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Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P4KE68A
- Part No.:
- P4KE68A
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P4KE68A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 58.1VWM 92VC DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,509
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Product details
Overview
P4KE68A from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 400W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary-side overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a nominal breakdown voltage of 68 V, clamps transients to ≤92 V at 4.5 A peak pulse current, and maintains low leakage (<1 µA at 58.1 V working stand-off), making it suitable for automotive body electronics and industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the P4KE68A datasheet, P4KE68A pinout, P4KE68A application, or P4KE68A equivalent, this device is selected for robust ESD and lightning surge immunity where fast response (<1.0 ps), high surge rating (400 W @ 10/1000 µs), and DO-41 package compatibility are critical design requirements.
Technical Context
The P4KE68A operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode with precise voltage thresholding defined by its 64.6–71.4 V breakdown range at 1 mA test current. Its clamping behavior is characterized by a maximum VC of 92 V at IPPM = 4.5 A under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform conditions, ensuring predictable energy diversion during transient events.
Thermal performance is governed by a 175 °C maximum junction temperature and 1 W steady-state power dissipation at 75 °C lead temperature, with derating above 25 °C per published curve. Polarity is marked by a cathode band, and the device complies with AEC-Q101 for automotive-grade reliability when ordered with "H" suffix.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR min/max | 64.6 V / 71.4 V at 1 mA - defines tight voltage threshold window for reliable turn-on before system damage |
| VWM | 58.1 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage without significant leakage |
| IPPM | 4.5 A - peak pulse current it safely clamps at rated 400 W surge (10/1000 µs) |
| VC@IPPM | 92 V - maximum clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during full-rated surge |
| IR@VWM | <1 µA - ensures negligible standby power loss and no interference with high-impedance sensing |
| TJ max | 175 °C - enables operation in under-hood automotive and industrial environments |
| Package | DO-204AL (DO-41) - industry-standard axial leaded package compatible with through-hole assembly and manual rework |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AL (DO-41) package with axial leads; cathode indicated by a single band on the body. Leads are pure tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002, and meet JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side reference terminal | Connected to ground or lowest potential node; completes conduction path during reverse transient |
| Cathode | High-side transient input terminal | Connected to protected line; avalanche conduction initiates here when VAK exceeds VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 400 W peak pulse power | Handles IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV, 2 Ω source) without degradation |
| Clamping voltage ≤92 V | Protects 75 V-rated downstream ICs (e.g., CAN transceivers, MCU I/O) from overvoltage stress |
| Response time <1.0 ps | Activates faster than most semiconductor switching transients, minimizing voltage overshoot |
| AEC-Q101 qualified option | Available as P4KE68AH for automotive applications requiring qualification traceability |
| UL 94V-0 molding compound | Meets flammability safety standards for enclosed industrial and transportation equipment |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial PLC Input Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus and switch inputs from load dump and inductive kickback in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between input pin and chassis ground to clamp transients before they reach MCU GPIO or LIN transceiver. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 5 V/12 V tolerant interface ICs during 12 V system load dump events (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a). |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input channels on programmable logic controllers against field-wiring ESD and surge coupling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-level surge suppression on dry-contact or optocoupler input side, upstream of series current-limiting resistor. Use Value: Enables compliance with IEC 61000-4-4 (EFT) and IEC 61000-4-5 (surge) immunity requirements up to 2 kV/1 kV respectively. |
| DC Power Rail Protection | LED Driver Overvoltage Clamp |
|
Use Scenario: Guarding 48 V telecom or PoE-powered equipment front-end regulators from accidental AC line cross-coupling or lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across input capacitor to shunt energy away from DC-DC controller ICs and MOSFETs. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤92 V, well below 100 V absolute maximum ratings of common buck controllers and power FETs. |
Use Scenario: Protecting constant-current LED driver ICs from output open-circuit transients caused by hot-plug disconnection or cable fault. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cathode tied to LED string anode, anode grounded - clamps positive voltage spikes generated by inductive energy release in driver inductor. Use Value: Avoids overvoltage failure of driver's internal high-side switch while maintaining stable current regulation during normal operation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ68A | Same DO-214AC (SMA) package; 68 V VBR, 92 V VC, but 400 W rating at 10/1000 µs with higher thermal resistance | Surface-mount only; requires PCB re-layout; better for automated high-volume production | Select when space-constrained designs demand SMD footprint and thermal management via copper pour is feasible |
| ON Semiconductor 1.5KE68A | Higher 1500 W peak power, same VBR/VC, but larger DO-201AD package and 1.2 W steady-state dissipation | Used where higher surge margin is required (e.g., outdoor telecom cabinets), but needs more board area | Choose for applications needing >400 W headroom or legacy DO-201AD footprint compatibility |
Compared with SMAJ68A and 1.5KE68A, the P4KE68A offers optimal balance of axial through-hole manufacturability, 400 W surge capability, and compact DO-41 footprint-ideal for cost-sensitive, medium-volume industrial and automotive aftermarket designs where layout flexibility and hand-soldering support are valued.
