Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P6KE120CA
- Part No.:
- P6KE120CA
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE120CA.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 102VWM 165VC DO15
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,008
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Product details
Overview
P6KE120CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for high-energy ESD and surge protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 120V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR min/max: 108–132V), 600W peak pulse power rating at 10/1000μs, clamping voltage of 173V at 3.6A peak surge current, and DO-204AC (DO-15) axial package - deployed in automotive body control modules to protect CAN transceivers from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE120CA datasheet, P6KE120CA pinout, P6KE120CA application, or P6KE120CA equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping behavior, low dynamic impedance (<1Ω typical), sub-5ns response time, <1μA reverse leakage above 10V, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.
Technical Context
The P6KE120CA operates as a silicon avalanche diode with symmetrical bidirectional breakdown characteristics, enabling identical clamping performance in both polarities without external polarity management. Its junction structure delivers fast turn-on (≤5.0ns response from 0V to VBR) and stable voltage regulation under repetitive surge stress up to TJ = 175°C.
Designed per ANSI/IEEE C62.35 standards, it sustains non-repetitive 10/1000μs surges up to 3.6A while maintaining VC ≤ 173V, and exhibits a temperature coefficient of VBR at +0.107%/°C - enabling predictable derating across industrial and automotive ambient ranges.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 108V / 132V at IT = 1mA - defines guaranteed conduction onset window for bidirectional surge clamping |
| VWM | 97.2V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before significant leakage begins |
| VC @ IPPM | 173V at 3.6A - clamped voltage during worst-case 10/1000μs surge, limiting downstream IC stress |
| PPK | 600W - peak pulse power handling capability per single 10/1000μs waveform, not repetitive |
| IR @ VWM | <1μA - ensures negligible standby current draw in always-on systems like automotive ECUs |
| TJ max | +175°C - enables operation in under-hood environments without thermal shutdown |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - industry-standard axial leaded package with 0.400g mass and UL 94V-0 molding |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) axial package with cathode band marking for unidirectional variants; P6KE120CA is bidirectional and symmetric - no polarity marking required. 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/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bidirectional avalanche junction | Either terminal serves as anode or cathode depending on transient polarity - no PCB orientation dependency |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | Current path terminals | Direct connection to protected line and ground/reference rail; low-inductance layout critical for sub-5ns response |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control, body electronics, and infotainment power rails |
| 600W surge rating (10/1000μs) | Withstands ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1, 2a, 3a/b, and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges without degradation |
| ≤5.0ns response time | Clamps transients before sensitive logic or analog circuitry experiences overvoltage stress |
| Low dynamic impedance | Ensures minimal voltage overshoot during fast-rising ESD events (e.g., IEC 61000-4-2 ±8kV contact discharge) |
| RoHS & halogen-free | Complies with IEC 61249-2-21 and automotive ELV directive requirements for sustainable manufacturing |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus transceivers and power supply inputs from battery load dump and alternator ripple in door module ECUs. IC Role / Device Role: Primary bidirectional surge clamp on 12V rail and LIN signal line. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤173V during 100V/50ms load dump events, preventing latch-up or burnout of TJA1020 transceivers. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24V digital input channels in programmable logic controllers exposed to inductive kickback from solenoid valves. IC Role / Device Role: Front-end TVS on isolated optocoupler input stage. Use Value: Clamps 600V/0.5A transients within 5ns, preserving signal integrity and extending optocoupler lifetime beyond 100,000 switching cycles. |
| Smart Lighting Driver | Medical Diagnostic Equipment |
Use Scenario: Shielding constant-current LED driver ICs from ESD and lightning-induced surges on AC mains input and DALI communication lines. IC Role / Device Role: Secondary-level TVS after MOV primary protection on bridge rectifier output. Use Value: Provides precise 120V clamping with <1μA leakage, avoiding false triggering of overvoltage protection in dimming circuits. |
Use Scenario: Protecting USB and RS-232 interfaces on portable ultrasound and ECG devices from hospital-grade ESD events. IC Role / Device Role: Board-level ESD suppressor on data line pairs prior to level-shifting transceivers. Use Value: Delivers <5ns response and 173V clamping to maintain signal fidelity below 100mV noise floor in analog front-end acquisition paths. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Littelfuse SMAJ120CA | Same DO-214AC package, 120V VBR, but 400W PPK rating and higher VC (193V @ 3.1A) | Lower surge margin; suitable only where space constraints prevent DO-15 use | Select when board real estate requires SMD footprint and 400W suffices for system-level testing |
| ON Semiconductor 1.5KE120CA | Same DO-204AC package, identical 120V VBR range, but 1500W PPK and higher IPP (10.3A) | Over-specified for most 600W-class designs; increases cost and thermal mass unnecessarily | Choose only if legacy 1.5KE-series compliance is mandated or if future-proofing against higher surge test levels is required |
Compared with SMAJ120CA and 1.5KE120CA, the P6KE120CA delivers optimal balance of 600W surge capacity, DO-15 manufacturability, AEC-Q101 validation, and tight 173V clamping - making it the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, high-volume automotive and industrial power rail protection where exact 600W compliance is specified.
