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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KE15CA-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P4KE15CA-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KE15CA-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12.8VWM 21.2VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:6,765
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Product details
Overview
P4KE15CA-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-41 package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features a 15 V breakdown voltage (VBR min/max = 14.3–15.8 V at 1.0 mA), 12.8 V stand-off voltage (VWM), and clamps to ≤21.2 V at 18.9 A peak pulse current (10/1000 μs waveform), delivering 400 W peak pulse power for surge protection in automotive sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the P4KE15CA-E3/73 datasheet, P4KE15CA-E3/73 pinout, P4KE15CA-E3/73 application, or P4KE15CA-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, DO-41 mechanical compatibility, AEC-Q101 qualification, low leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM), and thermal resistance (RθJL = 66 °C/W) for reliable transient suppression in space-constrained industrial and automotive PCB layouts.
Technical Context
This bidirectional TVS operates symmetrically across both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics in forward and reverse directions-enabling robust protection of AC-coupled or differential signal paths without polarity concerns. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown behavior and low incremental surge resistance under repetitive 10/1000 μs transients.
The device is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), derated linearly above 25 °C ambient per Fig. 2, and supports operating junction temperatures from –55 °C to +175 °C. Its 1.5 W steady-state power dissipation (at TL = 75 °C) and 66 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance allow direct solder-mount thermal management without heatsinking in most applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 14.3 V / 15.8 V at IT = 1.0 mA - defines precise clamping onset threshold for bidirectional overvoltage events |
| VWM | 12.8 V - maximum continuous working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 μA; sets safe operating margin below breakdown |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤21.2 V at 18.9 A (10/1000 μs) - actual clamped voltage during worst-case surge, critical for downstream IC voltage tolerance |
| IPPM | 18.9 A - peak surge current handling capacity under standard 10/1000 μs waveform, directly tied to 400 W rating |
| RθJL | 66 °C/W - junction-to-lead thermal resistance enables accurate thermal design for PCB trace heat sinking |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - high-temperature operation supports under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD stress |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-41 (DO-204AL), axial-leaded, molded epoxy body with matte tin-plated leads; meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating and J-STD-002 solderability requirements.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (unmarked ends) | Bidirectional terminal pair | No polarity marking required; symmetrical conduction allows placement without orientation check on PCB |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Current path terminals | Leads serve as both electrical interface and primary thermal path to PCB; RθJL = 66 °C/W assumes 10 mm lead length |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and long-term reliability under repeated surge stress |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge immunity when properly routed with low-inductance PCB layout |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive use including engine control units, ADAS sensor interfaces, and infotainment power rails |
| Low ID ≤ 1.0 μA at VWM | Minimizes standby power loss and avoids false triggering in high-impedance signal monitoring circuits |
| DO-41 mechanical compatibility | Enables drop-in replacement of legacy P4KE series and interoperability with standard axial through-hole assembly processes |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load-dump and inductive switching transients in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional clamping element placed at connector entry point to limit line voltage to ≤21.2 V during 18.9 A surges. Use Value: Prevents damage to 3.3 V/5 V microcontrollers and analog front-ends by maintaining clamped voltage below absolute maximum ratings under ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a conditions. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital input modules in programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced transients and relay coil flyback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on each isolated input channel, operating in parallel with optocoupler input circuitry. Use Value: Enables >100,000 surge cycles without degradation due to glass-passivated junction and 175 °C TJ rating, reducing field failure rates in factory automation systems. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Power Adapter ESD Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers and Ethernet PHY magnetics from lightning-induced surges on outdoor telecom wiring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-stage transient suppressor on differential data lines, coordinated with GDT or MOV secondary protection. Use Value: Fast response time and low clamping voltage (21.2 V) preserve signal integrity while meeting ITU-T K.20/21 immunity requirements for central office equipment. |
