Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P4KE18CA
- Part No.:
- P4KE18CA
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KE18CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.5VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,313
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Product details
Overview
P4KE18CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional 400W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust ESD and surge protection in power rails and signal lines. It features a nominal breakdown voltage of 18 V, clamps transients to ≤25.5 V at 16.5 A peak pulse current, and operates across –55°C to +175°C junction temperature. It is used in automotive lighting control modules to protect CAN transceiver inputs from load-dump-induced spikes.
For engineers reviewing the P4KE18CA datasheet, P4KE18CA pinout, P4KE18CA application, or P4KE18CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its bidirectional DO-41 package, 15.3 V working stand-off voltage, <1 μA reverse leakage at VWM, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
Technical Context
The P4KE18CA is a silicon avalanche diode configured as a bidirectional TVS, enabling symmetrical clamping in both polarities without external polarity management. Its 10/1000 μs waveform surge rating of 400 W and fast response time (<5 ns) ensure effective suppression of EFT and lightning-induced transients.
It exhibits a temperature coefficient of 0.088 %/°C for VBR and maintains stable clamping performance up to TJ = 175°C. The device uses a DO-204AL (DO-41) package with pure tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15.3 V - Maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without significant leakage |
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V @ 1 mA - Confirmed breakdown range defining turn-on threshold under standardized test conditions |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.5 V @ 16.5 A - Clamping voltage during 400 W 10/1000 μs surge, directly limiting downstream IC stress |
| PPK | 400 W - Peak pulse power handling per single non-repetitive 10/1000 μs transient, per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 |
| ID @ VWM | <1 μA - Ultra-low reverse leakage ensures minimal standby power loss in battery-powered systems |
| TJ max | +175°C - Enables operation in under-hood automotive environments and high-temperature industrial enclosures |
| Package | DO-204AL (DO-41) - Industry-standard axial leaded package with UL 94V-0 molding compound and 0.300 g mass |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AL (DO-41) axial-leaded package with cathode band marking omitted for bidirectional configuration; terminals are non-polarized and interchangeable.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche junction | Either terminal serves as anode or cathode depending on transient polarity; no fixed polarity assignment |
| Lead 1 | Current path input | Connects to protected line (e.g., CAN_H); carries full surge current during clamping event |
| Lead 2 | Current path return | Connects to reference plane (e.g., chassis ground or signal return); completes low-inductance clamp loop |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics per stress-test requirements |
| 400 W 10/1000 μs surge rating | Withstands high-energy transients from ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a/b (load dump) without degradation |
| <5 ns response time (bidirectional) | Clamps EFT bursts (IEC 61000-4-4) before sensitive logic thresholds are exceeded |
| RoHS & halogen-free | Complies with IEC 61249-2-21 and EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU for green manufacturing |
| UL recognition (E326243) | Meets UL 497B for telecom and industrial surge protection system certification |
Applications
| Automotive Lighting Control | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting LED driver ICs in headlamp modules from alternator load-dump spikes and ISO 16750-2 transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across power rail (VCC–GND) to clamp surges before they reach buck controller inputs. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤25.5 V during 400 W surges, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 36 V-rated drivers. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input channels in programmable logic controllers against field-wiring induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Installed between terminal block and optocoupler input to absorb IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (2 kV) surges. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping within 5 ns while drawing <1 μA leakage at 24 V nominal rail. |
| USB-C Power Delivery Port | Smart Meter Communication Interface |
Use Scenario: Protecting CC and VBUS lines in USB-C PD ports from ESD (±15 kV contact) and hot-swap transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed inline on CC1/CC2 differential pair to suppress common-mode ESD without distorting signaling. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping ensures equal protection for both polarity states during plug insertion/removal events. |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers in utility smart meters from induced surges on long outdoor data runs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted across A/B bus lines to clamp differential and common-mode transients simultaneously. Use Value: Withstands repeated 10/1000 μs surges up to 400 W while maintaining <1 μA leakage for low-power meter sleep modes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18CA (Bourns) | Same 18 V nominal, 400 W rating, but SMB package (surface-mount); lower thermal resistance (15°C/W vs. 50°C/W) | Requires PCB rework for SMT layout; better suited for space-constrained consumer electronics vs. through-hole industrial designs | Select when board real estate is limited and automated assembly is preferred over manual through-hole placement |
| 1.5KE18CA (ON Semiconductor) | Identical DO-41 package and 18 V rating, but rated for 1500 W peak power (10/1000 μs); higher VC = 27.7 V | Over-spec'd for 400 W use cases; may compromise clamping precision in low-voltage logic protection | Choose only when legacy 1.5KE footprint compatibility is required and higher clamping voltage is acceptable |
Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the P4KE18CA offers optimal balance of proven automotive qualification, axial-leaded serviceability, and precise 25.5 V clamping-making it ideal for cost-sensitive, high-reliability through-hole surge protection where thermal derating and layout flexibility matter.
Availability
P4KE18CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting systems, industrial PLC I/O modules, and smart meter communication interfaces requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 compliance.
Supply support for P4KE18CA 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, serving global automotive, industrial, and consumer markets since 1979.
The P4KE series belongs to TSC's AEC-Q101-qualified TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for high-reliability transient suppression in harsh-environment applications such as automotive power distribution and industrial control systems.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P4KE18CA under maximum surge conditions?
The P4KE18CA clamps to a maximum of 25.5 V when subjected to its rated 16.5 A peak pulse current (IPPM), corresponding to a 400 W 10/1000 μs transient. This value is measured per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 and guarantees predictable overvoltage limiting for downstream 3.3 V or 5 V logic circuits protected by the P4KE18CA.
Is the P4KE18CA suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P4KE18CA is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly listed in Taiwan Semiconductor's automotive-grade product documentation. Its –55°C to +175°C operating junction temperature range, DO-41 mechanical robustness, and UL E326243 recognition make it appropriate for under-hood and body-control module deployments where the P4KE18CA provides certified surge immunity.
How does the bidirectional configuration of the P4KE18CA affect circuit design?
The P4KE18CA's bidirectional structure eliminates polarity sensitivity-either lead can connect to line or ground-simplifying layout and reducing BOM complexity in AC-coupled or differential signal paths. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the P4KE18CA requires no orientation check during assembly, and its symmetrical VBR ensures identical clamping in both directions, critical for protecting RS-485 or CAN bus lines.
What is the reverse leakage current of the P4KE18CA at its working voltage?
At its 15.3 V working stand-off voltage (VWM), the P4KE18CA exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1 μA at 25°C. This ultra-low leakage preserves battery life in always-on systems and avoids false triggering in high-impedance sensing nodes, confirming the P4KE18CA's suitability for low-power automotive and IoT edge devices.
Does the P4KE18CA have any industry certifications beyond AEC-Q101?
Yes, the P4KE18CA is UL Recognized under file #E326243 for transient voltage surge suppressors, compliant with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU, and halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21. These certifications validate its safety, environmental compliance, and suitability for use in UL-certified end equipment-key for industrial and medical-adjacent applications where the P4KE18CA is deployed.
P4KE18CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Series:
- P4KE
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15.3V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 25.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 16.5A
- 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)
P4KE18CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KE18CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KE18CA 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 P4KE18CA reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KE18CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KE18CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KE18CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KE18CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KE18CA?
P4KE18CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KE18CA 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 P4KE18CA?
For technical support, including P4KE18CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KE18CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KE18CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KE18CA 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 P4KE18CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KE18CA?
All P4KE18CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KE18CA, 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 P4KE18CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KE18CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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