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

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KA6.8HE3/73

Name: P4KA6.8HE3/73
Brand: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
SKU: P4KA6.8HE3/73
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: P4KA6.8HE3/73

Manufacturer:: Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division

Category:: TVS Diodes

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

Datasheet:: P4KA6.8HE3/73.pdf

Description:: TVS DIODE 5.5VWM 10.8VC DO204AL

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Product details

Overview

P4KA6.8HE3/73 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), 6.12–7.48 V breakdown voltage at 10 mA, and 10.8 V maximum clamping voltage at 37 A peak pulse current. It protects sensitive ICs and MOSFETs against inductive switching transients in automotive powertrain control units.

For engineers reviewing the P4KA6.8HE3/73 datasheet, P4KA6.8HE3/73 pinout, P4KA6.8HE3/73 application, or P4KA6.8HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include AEC Q101 qualification, 185 °C max junction temperature, low 0.057 %/°C V_BR temperature coefficient, and RoHS-compliant matte tin-plated leads meeting J-STD-002 solderability.

Technical Context

This TVS diode employs Vishay's patented PAR® construction for stable clamping under high-temperature automotive conditions. Its unidirectional polarity enables precise reverse-biased overvoltage protection on DC power rails and signal lines with defined ground reference.

Designed per ANSI/IEEE C62.35, it delivers fast response time and low incremental surge resistance to limit transient energy before downstream components are stressed. The device operates across –65 °C to +185 °C and maintains clamping performance up to 150 °C junction temperature.

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 or inductive kick scenarios
Breakdown Voltage V_BR	6.12–7.48 V at 10 mA - defines precise voltage threshold where avalanche conduction begins
Maximum Clamping Voltage V_C	10.8 V at 37 A - limits protected circuit voltage during worst-case surge, ensuring safe operation of 5 V or 3.3 V logic
Stand-off Voltage V_WM	5.50 V - maximum continuous reverse voltage before leakage exceeds 300 µA, compatible with 5 V supply rails
Junction Temperature Range	–65 °C to +185 °C - supports under-hood deployment in engine control modules and transmission ECUs
AEC Q101 Qualification	Qualified - meets stress test requirements for automotive semiconductor reliability including HTGB, HTRB, and TCT

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-204AL (DO-41), axial leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. Cathode indicated by color band.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Anode	Forward current entry / transient return path	Connected to system ground or low-side reference; completes clamping loop during reverse surge
Cathode	Protected line connection / transient sink	Connected to line being protected (e.g., 5 V rail); conducts avalanche current when V_IN > V_BR

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Patented PAR® construction	Enables stable V_BR and low dynamic impedance across temperature and lifetime, critical for AEC Q101 compliance
185 °C maximum junction temperature	Supports placement near heat sources (e.g., power MOSFETs, ignition coils) without derating loss
0.057 %/°C V_BR temperature coefficient	Minimizes drift in clamping threshold from –40 °C cold crank to +150 °C under-hood operation
Matte tin-plated leads (J-STD-002 compliant)	Ensures reliable solder wetting and intermetallic formation in automated reflow and wave soldering processes
RoHS-compliant HE3 suffix	Meets JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, eliminating tin whisker risk in long-life automotive electronics

Applications

Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input Protection	Automotive Sensor Signal Line Protection
Use Scenario: Protects 5 V power rail in gasoline/diesel ECU from ISO 7637-2 pulse 1 (inductive switch-off) and pulse 3a/b (load dump simulation). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamps reverse transients on V_CC rail while remaining non-conductive during normal operation. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤10.8 V during 37 A surge, preventing latch-up or damage to MCU, CAN transceivers, and analog front-ends.	Use Scenario: Shields LIN bus or analog sensor outputs (e.g., MAP, O2 sensors) from ESD and cable discharge events per ISO 10605. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS shunts transient energy before it reaches low-voltage op-amps or ADC inputs. Use Value: 10.8 V clamping ensures signal integrity remains intact below 12 V absolute maximum ratings of typical automotive interface ICs.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Solenoid Driver Protection	Body Control Module (BCM) Relay Coil Suppression
Use Scenario: Placed across 12 V solenoid driver outputs to absorb flyback energy during PWM switching in automatic transmission valve bodies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as passive snubber, conducting only during inductive turn-off spikes exceeding 6.12 V. Use Value: 400 W peak power rating handles repetitive 10/1000 µs surges at 0.01 % duty cycle without thermal runaway.	Use Scenario: Mounted across relay coil terminals in BCM door lock or lighting circuits to suppress 100 V+ switching spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides low-impedance path for stored magnetic energy, reducing contact arcing and EMI. Use Value: Low incremental surge resistance minimizes voltage overshoot, extending relay contact life and lowering conducted emissions.

Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input Protection

Automotive Sensor Signal Line Protection

Use Scenario: Protects 5 V power rail in gasoline/diesel ECU from ISO 7637-2 pulse 1 (inductive switch-off) and pulse 3a/b (load dump simulation).

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamps reverse transients on V_CC rail while remaining non-conductive during normal operation.

Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤10.8 V during 37 A surge, preventing latch-up or damage to MCU, CAN transceivers, and analog front-ends.

Use Scenario: Shields LIN bus or analog sensor outputs (e.g., MAP, O2 sensors) from ESD and cable discharge events per ISO 10605.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS shunts transient energy before it reaches low-voltage op-amps or ADC inputs.

