Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KE120HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P4KE120HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KE120HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 97.2VWM 173VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,014
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Product details
Overview
P4KE120HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-41 package, designed for robust overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features a 102 V standoff voltage (VWM), 114–126 V breakdown range (VBR at 1 mA), 165 V clamping voltage at 2.4 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 400 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed in automotive power line and industrial sensor interface protection.
For engineers reviewing the P4KE120HE3/73 datasheet, P4KE120HE3/73 pinout, P4KE120HE3/73 application, or P4KE120HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-41 leaded package compatibility with through-hole assembly, bidirectional-capable family variants (e.g., P4KE120CA), and verified clamping performance under repetitive surge conditions per IEC 61000-4-5.
Technical Context
This device operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode, leveraging glass-passivated junction technology to achieve sub-nanosecond response time and low incremental surge resistance. Its clamping behavior is defined by a tightly controlled VBR tolerance (±5%) and temperature coefficient of 0.107 %/°C, ensuring stable protection across -55 °C to +175 °C operating junction range.
The P4KE120HE3/73 is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 1.5 W steady-state power dissipation on infinite heatsink, and supports 40 A non-repetitive forward surge (8.3 ms half-sine). Its matte tin-plated leads comply with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards, and the HE3 suffix confirms AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 102 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before conduction begins; defines safe operating margin below breakdown. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 114–126 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche initiation range; ensures predictable turn-on during transients. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 165 V at IPPM = 2.4 A - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 μs surge; limits stress on downstream ICs. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Sustains single high-energy transients (e.g., ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a); derates linearly above 25 °C ambient. |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - Enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and high-temperature industrial enclosures. |
| Package | DO-41 (DO-204AL) - Standard axial-leaded through-hole package; compatible with legacy PCB layouts and wave soldering. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive electronic modules requiring reliability per stress-test requirements (HTOL, TCT, etc.). |
Pinout & Package
DO-41 (DO-204AL) molded epoxy package with axial leads; cathode indicated by color band on body. Matte tin-plated leads support J-STD-002 solderability and JESD 22-B102 thermal shock compliance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked end) | Current entry point in forward bias | Connected to ground or low-impedance return path; enables clamping when cathode-side transient exceeds VBR. |
| Cathode (banded end) | Current exit point in forward bias; high-impedance terminal in reverse standby | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); conducts only during overvoltage events to shunt surge current to ground. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enables stable, repeatable avalanche characteristics and long-term reliability under repeated surge stress. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands automotive load-dump and inductive switching transients without degradation. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix) | Validated for automotive powertrain, body control, and ADAS modules requiring zero-failure field performance. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.39) | Minimizes voltage overshoot during clamping - critical for protecting 12 V-rated MOSFETs and microcontrollers. |
| UL 94 V-0 compliant epoxy body | Meets flammability safety requirements for enclosed industrial and automotive housings. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Line Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply rails in engine control units (ECUs) against ISO 7637-2 load dump pulses up to 120 V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping device placed between battery rail and DC-DC input stage. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤165 V during 400 W surges, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream regulators and MCUs. |
Use Scenario: Shielding analog output lines (e.g., 4–20 mA current loop) of pressure sensors from ESD and cable-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby-mode protector on signal line, conducting only during >102 V excursions. Use Value: Sub-ns response ensures clamping before transient propagates into op-amp input stages, preserving measurement integrity. |
| Telecom DC Power Input | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding PoE-powered network switches against lightning-induced surges on 48 V DC input. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on bulk DC input prior to primary-side controller. Use Value: 175 °C max junction temperature allows uninterrupted operation in sealed telecom chassis with limited airflow. |
Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from brushed DC motors in washing machine control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Flyback energy diversion path across motor terminals during MOSFET turn-off. Use Value: 40 A IFSM rating handles repetitive 8.3 ms half-sine surges from motor commutation without parametric shift. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120A | Surface-mount SMB package (vs. axial DO-41); same VWM (102 V), slightly lower VC (162 V at 2.5 A). | Requires PCB redesign for SMT placement; better suited for space-constrained consumer electronics. | Select SMBJ120A when board real estate is limited and reflow soldering is preferred over wave soldering. |
| P4KE120A-E3/73 | Same DO-41 package and electrical specs, but commercial-grade (non-AEC-Q101); HE3 suffix denotes automotive qualification. | Lacks AEC-Q101 validation - unsuitable for automotive OEM or Tier 1 production programs. | Choose P4KE120A-E3/73 only for cost-sensitive industrial prototypes where automotive qualification is not required. |
Compared with SMBJ120A and P4KE120A-E3/73, the P4KE120HE3/73 uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, axial through-hole manufacturability, and proven 400 W surge handling - making it the default choice for automotive and high-reliability industrial designs requiring drop-in replacement assurance without layout change.
Availability
P4KE120HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial sensor interfaces, telecom power inputs, and appliance motor drives requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and surge stress conditions.
Supply support for P4KE120HE3/73 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 diodes, rectifiers, MOSFETs, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.
The P4KE120HE3/73 belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments including automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4KE120HE3/73 and how is it measured?
The P4KE120HE3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 165 V, measured at a peak pulse current (IPPM) of 2.4 A using a 10/1000 μs standard surge waveform. This value reflects the actual voltage imposed on the protected circuit during worst-case transient events and is guaranteed per Vishay's datasheet test conditions at TA = 25 °C.
Is the P4KE120HE3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4KE120HE3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified (confirmed by the HE3 suffix), making it suitable for automotive applications such as engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS modules. Its operating junction temperature range of -55 °C to +175 °C and validated surge performance meet stringent automotive reliability requirements.
How does the P4KE120HE3/73 differ from the P4KE120A-E3/73?
The P4KE120HE3/73 and P4KE120A-E3/73 share identical electrical specifications and DO-41 packaging, but only the HE3 version is AEC-Q101 qualified. The "H" in HE3 explicitly denotes automotive qualification, while the E3-only variant is commercial grade and not approved for automotive production use.
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) rating for the P4KE120HE3/73?
The P4KE120HE3/73 has a maximum working peak reverse voltage (VWM) of 102 V. This is the highest continuous DC or RMS voltage the device can block in standby mode without entering avalanche conduction - critical for ensuring no leakage or false triggering in 12 V or 24 V systems.
Can the P4KE120HE3/73 be used in bidirectional configurations?
No - the P4KE120HE3/73 is a unidirectional TVS diode. For bidirectional protection, Vishay offers the P4KE120CA variant (with CA suffix), which provides symmetrical clamping in both polarities and is intended for AC line or data-line protection where polarity reversal may occur.
P4KE120HE3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 97.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 108V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 173V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 2.3A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AL (DO-41)
P4KE120HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KE120HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KE120HE3/73 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 P4KE120HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KE120HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KE120HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KE120HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KE120HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KE120HE3/73?
P4KE120HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KE120HE3/73 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 P4KE120HE3/73?
For technical support, including P4KE120HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KE120HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KE120HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KE120HE3/73 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 P4KE120HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KE120HE3/73?
All P4KE120HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KE120HE3/73, 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 P4KE120HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KE120HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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