Use Scenario: Adding secondary-level surge protection on DC output rails of wall-mounted AC/DC adapters for smart home devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-leakage (≤1.0 μA) bidirectional clamp placed after primary regulation to protect downstream USB-PD controllers and battery management ICs. Use Value: Eliminates need for separate unidirectional devices on dual-rail outputs, simplifying BOM and reducing PCB footprint versus discrete anode/cathode 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15CA | Surface-mount SMB package (vs. through-hole DO-41); same VBR range (14.3–15.8 V), identical 400 W rating, but lower IPPM (23.1 A) and higher VC (24.4 V) | Designed for automated SMT assembly; unsuitable for manual prototyping or high-vibration environments requiring mechanical strain relief | Select SMBJ15CA only when board space is constrained and reflow process is fully controlled; verify VC margin with downstream IC tolerances. |
| 1.5KE15CA | Same DO-41 package but higher 1500 W peak power rating; VBR range wider (14.3–17.1 V); VC = 24.4 V at 61.5 A | Targeted at higher-energy threats (e.g., utility grid coupling); larger junction capacitance may affect high-speed signal integrity | Choose 1.5KE15CA only when system-level testing confirms >400 W surge exposure; avoid in signal-line applications due to higher clamping voltage and capacitance. |
Compared with SMBJ15CA and 1.5KE15CA, the P4KE15CA-E3/73 delivers optimal balance of proven DO-41 mechanical robustness, precise 21.2 V clamping, and AEC-Q101 qualification-making it the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, vibration-prone, and automotive-qualified designs where 400 W surge handling suffices.
Availability
P4KE15CA-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line protection requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4KE15CA-E3/73 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 TVS devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific performance.
The P4KE series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® family of transient voltage suppressors, engineered specifically for robust, standardized surge protection in automotive, industrial, and communications infrastructure applications.
FAQ
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4KE15CA-E3/73?
The "CA" suffix denotes a bidirectional configuration: the P4KE15CA-E3/73 conducts and clamps symmetrically in both polarities, making it suitable for AC signal lines, differential buses like RS-485, or any application where voltage transients can occur with either polarity. Unlike unidirectional variants (e.g., P4KE15A), it has no cathode marking and requires no orientation during placement.
Is P4KE15CA-E3/73 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4KE15CA-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified-specifically tested for temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD robustness per automotive reliability standards. This qualification applies to the HE3 variant; however, the E3/73 version shares identical die and construction, and Vishay documents the entire P4KE-CA family as AEC-Q101 capable per datasheet note (1) on page 3.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P4KE15CA-E3/73 under surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of the P4KE15CA-E3/73 is 21.2 V, measured at its peak pulse current (IPPM) of 18.9 A using the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and forms the basis for downstream IC overvoltage margin analysis in designs using the P4KE15CA-E3/73.
Can P4KE15CA-E3/73 replace P4KE15A in a circuit?
No-P4KE15CA-E3/73 is bidirectional while P4KE15A is unidirectional. Substituting them without circuit review risks improper clamping: P4KE15A blocks reverse current and only clamps positive transients, whereas P4KE15CA-E3/73 clamps both polarities. Use P4KE15CA-E3/73 only where bidirectional protection is explicitly required and verified in the schematic and layout.
What is the thermal resistance specification for P4KE15CA-E3/73?
The P4KE15CA-E3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 66 °C/W, measured with 10 mm lead length. This parameter enables accurate thermal modeling when the device is soldered directly to copper pours or chassis-grounded traces, and supports derating calculations per Figure 2 in the Vishay datasheet 88365.
P4KE15CA-E3/73 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:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12.8V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 14.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 21.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 18.9A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AL (DO-41)
P4KE15CA-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KE15CA-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KE15CA-E3/73 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 P4KE15CA-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KE15CA-E3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KE15CA-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KE15CA-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KE15CA-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KE15CA-E3/73?
P4KE15CA-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KE15CA-E3/73 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 P4KE15CA-E3/73?
For technical support, including P4KE15CA-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KE15CA-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KE15CA-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KE15CA-E3/73 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 P4KE15CA-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KE15CA-E3/73?
All P4KE15CA-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KE15CA-E3/73, 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 P4KE15CA-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KE15CA-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P4KE15CA-E3/73 Tags
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