Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KA18HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KA18HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KA18HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 14.5VWM 26.5VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,117
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Product details
Overview
P6KA18HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in power rails and signal lines. It features a 16.2 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 14.5 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 185 °C maximum junction temperature, and DO-204AC (DO-15) package - deployed in automotive engine control units to clamp load-dump transients.
For engineers reviewing the P6KA18HE3/73 datasheet, P6KA18HE3/73 pinout, P6KA18HE3/73 application, or P6KA18HE3/73 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, clamping performance at 22.6 A IPPM, thermal derating behavior, and direct alternatives with documented VBR/VC and polarity alignment.
Technical Context
This TVS diode uses passivated anisotropic rectifier technology optimized for high-temperature stability and low incremental surge resistance. Its unidirectional polarity enables forward-conduction clamping during positive transients while blocking reverse leakage up to 1.0 μA at 14.5 V.
The device meets AEC-Q101 stress test requirements and supports operation from −65 °C to +185 °C junction temperature. Its 10/1000 μs waveform response delivers 26.5 V maximum clamping voltage at 22.6 A peak pulse current, with 0.088 %/°C VBR temperature coefficient ensuring predictable threshold drift across automotive thermal profiles.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 14.5 V - Maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without significant leakage; defines safe operating margin below clamping onset. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 16.2–19.8 V at 1.0 mA - Voltage at which device enters avalanche conduction; ensures reliable triggering before downstream IC damage thresholds. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 26.5 V at 22.6 A (10/1000 μs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; directly limits stress on MOSFET gate drivers or MCU I/O. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 600 W - Sustained energy-handling capability under standardized 10/1000 μs transient; validates suitability for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load-dump events. |
| TJmax | +185 °C - Enables placement near high-heat sources (e.g., power converters) without derating loss; certified for under-hood automotive use. |
| Polarity | Unidirectional - Provides asymmetric protection: clamps positive transients only; requires external reverse-bias blocking if bidirectional suppression needed. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated per stress tests including HTGB, HTRB, and temperature cycling; required for automotive powertrain and body electronics. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), molded epoxy case with matte tin-plated leads; cathode denoted by color band; RoHS-compliant (HE3 suffix); JESD 201 Class 2 whisker tested.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry during forward conduction / surge clamping | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); conducts during positive overvoltage to shunt energy to ground. |
| Cathode | Current exit during clamping / reference node | Typically tied to system ground; establishes reference for VBR and VC; color band identifies this terminal physically. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Junction passivation | Optimized anisotropic rectifier process reduces leakage drift and improves long-term reliability under thermal cycling. |
| High-temperature operation | Rated to +185 °C junction temperature - eliminates need for thermal derating in under-hood ECUs or industrial motor drives. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR) | ~1.63 (26.5 V / 16.2 V min) - tighter voltage margin between trigger and clamp reduces risk of over-stress on protected components. |
| Solderability & plating | Matte tin leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102; withstands 275 °C solder dip for 10 s - supports lead-free reflow and wave processes. |
| Surge robustness | 75 A IFSM (8.3 ms half-sine) - handles repetitive inrush currents from relay coils or solenoids without degradation. |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) Power Input | Industrial PLC Digital Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects 12 V supply rail against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) transients up to 65 V, 400 ms duration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS clamping element placed between battery feed and DC/DC input stage. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤26.5 V during 22.6 A surge, preventing overvoltage failure of buck converter controllers and LDOs. |
Use Scenario: Shields 24 V digital input channels from inductive kickback when switching solenoid valves or contactors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary front-end transient suppressor on field-side signal conditioning PCB. Use Value: Clamps 1 kV/μs fast-rising spikes within 1 ns response time, preserving optocoupler isolation integrity and microcontroller GPIO safety. |
| Telecom Base Station DC Power Distribution | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Board |
Use Scenario: Guards +48 V backplane rails against lightning-induced surges and hot-swap transients in outdoor cabinet installations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS in cascade with upstream GDT or MOV for coordinated protection staging. Use Value: Delivers 600 W peak power handling with <1.0 μA leakage at 39 V - maintains efficiency in always-on telecom systems. |
Use Scenario: Safeguards H-bridge gate driver ICs from shoot-through-induced voltage spikes during BLDC motor commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Localized clamping device mounted adjacent to half-bridge MOSFETs on compact motor control PCB. Use Value: Withstands repeated 75 A surge events (8.3 ms) without parameter shift - critical for appliance lifetime validation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar unidirectional TVS diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ18A | Same VWM (15.3 V), lower PPPM (400 W), SMA package (smaller footprint, lower thermal mass) | Limited to lower-energy transients; unsuitable for automotive load-dump where 600 W is mandated. | Select P6KA18HE3/73 when AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-15 mechanical robustness, or 600 W rating is required. |
| 1.5KE18A | Higher VC (29.2 V), same VWM/VBR, axial-lead package, no AEC-Q101 qualification | Not validated for automotive thermal cycling or humidity testing; lacks whisker-resistant plating. | Choose P6KA18HE3/73 for production automotive designs requiring full AEC-Q101 compliance and surface-mount assembly. |
Compared with SMAJ18A and 1.5KE18A, P6KA18HE3/73 provides higher surge power headroom, guaranteed automotive qualification, and DO-15 mechanical stability - making it the preferred choice for safety-critical 12 V rail protection where long-term reliability under thermal stress is mandatory.
