Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KA20HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P4KA20HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KA20HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16.2VWM 29.1VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,628
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Product details
Overview
P4KA20HE3/73 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), 18.0–22.0 V breakdown voltage (VBR), and 13.7 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 P4KA20HE3/73 datasheet, P4KA20HE3/73 pinout, P4KA20HE3/73 application, or P4KA20HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, 185 °C maximum junction temperature, 1.5 W steady-state power dissipation, and low 29.1 V clamping voltage at rated surge current - critical for robust ESD and load-dump immunity in harsh-temperature ECUs.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses patented PAR® construction to achieve low incremental surge resistance and fast response time (<1 ns), enabling effective suppression of fast-rising transients from relay coil de-energization or alternator load dump. Its unidirectional polarity and 1.0 V stand-off voltage (VWM) support DC-biased protection paths in automotive 12 V systems.
The device operates across –65 °C to +185 °C junction temperature range and maintains stable VBR with 0.090 %/°C temperature coefficient. It meets RoHS 2002/95/EC and WEEE 2002/96/EC, and passes JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing due to matte tin-plated leads.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 µs) | 400 W - sustains automotive ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 & 2a surges without failure |
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 18.0–22.0 V at 1 mA - ensures reliable triggering above nominal 12 V rail while avoiding false trips |
| Clamping Voltage VC | 29.1 V at 13.7 A - limits downstream IC voltage stress during full-rated transient events |
| Steady-State Power Dissipation | 1.5 W - supports continuous operation under elevated ambient temperatures up to 75 °C on PCB |
| Junction Temperature Range | –65 °C to +185 °C - qualified for under-hood automotive environments per AEC-Q101 |
| Leakage Current at VWM | 1.0 µA max at 16.2 V - minimizes standby power loss in always-on vehicle modules |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AL (DO-41), axial leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 rating. Cathode indicated by color band.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current return path | Connected to ground or low-impedance reference plane; carries full surge current during clamping |
| Cathode | Protected line connection | Connected to sensitive node (e.g., MCU I/O or MOSFET gate); voltage clamped relative to anode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Patented PAR® construction | Enables uniform current distribution across junction area, reducing localized thermal runaway during repetitive surges |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive use including temperature cycling, HTRB, and mechanical shock per stress test requirements |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.45) | Minimizes overvoltage margin needed in protected circuit design, easing compliance with ISO 16750-2 |
| Matte tin-plated leads | Ensures solderability per J-STD-002 and long-term intermetallic stability under thermal cycling |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Protection | Body Control Module (BCM) Signal Lines |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Suppresses load-dump transients (>35 V, 100 ms) induced by alternator field-circuit interruption in gasoline/diesel engine management systems. IC Role / Device Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between 12 V supply rail and ground, clamping surge energy before it reaches microcontroller power pins. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to ASIL-B compliant MCUs operating at 185 °C junction temperature. |
Use Scenario: Protects LIN bus transceivers and door module sensors from ESD (IEC 61000-4-2 ±8 kV) and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role: TVS connected across LIN data line and ground, leveraging fast response (<1 ns) to limit voltage excursion below transceiver absolute max rating. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity and avoids communication dropouts during vehicle assembly or service ESD events. |
| Transmission Control Module (TCM) | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Camera Power Input |
Use Scenario: Shields solenoid driver ICs from inductive kickback when PWM-controlled shift solenoids switch off. IC Role / Device Role: Mounted directly at solenoid connector interface, absorbing 40 A IFSM half-sine surges without degradation. Use Value: Extends solenoid driver lifetime and eliminates intermittent faults caused by voltage overshoot-induced gate oxide stress. |
Use Scenario: Guards 5 V camera module input against battery reverse-connection transients and jump-start spikes in rear-view camera systems. IC Role / Device Role: Placed upstream of LDO regulator, using 16.2 V VWM to block reverse polarity while clamping forward surges to 29.1 V. Use Value: Enables single-device polarity + surge protection, reducing BOM count versus discrete diode + TVS solutions. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20A-E3/5AT | Lower peak pulse power (400 W same), but higher clamping voltage (32.4 V at 12.3 A); SMA package (SMD) vs. DO-41 (through-hole) | Preferred for space-constrained PCBs where reflow assembly is used; less suitable for high-vibration under-hood mounting | Select when automated SMT placement and board density outweigh mechanical robustness requirements |
| 1.5KE20A | Same DO-204AL package and VBR range, but lower temperature rating (175 °C max TJ) and no AEC-Q101 qualification | Acceptable for industrial or consumer applications lacking automotive qualification mandates | Choose only if AEC-Q101 compliance and 185 °C operation are not required |
Compared with SMAJ20A-E3/5AT and 1.5KE20A, the P4KA20HE3/73 delivers superior high-temperature reliability and automotive-specific validation - making it the sole option for safety-critical ECU designs requiring sustained operation at 150 °C ambient with guaranteed surge immunity.
