Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P4KE400C

Overview

P4KE400C from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 400W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for high-energy surge protection in DC power lines and signal interfaces. It features a 400V breakdown voltage (V_BR min = 360 V, max = 440 V), 324 V working stand-off voltage (V_WM), clamps to ≤574 V at 0.73 A peak pulse current, and operates across –55°C to +175°C junction temperature.

For engineers reviewing the P4KE400C datasheet, P4KE400C pinout, P4KE400C application, or P4KE400C equivalent, key selection criteria include its DO-204AL (DO-41) axial package, bidirectional-capable marking ('C' suffix denotes bidirectional variant per series documentation), low leakage (<1 µA @ 324 V), and compliance with AEC-Q101 for automotive-grade reliability.

Technical Context

The P4KE400C is a silicon avalanche diode optimized for transient suppression using the 10/1000 µs standard waveform. Its clamping action begins within <1.0 ps from 0 V to V_BR, enabling protection of downstream ICs against ESD, lightning-induced surges, and inductive switching transients.

It exhibits a temperature coefficient of V_BR = 0.110 %/°C and maintains stable performance up to T_J = 175°C. The device supports unidirectional operation by default but the 'C' suffix confirms bidirectional configuration - electrical characteristics apply identically in both directions per series specification.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DO-204AL (DO-41) axial-leaded package with cathode band marking for polarity identification. Bidirectional configuration ('C' suffix) eliminates need for orientation-specific placement.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with P4KE400C, P4KE400CA offers identical electrical behavior and qualification, while 1.5KE400A trades compactness for higher surge capacity - making P4KE400C optimal for cost-sensitive, space-limited automotive and industrial modules where 400W is sufficient.

Availability

P4KE400C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive electronics, industrial PLCs, LED driver systems, and telecom power feeds requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101-compliant surge protection.

Supply support for P4KE400C 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, rectifiers, and MOSFETs, with global manufacturing and quality certifications.

The P4KE series targets high-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and lighting applications - engineered for robust clamping, low leakage, and extended thermal endurance in harsh environments.

FAQ

What does the 'C' suffix in P4KE400C indicate?

The 'C' suffix in P4KE400C designates a bidirectional configuration, meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression in both polarities without requiring orientation-specific mounting. This differs from unidirectional variants (e.g., P4KE400) which require correct anode/cathode placement. The P4KE400C maintains identical V_BR, V_C, and P_PK specifications in either direction, as confirmed in the series datasheet section "Devices for bipolar applications".

Is P4KE400C AEC-Q101 qualified?

Yes, P4KE400C is AEC-Q101 qualified, as explicitly stated in the "FEATURES" section of the official Taiwan Semiconductor datasheet (Version N2104). This qualification validates its suitability for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and ADAS subsystems where reliability under thermal cycling, mechanical shock, and humidity is critical. The qualification applies specifically to P4KE400C, not all P4KE400 variants.

What is the maximum clamping voltage of P4KE400C under surge conditions?

The maximum clamping voltage (V_C) of P4KE400C is 574 V at its rated peak pulse current of 0.73 A, tested with the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value represents the upper limit of voltage seen by downstream components during a full 400W surge event. It is measured at T_A = 25°C and remains stable across the full –55°C to +175°C operating junction temperature range per datasheet Fig.2 derating curves.

Can P4KE400C replace P4KE400 in an existing design?

No - P4KE400C cannot directly replace P4KE400 without circuit review, because P4KE400 is unidirectional while P4KE400C is bidirectional. Although both share identical V_BR, V_WM, and V_C ratings, the unidirectional P4KE400 requires correct polarity placement, whereas P4KE400C functions identically in either orientation. Substitution may cause unexpected conduction paths or reduced protection margin if the original design relies on directional blocking.

What packaging options are available for P4KE400C?

P4KE400C is supplied in DO-204AL (DO-41) axial package with two standard packing formats: 5,000 pieces per tape-and-reel (ordering code P4KE400CH) and 3,000 pieces per ammo box (ordering code P4KE400CHA0G). Both options feature pure tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability standards and meet JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance requirements.