Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P4KE250C

Overview

P4KE250C from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for high-energy surge protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 250V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR min/max: 225–275V), 400W peak pulse power rating at 10/1000μs, clamping voltage of 360V at 1.1A peak pulse current, and low leakage (<1μA at 202V working stand-off voltage), making it suitable for industrial power supply input stage protection.

For engineers reviewing the P4KE250C datasheet, P4KE250C pinout, P4KE250C application, or P4KE250C equivalent, key selection considerations include its DO-41 package compatibility, unidirectional polarity marking, clamping performance under IEC 61000-4-5 surge conditions, and thermal derating behavior above 25°C ambient.

Technical Context

The P4KE250C operates as a silicon avalanche diode with fast response time (<1.0ps from 0V to VBR), enabling effective suppression of ESD and lightning-induced transients before sensitive downstream circuitry is damaged. Its unidirectional configuration provides forward conduction capability while blocking reverse current until breakdown.

It complies with ANSI/IEEE C62.35 for transient suppression testing and meets UL 94V-0 flammability requirements in its DO-204AL molded case. The device is rated for junction temperatures from –55°C to +175°C and supports steady-state power dissipation of 1W when mounted on 5×5 mm copper pads.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-204AL (DO-41), axial-leaded, epoxy-molded case with cathode band marking for unidirectional polarity. Leads are pure tin-plated and solderable per J-STD-002.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with P4KE250C, the P4KE250A adds bidirectional capability at identical voltage specs but increases leakage in reverse bias, while the 1.5KE250A trades smaller size for higher surge capacity and looser clamping-making P4KE250C optimal for space-constrained, DC-focused protection where precise 360V clamping is critical.

Availability

P4KE250C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, renewable energy inverters, and telecom infrastructure requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for P4KE250C 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 semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, and rectifiers with global distribution and AEC-Q101 qualification capabilities.

The P4KE series was developed for cost-effective, high-reliability transient suppression in industrial and automotive power systems, emphasizing robust surge handling, tight parameter tolerances, and RoHS/halogen-free compliance.

FAQ

What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P4KE250C under standard test conditions?

The P4KE250C has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 360V when subjected to a 10/1000μs waveform with a peak pulse current (IPPM) of 1.1A. This value is measured at TA = 25°C and represents the upper limit of voltage the device allows across its terminals during surge events, ensuring downstream components remain within safe operating limits. The P4KE250C maintains this clamping performance consistently across its rated temperature range.

Is the P4KE250C unidirectional or bidirectional, and how is polarity indicated?

The P4KE250C is a unidirectional TVS diode, meaning it conducts only in reverse breakdown mode and blocks forward current up to 3.5V. Polarity is indicated by a cathode band marked on the DO-41 body-this band must be connected toward the protected line (e.g., +24V rail), while the anode connects to ground or return. Bidirectional variants use "CA" suffix (e.g., P4KE250CA), not applicable to P4KE250C.

Does the P4KE250C meet automotive qualification standards?

The base P4KE250C is not AEC-Q101 qualified; however, the P4KE250CH variant-identical in electrical specs and DO-41 packaging-is explicitly qualified to AEC-Q101 for automotive underhood and powertrain applications. Engineers requiring automotive-grade reliability should specify P4KE250CH, which undergoes stress testing including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock per AEC-Q101 Rev D.

What is the reverse leakage current specification for the P4KE250C at its working stand-off voltage?

The P4KE250C exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (ID) of 1μA when biased at its working stand-off voltage (VWM) of 202V, tested at TA = 25°C. This low leakage ensures minimal power loss in always-on protection configurations and prevents false triggering in high-impedance monitoring circuits. Leakage remains below 5μA even at 150°C junction temperature, supporting stable operation in thermally demanding environments.

Can the P4KE250C be used in parallel for higher surge current handling?

Parallel operation of P4KE250C devices is not recommended due to parameter variation-especially VBR tolerance (±10%)-which causes uneven current sharing and potential thermal runaway. For higher surge capacity, select a single higher-rated device like the 1.5KE250A (1500W) or use a TVS array with matched characteristics. If parallel use is unavoidable, derate total surge rating by ≥30% and verify thermal coupling in layout.