Availability
P4KA20HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, body control modules, transmission control systems, and ADAS camera power inputs requiring stable component supply under extended temperature and high-reliability conditions.
Supply support for P4KA20HE3/73 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 P4KA20HE3/73 belongs to Vishay's automotive TVS diode family engineered specifically for AEC-Q101 compliance and under-hood transient immunity - targeting powertrain, chassis, and ADAS subsystems where failure is not an option.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4KA20HE3/73 at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4KA20HE3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 29.1 V at 13.7 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under 10/1000 µs waveform conditions. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and ensures protected circuits remain within safe operating limits during standardized automotive surge events. The P4KA20HE3/73 achieves this performance using PAR® junction architecture to minimize dynamic resistance during conduction.
Is the P4KA20HE3/73 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4KA20HE3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified and designated as high-reliability/automotive grade (HE3 suffix). It undergoes rigorous stress testing including temperature cycling, highly accelerated life testing (HALT), and mechanical shock per automotive standards. Its 185 °C maximum junction temperature and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance make the P4KA20HE3/73 suitable for under-hood deployment in ECUs and TCMs.
What does the HE3 suffix indicate on the P4KA20HE3/73 part number?
On the P4KA20HE3/73, the HE3 suffix denotes RoHS-compliant, high-reliability/automotive-grade construction. It confirms compliance with RoHS 2002/95/EC and WEEE 2002/96/EC directives, matte tin-plated leads meeting J-STD-002 solderability, and qualification to JESD201 Class 2 for tin whisker mitigation. The HE3 marking is integral to the P4KA20HE3/73's AEC-Q101 certification and distinguishes it from commercial-grade variants.
Can the P4KA20HE3/73 be used in bidirectional configurations?
No, the P4KA20HE3/73 is available in uni-directional polarity only, as explicitly stated in the Vishay datasheet. Its internal structure is optimized for clamping positive transients relative to ground. For bidirectional protection (e.g., AC lines or differential buses), a separate pair of P4KA20HE3/73 devices or a dedicated bi-directional TVS such as SMBJ20CA would be required - the P4KA20HE3/73 itself does not support reverse-polarity surge suppression.
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) and leakage current specification for the P4KA20HE3/73?
The P4KA20HE3/73 has a maximum standoff voltage (VWM) of 16.2 V and a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1.0 µA at VWM and 25 °C. At elevated temperature (150 °C), leakage remains ≤1.0 µA, ensuring minimal power loss in always-on automotive modules. This low-leakage characteristic helps maintain battery drain budgets in sleep-mode vehicle networks where the P4KA20HE3/73 is commonly deployed.
P4KA20HE3/73 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):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 18V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 13.7A
- 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)
P4KA20HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KA20HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KA20HE3/73 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 P4KA20HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KA20HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KA20HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KA20HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KA20HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KA20HE3/73?
P4KA20HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KA20HE3/73 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 P4KA20HE3/73?
For technical support, including P4KA20HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KA20HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KA20HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KA20HE3/73 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 P4KA20HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KA20HE3/73?
All P4KA20HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KA20HE3/73, 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 P4KA20HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KA20HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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