Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4KE18CAHE3/73
- Part No.:
- P4KE18CAHE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KE18CAHE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,993
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Product details
Overview
P4KE18CAHE3/73 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 18 V breakdown voltage (VBR min/max = 17.1–18.9 V), 15.3 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), and clamps to ≤25.2 V at 15.9 A peak pulse current - used in automotive sensor line protection and industrial I/O interface surge suppression.
For engineers reviewing the P4KE18CAHE3/73 datasheet, P4KE18CAHE3/73 pinout, P4KE18CAHE3/73 application, or P4KE18CAHE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-41 mechanical compatibility, low leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM), and thermal resistance (RθJL = 66 °C/W) for reliable transient energy dissipation in harsh environments.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamping protector with symmetrical avalanche breakdown in both polarities, enabling robust ESD and surge immunity without polarity sensitivity. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for repeatable clamping under repetitive transients.
The P4KE18CAHE3/73 is rated for 175 °C maximum junction temperature and supports 8.3 ms half-sine surge waveforms per JEDEC standards. Its 1.5 W steady-state power dissipation and 100 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance define its derating envelope in non-heatsinked PCB layouts.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise clamping onset threshold for bidirectional overvoltage events |
| VWM | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 μA |
| IPPM | 15.9 A (10/1000 μs waveform) - peak surge current it safely shunts without failure |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V - clamped voltage during full-rated surge, limiting downstream IC stress |
| PPPM | 400 W - peak transient power absorption capacity, validated per Fig. 1 curve |
| TJ max | 175 °C - enables operation in under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial environments |
| RθJL | 66 °C/W - thermal resistance from junction to lead, guiding heatsinking and trace design |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-41 (DO-204AL), molded epoxy body with matte tin-plated leads; RoHS-compliant and AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 suffix). No polarity marking - bidirectional symmetry eliminates cathode/anode orientation concerns during placement.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche junction | Either terminal serves as input/output - no directional installation required; identical clamping behavior in both directions |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Current path terminals | Leads conduct surge current to PCB ground plane or return path; solderable per J-STD-002 with 275 °C/10 s max dip tolerance |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and surge endurance per stress test plan |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures ±5% VBR tolerance and stable leakage performance across -55 °C to +175 °C operating range |
| 400 W 10/1000 μs pulse rating | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/3a and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 surges without degradation |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.4) | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast transients, protecting 24 V logic interfaces and CAN transceivers |
| UL 94 V-0 molding compound | Self-extinguishing epoxy meets flame-retardancy requirements for enclosed industrial enclosures and automotive modules |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of engine coolant temperature sensors exposed to load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional voltage clamp placed between sensor signal line and chassis ground. Use Value: Limits transient excursions to ≤25.2 V, preserving ADC input integrity and preventing microcontroller reset during 12 V system surges. |
Use Scenario: Shielding 24 V digital input channels in programmable logic controllers from inductive kickback of solenoid drivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response TVS mounted at connector entry point to divert surge energy before reaching optocoupler input stage. Use Value: Clamps 400 W transients within 1 ns, maintaining signal fidelity and avoiding false triggering of discrete input latching circuits. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Power Adapter EMI Filtering |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding RS-485 transceiver bus lines against lightning-induced surges in outdoor base station backhaul links. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Differential-mode suppressor bridging A/B lines to common-mode ground reference. Use Value: Symmetrical clamping preserves differential signaling margin while absorbing >15 A common-mode spikes per IEC 61000-4-5 Ed. 3. |
Use Scenario: Suppressing switching noise and line transients on secondary-side DC outputs of AC/DC adapters for smart home hubs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS across +VOUT and GND to filter high-frequency ringing without loading regulation loop. Use Value: 1.0 μA max leakage at 15.3 V avoids standby current penalty; DO-41 footprint integrates seamlessly into compact adapter PCB layouts. |
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 | DO-214AA package; 600 W PPPM; lower RθJA (50 °C/W); higher VC (29.2 V @ 21.2 A) | Better suited for higher-power board-level protection where space allows SMC/SMB footprint | Select when needing >400 W surge margin and improved thermal performance on larger PCB areas |
| 1.5KE18CA | DO-201AD package; 1500 W PPPM; higher IPPM (83.3 A); larger body (5.6 mm diameter) | Targeted at primary-side AC line or DC bus protection requiring higher energy handling | Choose for front-end surge suppression where physical size and cost allow larger axial package |
Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the P4KE18CAHE3/73 offers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 compliance, DO-41 legacy compatibility, and 400 W capability - making it ideal for retrofitting existing automotive and industrial designs without layout changes.
Availability
P4KE18CAHE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, industrial PLC I/O cards, telecom line interfaces, and consumer power adapter designs requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4KE18CAHE3/73 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and automotive-grade qualification.
The P4KE18CAHE3/73 belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® family of TVS diodes, engineered specifically for robust transient suppression in harsh electromagnetic environments across automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure.
FAQ
What does the 'HE3' suffix indicate in P4KE18CAHE3/73?
The HE3 suffix in P4KE18CAHE3/73 denotes RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. This distinguishes it from commercial-grade E3 variants and confirms suitability for automotive applications requiring extended temperature operation and enhanced reliability testing.
Is P4KE18CAHE3/73 unidirectional or bidirectional?
P4KE18CAHE3/73 is a bidirectional TVS diode, as confirmed by the 'CA' suffix in its part number and electrical characteristics applying equally in both directions. It has no polarity marking and provides symmetrical clamping behavior - essential for protecting AC-coupled or differential signal paths.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P4KE18CAHE3/73 under rated surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of P4KE18CAHE3/73 is 25.2 V at 15.9 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 3 in Vishay document 88365 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during full-rated transient events.
Can P4KE18CAHE3/73 replace P4KE18A in an existing design?
No - P4KE18CAHE3/73 is bidirectional while P4KE18A is unidirectional. Substituting them requires verifying circuit polarity and ensuring no forward-bias conduction path exists. The P4KE18CAHE3/73 clamps in both directions; using it in place of P4KE18A may cause unintended conduction or altered protection thresholds.
What is the thermal resistance specification for P4KE18CAHE3/73?
P4KE18CAHE3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 66 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RθJA) of 100 °C/W with 10 mm lead length. These values guide PCB copper pour sizing and determine safe steady-state power dissipation limits when operating near 175 °C maximum junction temperature.
P4KE18CAHE3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Cut Tape (CT)
- 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:
- 25.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 15.9A
- 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)
P4KE18CAHE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KE18CAHE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KE18CAHE3/73 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 P4KE18CAHE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KE18CAHE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KE18CAHE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KE18CAHE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KE18CAHE3/73 transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for P4KE18CAHE3/73?
P4KE18CAHE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KE18CAHE3/73 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 P4KE18CAHE3/73?
For technical support, including P4KE18CAHE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KE18CAHE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KE18CAHE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KE18CAHE3/73 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 P4KE18CAHE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KE18CAHE3/73?
All P4KE18CAHE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KE18CAHE3/73, 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 P4KE18CAHE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KE18CAHE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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