems |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients (<1 ns response), improving IC survivability |
| AEC-Q101 qualified, HE3 suffix | Meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and automotive long-term reliability requirements |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Prevents flame propagation in enclosed engine bay environments per automotive safety standards |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input Protection | Transmission Control Module (TCM) Sensor Line Clamping |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 12 V supply rail of microcontroller-based ECUs from alternator load dump transients up to 40 V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamps positive surges to ground, limiting voltage seen by LDOs and MCU VCC pins. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 5 V/3.3 V regulators during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a events. |
Use Scenario: Shields analog input lines of Hall-effect position sensors in TCMs from inductive kickback during solenoid switching. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS diverts >10 A surge currents away from ADC front-end and op-amp inputs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity and prevents erroneous gear-shift decisions caused by transient-induced ADC saturation. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) LIN Bus Protection | Electric Power Steering (EPS) Motor Driver Gate Clamp |
Use Scenario: Installed on LIN bus physical layer to suppress ESD and coupled noise from adjacent high-current wiring harnesses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance unidirectional clamp absorbs ±8 kV HBM ESD without distorting 19.2 kbps LIN signaling. Use Value: Ensures uninterrupted communication between door modules and BCM during vehicle assembly and service ESD events. |
Use Scenario: Placed across high-side N-channel MOSFET gate-source terminals in EPS motor drivers to suppress Miller-induced voltage spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamps gate overvoltage during fast dV/dt switching, preventing unintended turn-on or oxide breakdown. Use Value: Extends MOSFET lifetime and avoids torque ripple caused by parasitic gate conduction during PWM commutation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18A-E3/5AT | Same VBR range (16.2–19.8 V), but SMA package (SMD); lower IPPM (13.9 A), higher VC (29.2 V) | Designed for PCB space-constrained SMT layouts; not suitable for through-hole or high-vibration mounting | Select when automated assembly and board density outweigh mechanical robustness requirements |
| 1.5KE18A | Higher PPPM (1500 W), larger DO-201AD package; same VBR but higher VC (29.2 V), no AEC-Q101 qualification | Used in industrial power supplies; lacks automotive reliability validation and high-temp stability | Choose only for non-automotive applications requiring higher single-pulse energy handling |
Compared with SMAJ18A-E3/5AT and 1.5KE18A, the P4KA18HE3/73 delivers superior thermal stability at 185 °C, AEC-Q101 compliance for automotive deployment, and optimized clamping (26.5 V) for 12 V system compatibility - making it the preferred choice for under-hood electronic control units.
Availability
P4KA18HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, transmission control modules, body control modules, and electric power steering systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and automotive lifecycle demands.
Supply support for P4KA18HE3/73 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 automotive, industrial, and computing markets.
The P4KA18HE3/73 belongs to Vishay's automotive TVS diode family engineered specifically for AEC-Q101 compliance, high-temperature operation, and robust transient immunity in engine management and chassis control systems.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance of the P4KA18HE3/73?
The P4KA18HE3/73 has a specified breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 16.2 V to 19.8 V at 1 mA test current, representing ±10 % tolerance around the nominal 18 V rating. This tolerance ensures consistent clamping behavior across production lots while accommodating thermal drift up to 185 °C junction temperature.
Is the P4KA18HE3/73 suitable for bidirectional transient suppression?
No, the P4KA18HE3/73 is unidirectional only, as confirmed in the Vishay datasheet Document Number 88364. It clamps positive transients to ground and conducts only in reverse bias. For bidirectional protection, a separate device such as the P4SMA18CA or dual-diode configuration is required - the P4KA18HE3/73 must not be used in AC-coupled or symmetrical surge environments.
Does the P4KA18HE3/73 meet RoHS and REACH requirements?
Yes, the P4KA18HE3/73 is RoHS 2002/95/EC compliant and WEEE 2002/96/EC compliant, as stated in the official Vishay documentation. The HE3 suffix explicitly denotes RoHS-compliant, high-reliability automotive grade construction with matte tin-plated leads and UL 94 V-0 molding compound.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P4KA18HE3/73 at rated peak pulse current?
The P4KA18HE3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 26.5 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 15.1 A under 10/1000 µs waveform conditions. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and guarantees that protected circuitry remains below critical 30 V thresholds during standardized surge events.
Can the P4KA18HE3/73 replace the P4KA18AHE3/73 in existing designs?
No - the P4KA18HE3/73 and P4KA18AHE3/73 are distinct variants: the former has VBR = 16.2–19.8 V, while the latter is tighter at 17.1–18.9 V. Their clamping voltages also differ (26.5 V vs. 25.5 V). Substitution requires verification of system-level overvoltage margins and may affect surge immunity performance in AEC-Q101-certified designs.
P4KA18HE3/73 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):
- 14.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 15.1A
- 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)
P4KA18HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KA18HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KA18HE3/73 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 P4KA18HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KA18HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KA18HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KA18HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KA18HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KA18HE3/73?
P4KA18HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KA18HE3/73 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 P4KA18HE3/73?
For technical support, including P4KA18HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KA18HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KA18HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KA18HE3/73 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 P4KA18HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KA18HE3/73?
All P4KA18HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KA18HE3/73, 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 P4KA18HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KA18HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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