Use Value: 10.8 V clamping ensures signal integrity remains intact below 12 V absolute maximum ratings of typical automotive interface ICs.

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Solenoid Driver Protection

Body Control Module (BCM) Relay Coil Suppression

Use Scenario: Placed across 12 V solenoid driver outputs to absorb flyback energy during PWM switching in automatic transmission valve bodies.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as passive snubber, conducting only during inductive turn-off spikes exceeding 6.12 V.

Use Value: 400 W peak power rating handles repetitive 10/1000 µs surges at 0.01 % duty cycle without thermal runaway.

Use Scenario: Mounted across relay coil terminals in BCM door lock or lighting circuits to suppress 100 V+ switching spikes.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides low-impedance path for stored magnetic energy, reducing contact arcing and EMI.

Use Value: Low incremental surge resistance minimizes voltage overshoot, extending relay contact life and lowering conducted emissions.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
SMBJ6.8A-E3/52	Surface-mount SMB package (vs. axial DO-41); 600 W peak power; slightly higher V_C = 11.2 V at 35.1 A	Requires PCB layout change; better suited for high-density layouts but lacks axial lead mechanical robustness	Select for space-constrained SMT designs where board-level vibration resistance is less critical than footprint size
1N6105A	Legacy DO-41 part; 400 W rating; V_BR = 6.4–7.0 V; not AEC Q101 qualified; no HE3 whisker mitigation	Not suitable for new automotive designs requiring PPAP or long-term reliability validation	Acceptable only for non-automotive industrial or consumer applications with relaxed qualification requirements

Compared with SMBJ6.8A-E3/52 and 1N6105A, P4KA6.8HE3/73 uniquely combines AEC Q101 qualification, JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and DO-41 mechanical ruggedness-making it the only choice for production automotive powertrain and chassis modules requiring zero field returns.

Availability

P4KA6.8HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU power input protection, sensor signal line hardening, transmission solenoid driver circuits, and BCM relay coil suppression requiring stable component supply across extended vehicle lifecycles.

Supply support for P4KA6.8HE3/73 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 P4KA6.8HE3/73 belongs to Vishay's automotive TVS diode family engineered specifically for AEC Q101 compliance and under-hood thermal resilience-targeting powertrain, chassis, and body electronics where transient immunity directly impacts functional safety.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of the P4KA6.8HE3/73 at its rated peak pulse current?

The P4KA6.8HE3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of 10.8 V at 37 A peak pulse current (I_PPM) under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and ensures protected downstream components remain within their absolute maximum voltage ratings during surge events. The P4KA6.8HE3/73 achieves this with low dynamic impedance enabled by its PAR® construction.

Is the P4KA6.8HE3/73 qualified for automotive use per AEC Q101?

Yes, the P4KA6.8HE3/73 is explicitly AEC Q101 qualified, as confirmed in Vishay document 88364 (Revision 21-Oct-08), Section "MECHANICAL DATA" and footnote (1). This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), high-temperature gate bias (HTGB), temperature cycling (TCT), and mechanical shock-making the P4KA6.8HE3/73 suitable for safety-critical automotive applications such as engine control and transmission systems.

What does the HE3 suffix indicate on the P4KA6.8HE3/73?

The HE3 suffix on the P4KA6.8HE3/73 denotes RoHS-compliant, high-reliability automotive grade construction: matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD22-B102, plus JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance certification. This ensures long-term solder joint integrity in automotive environments subject to thermal cycling and vibration-critical for the P4KA6.8HE3/73's deployment in under-hood modules with 15+ year service life expectations.

Can the P4KA6.8HE3/73 be used in bidirectional configurations?

No, the P4KA6.8HE3/73 is specified for unidirectional polarity only, as stated in the Vishay datasheet features section. Its internal structure is optimized for reverse-biased clamping on positive DC rails. For bidirectional protection (e.g., AC lines or data buses), a dedicated bidirectional TVS like SMAJ6.8CA must be selected-using two P4KA6.8HE3/73 devices in series opposition is not validated and may compromise clamping symmetry and reliability.

What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation for the P4KA6.8HE3/73?

The P4KA6.8HE3/73 has a maximum steady-state power dissipation (P_D) of 1.5 W when mounted on an infinite heatsink at lead temperature (T_L) = 75 °C, per Figure 5 in the Vishay datasheet. This rating applies to continuous forward conduction-not transient suppression-and is derated linearly above 75 °C. For normal TVS operation, the device remains in high-impedance standby mode; P_D is relevant only during sustained overvoltage faults exceeding V_WM.

P4KA6.8HE3/73 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):: 5.5V

Voltage - Breakdown (Min):: 6.12V

Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:: 10.8V

Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):: 37A

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)

P4KA6.8HE3/73 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for P4KA6.8HE3/73 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KA6.8HE3/73 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 P4KA6.8HE3/73 reliable?

The price and inventory of P4KA6.8HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KA6.8HE3/73 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KA6.8HE3/73?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KA6.8HE3/73 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for P4KA6.8HE3/73?

P4KA6.8HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your P4KA6.8HE3/73 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 P4KA6.8HE3/73?

For technical support, including P4KA6.8HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KA6.8HE3/73 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KA6.8HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All P4KA6.8HE3/73 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 P4KA6.8HE3/73 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KA6.8HE3/73?

All P4KA6.8HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KA6.8HE3/73, 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 P4KA6.8HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for P4KA6.8HE3/73:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

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

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