Availability
P4KE68A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC input protection, and DC power rail surge suppression requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P4KE68A 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 P4KE68A belongs to TSC's P4KE series of unidirectional TVS diodes engineered specifically for high-reliability transient suppression in harsh environments-including AEC-Q101-qualified variants for automotive under-hood use.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance of the P4KE68A?
The P4KE68A has a specified breakdown voltage range of 64.6 V to 71.4 V at 1 mA test current, representing ±5% tolerance around the nominal 68 V rating. This tight VBR window ensures consistent clamping behavior across production lots and supports reliable overvoltage thresholding in safety-critical circuits such as automotive power distribution units. The P4KE68A datasheet confirms this range under standard test conditions (TA = 25°C).
Is the P4KE68A suitable for bidirectional transient protection?
No, the P4KE68A is a unidirectional TVS diode and is not rated for bidirectional operation. Its electrical characteristics-including breakdown voltage and clamping-apply only in reverse bias (cathode positive). For bidirectional protection, the P4KE68CA variant must be used. The P4KE68A datasheet explicitly states polarity marking (cathode band) and lists forward voltage (VF = 3.5 V) only for unidirectional conduction, confirming its single-direction functionality.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P4KE68A during a 400 W surge event?
The P4KE68A clamps to a maximum of 92 V when subjected to its rated 400 W peak pulse power under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform, corresponding to a peak pulse current of 4.5 A. This value is measured at the device terminals and represents the highest voltage imposed on the protected circuit during full-rated surge conditions. The P4KE68A specification table lists VC@IPPM = 92 V as an absolute maximum parameter.
Does the P4KE68A meet automotive qualification standards?
The base P4KE68A is not AEC-Q101 qualified; however, the P4KE68AH variant-identical in electrical and thermal specifications-is fully AEC-Q101 certified for automotive applications. The "H" suffix denotes qualification, including extended temperature cycling, humidity testing, and mechanical shock validation. Engineers selecting the P4KE68A for automotive use must specify the "H" version to ensure compliance with automotive reliability requirements.
How does the P4KE68A compare to the 1.5KE68A in terms of physical size and mounting?
The P4KE68A uses the DO-204AL (DO-41) axial leaded package (typical dimensions: 4.2 mm diameter × 7.6 mm length), while the 1.5KE68A uses the larger DO-201AD package (5.6 mm × 9.5 mm). The P4KE68A's smaller size allows tighter board spacing and compatibility with legacy through-hole tooling, whereas the 1.5KE68A requires greater PCB real estate and higher lead-forming force. Both share identical voltage ratings but differ in surge capacity (400 W vs. 1500 W) and thermal mass.
P4KE68A 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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 58.1V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 64.6V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 92V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 4.5A
- 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)
P4KE68A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4KE68A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4KE68A 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 P4KE68A reliable?
The price and inventory of P4KE68A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4KE68A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4KE68A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4KE68A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4KE68A?
P4KE68A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4KE68A 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 P4KE68A?
For technical support, including P4KE68A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4KE68A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4KE68A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4KE68A 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 P4KE68A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4KE68A?
All P4KE68A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4KE68A, 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 P4KE68A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4KE68A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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