Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KA6.8AHE3/73
- Part No.:
- P4KA6.8AHE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KA6.8AHE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 5.8VWM 10.5VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,900
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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), 6.45–7.14 V breakdown voltage at 10 mA, and 10.5 V clamping voltage at 38.1 A peak surge current. It operates from −65 °C to +185 °C and is AEC-Q101 qualified for engine control units and powertrain electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 datasheet, P4KA6.8AHE3/73 pinout, P4KA6.8AHE3/73 application, or P4KA6.8AHE3/73 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, thermal derating behavior, clamping performance under automotive transients, and RoHS-compliant packaging details aligned with JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses Vishay's patented PAR® construction to achieve low incremental surge resistance and fast response time (<1 ns), enabling effective suppression of ISO 7637-2 Load Dump and ISO 16750-2 jump-start transients. Its unidirectional polarity and 185 °C max junction temperature support under-hood deployment without thermal derating penalties up to 150 °C ambient.
The device complies with ANSI/IEEE C62.35 standards for surge protection and exhibits a +0.057 %/°C temperature coefficient of VBR, ensuring stable clamping across wide temperature excursions. Its 1.5 W steady-state power dissipation on infinite heatsink supports continuous biasing in always-on automotive sensor interfaces.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Peak Pulse Power (10/1000 µs) | 400 W - withstands automotive load dump surges per ISO 7637-2 without failure |
| Breakdown Voltage VBR | 6.45–7.14 V @ 10 mA - defines precise conduction onset for 5 V–12 V rail protection |
| Clamping Voltage VC | 10.5 V @ 38.1 A - limits downstream IC stress during 400 W transient events |
| Stand-off Voltage VWM | 5.80 V - ensures no leakage conduction during normal 5 V system operation |
| Max Junction Temperature | +185 °C - enables direct mounting near high-temperature ECUs without external heatsinking |
| Surge Current IFSM | 40 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - handles repetitive ignition coil switching transients |
| Temperature Coefficient | +0.057 %/°C - guarantees <±5 % VBR shift over −40 °C to +125 °C operating range |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AL (DO-41), axial leaded, epoxy-molded case meeting UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. Matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102 solderability; cathode denoted by color band.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point during forward conduction | Connected to ground or lower-potential node in unidirectional TVS configuration |
| Cathode | Current exit point during reverse-biased clamping | Connected to protected line (e.g., CAN_H, LIN, sensor supply); color band identifies this terminal |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Patented PAR® construction | Reduces incremental surge resistance to improve clamping consistency across repeated transients |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive powertrain and chassis applications with zero defects in HTOL and TC testing |
| JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance | Prevents tin whisker growth under thermal cycling, eliminating latent short-circuit risk in 15+ year deployments |
| 10/1000 µs waveform capability | Matches real-world automotive surge profiles including alternator load dump and inductive switch-off |
| RoHS-compliant & WEEE-aligned | Enables global vehicle program compliance without material declaration exceptions |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input | CAN Bus Line Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 12 V supply rail of gasoline/diesel engine control modules against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) and Pulse 1 (inductive kick). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamps transients before they reach MCU power pins and LDO regulators. Use Value: Prevents brownout resets and gate oxide damage in 32-bit automotive MCUs operating at 185 °C junction temperature. |
Use Scenario: Shields high-speed CAN_H/CAN_L differential pair from ESD and coupled transients in body control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance (≈100 pF) unidirectional clamp placed at connector interface. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity up to 1 Mbps while limiting bus voltage to ≤12 V during 400 W surges. |
| Automotive Sensor Signal Lines | LIN Bus Transceiver Interface |
Use Scenario: Guards analog outputs (e.g., oxygen sensor, throttle position) against battery reversal and jump-start spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff voltage (5.80 V) blocks conduction during normal 5 V sensor operation; clamps only during fault. Use Value: Eliminates false readings and ADC saturation caused by sub-100 ns transients on millivolt-level signals. |
Use Scenario: Protects LIN transceiver I/O pins from battery feed coupling and electrostatic discharge in door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional clamp referenced to ground, placed within 2 cm of transceiver package. Use Value: Ensures LIN physical layer remains functional after 8 kV contact ESD per ISO 10605 without latch-up. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ6.8A-E3/5AT | Lower peak pulse power (400 W same), but higher clamping voltage (11.5 V @ 34.7 A); SMA package (surface-mount) | Not suitable for through-hole legacy automotive PCBs; requires reflow-compatible layout | Select when board space is constrained and automated assembly is required |
| 1.5KE6.8A | Same DO-41 package and VBR range, but lower temperature rating (175 °C max) and no AEC-Q101 qualification | Restricted to non-safety-critical consumer/industrial use; not approved for automotive production | Select only for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where AEC-Q101 is not mandated |
Compared with SMAJ6.8A-E3/5AT and 1.5KE6.8A, P4KA6.8AHE3/73 uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, 185 °C junction rating, and DO-41 through-hole compatibility-making it the only drop-in solution for legacy automotive ECU upgrades requiring zero PCB changes.