Availability
P6KE120CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC I/O modules, smart lighting drivers, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for P6KE120CA 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 P6KE series belongs to TSC's AEC-Q101-qualified TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for robust, low-cost DC rail protection in harsh electromagnetic environments - emphasizing fast response, repeatable clamping, and long-term reliability under thermal cycling.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P6KE120CA at its rated surge current?
The P6KE120CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 173V at 3.6A peak pulse current (IPP), measured under the standard 10/1000μs waveform. This value ensures downstream components such as microcontrollers or transceivers remain within safe operating voltage limits during surge events. The P6KE120CA achieves this with low dynamic impedance and symmetrical bidirectional conduction.
Is P6KE120CA suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, P6KE120CA is AEC-Q101 qualified (as indicated by the "H" suffix variant P6KE120CAH), making it suitable for automotive powertrain, chassis, and body electronics. It meets stringent requirements for temperature cycling, humidity resistance, and surge immunity - confirmed through TSC's certified test reports. The P6KE120CA operates reliably from −55°C to +175°C junction temperature.
How does P6KE120CA differ from unidirectional P6KE120A?
The P6KE120CA is bidirectional with identical breakdown and clamping behavior in both polarities, while P6KE120A is unidirectional and requires correct cathode orientation on PCB. The "CA" suffix denotes center-tap symmetry - essential for protecting AC-coupled or floating signal lines. The P6KE120CA eliminates polarity-dependent layout errors and supports dual-rail protection without additional components.
What is the maximum steady-state power dissipation for P6KE120CA?
The P6KE120CA has a steady-state power dissipation (PD) of 5W at TA = 75°C with 9.5mm lead lengths mounted on 5×5 mm copper pads. This rating applies only to continuous DC or low-frequency conditions - not surge events. For normal operation, reverse leakage remains below 1μA above 10V, resulting in negligible static power loss. The P6KE120CA relies on short-duration surge handling rather than continuous power dissipation.
Does P6KE120CA require a heatsink for standard surge protection use?
No, the P6KE120CA does not require a heatsink in standard transient suppression applications because its 600W rating applies to non-repetitive 10/1000μs pulses - not continuous power. Thermal energy per event is low (≈600mJ), and the DO-204AC package dissipates it rapidly. Heatsinking is unnecessary unless subjected to frequent, high-duty-cycle surges exceeding derating curves in Figure 2 of the P6KE120CA datasheet.
P6KE120CA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 102V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 114V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 165V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 3.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-15
P6KE120CA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE120CA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE120CA 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 P6KE120CA reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE120CA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE120CA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE120CA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE120CA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE120CA?
P6KE120CA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE120CA 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 P6KE120CA?
For technical support, including P6KE120CA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE120CA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE120CA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE120CA 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 P6KE120CA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE120CA?
All P6KE120CA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE120CA, 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 P6KE120CA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE120CA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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