Availability
P6KA18HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU design, industrial PLC input modules, and telecom DC power distribution requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 traceability, and DO-204AC mechanical compatibility.
Supply support for P6KA18HE3/73 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, rectifiers, and protection devices with emphasis on high-reliability and automotive-grade performance.
The P6KA series was engineered specifically for harsh-environment transient suppression - targeting under-hood automotive, industrial automation, and infrastructure equipment where extended temperature range and AEC-Q101 validation are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KA18HE3/73 at its rated peak pulse current?
The P6KA18HE3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 26.5 V when subjected to its specified peak pulse current of 22.6 A under the standard 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and represents the upper voltage limit imposed on the protected circuit during surge events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The P6KA18HE3/73 achieves this with minimal overshoot due to its low incremental surge resistance.
Is the P6KA18HE3/73 qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KA18HE3/73 is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, having passed all required stress tests including high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB), high-temperature gate bias (HTGB), and temperature cycling. Its 185 °C maximum junction temperature rating and RoHS-compliant HE3 suffix (JESD 201 Class 2 whisker tested) further validate its suitability for engine control units, body control modules, and other automotive systems. The P6KA18HE3/73 documentation confirms qualification per the full AEC-Q101 standard.
What does the "HE3" suffix indicate in P6KA18HE3/73?
The "HE3" suffix in P6KA18HE3/73 denotes Vishay's RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated termination with JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance certification. It also signifies compliance with UL 94 V-0 flammability standards for the epoxy molding compound. This suffix differentiates the part from non-RoHS variants and confirms suitability for lead-free soldering processes - essential for modern automotive and industrial manufacturing. The P6KA18HE3/73 meets both environmental and reliability requirements defined by these specifications.
How does the P6KA18HE3/73 compare to the P6KA18A variant?
The P6KA18HE3/73 and P6KA18A share identical electrical specifications - including VWM = 14.5 V, VBR = 17.1–18.9 V, VC = 25.2 V, and PPPM = 600 W - but differ in packaging and qualification. The P6KA18HE3/73 carries the HE3 suffix confirming RoHS compliance and AEC-Q101 qualification, whereas P6KA18A lacks the HE3 designation and associated certifications. For production automotive use, the P6KA18HE3/73 is the validated, traceable option.
Can the P6KA18HE3/73 be used in bidirectional protection circuits?
No, the P6KA18HE3/73 is strictly unidirectional and must not be used for bidirectional transient suppression. Its design clamps only positive-going transients relative to cathode; reverse voltage beyond VWM will cause leakage but no controlled clamping. For AC or dual-polarity signal lines, a dedicated bidirectional TVS (e.g., P6SMB18CA) or back-to-back unidirectional configuration is required. Using the P6KA18HE3/73 in bidirectional roles risks inadequate protection and potential device failure.
P6KA18HE3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- PAR®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 14.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 22.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 185°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
P6KA18HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KA18HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KA18HE3/73 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 P6KA18HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KA18HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KA18HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KA18HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KA18HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KA18HE3/73?
P6KA18HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KA18HE3/73 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 P6KA18HE3/73?
For technical support, including P6KA18HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KA18HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KA18HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KA18HE3/73 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 P6KA18HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KA18HE3/73?
All P6KA18HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KA18HE3/73, 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 P6KA18HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KA18HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KA18HE3/73 Tags

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