Availability
P4KA6.8AHE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for engine control units, CAN/LIN bus interfaces, automotive sensor signal conditioning, and powertrain actuator drivers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long-lifecycle programs.
Supply support for P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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, MOSFETs, and optoelectronics for automotive, industrial, and computing markets.
The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 belongs to Vishay's automotive TVS diode family engineered specifically for AEC-Q101 compliance, under-hood thermal resilience, and immunity to ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2 transients in powertrain and chassis systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 under full-rated surge conditions?
The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 clamps to a maximum of 10.5 V at its rated peak pulse current of 38.1 A (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and confirmed in Vishay's Document Number 88364, ensuring predictable overvoltage limiting for 5 V–12 V automotive circuits. The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 qualified for automotive use per AEC-Q101?
Yes, the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, as stated in the "Notes" section of Vishay's Document Number 88364 (Revision: 21-Oct-08). Its qualification covers high-temperature operating life (HTOL), temperature cycling, and unbiased highly accelerated stress testing-validating suitability for engine bay and transmission control module applications. The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 carries the HE3 suffix indicating high-reliability automotive grade.
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) of the P4KA6.8AHE3/73, and why does it matter?
The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 has a standoff voltage VWM of 5.80 V, meaning it remains non-conductive below this voltage during normal operation. This ensures no leakage current or power loss on 5 V sensor rails or LIN bus lines, preserving signal fidelity and minimizing standby current. The P4KA6.8AHE3/73's 5.80 V VWM provides 0.2 V margin above standard 5.5 V logic thresholds while enabling reliable clamping onset just above system nominal voltage.
Does the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 have RoHS and whisker resistance compliance?
Yes, the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 meets RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC and WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC. Its matte tin-plated leads pass JESD201 Class 2 whisker testing, preventing conductive filament growth under thermal cycling-a critical reliability requirement for automotive modules deployed over 15 years. The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 HE3 suffix explicitly denotes this qualification.
How does the temperature coefficient affect the P4KA6.8AHE3/73's breakdown voltage stability?
The P4KA6.8AHE3/73 has a VBR temperature coefficient of +0.057 %/°C, meaning its breakdown voltage increases linearly with junction temperature. Over a −40 °C to +125 °C range, this results in ≈9 % total shift-well within design margins for automotive 12 V systems. This predictable drift allows robust circuit margining without derating, and the P4KA6.8AHE3/73 maintains specified clamping performance up to its 185 °C maximum junction temperature.
P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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):
- 5.8V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 6.45V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 10.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 38.1A
- 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)
P4KA6.8AHE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KA6.8AHE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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 P4KA6.8AHE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KA6.8AHE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KA6.8AHE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KA6.8AHE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KA6.8AHE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KA6.8AHE3/73?
P4KA6.8AHE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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 P4KA6.8AHE3/73?
For technical support, including P4KA6.8AHE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KA6.8AHE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KA6.8AHE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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 P4KA6.8AHE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KA6.8AHE3/73?
All P4KA6.8AHE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KA6.8AHE3/73, 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 P4KA6.8AHE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KA6.8AHE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4KA6.8AHE3/73 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 …

