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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE120C-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE120C-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE120C-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 97.2VWM 173VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,078
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Product details
Overview
P6KE120C-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in signal and power lines. It features a 120 V breakdown voltage (VBR min/max: 114 V / 126 V), 102 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 165 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and clamps transients to ≤165 V at rated surge, all in a DO-204AC (DO-15) package. It is used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces against lightning-induced surges and inductive switching spikes in industrial and automotive control systems.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE120C-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE120C-E3/73 pinout, P6KE120C-E3/73 application, or P6KE120C-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bi-directional clamping behavior, 600 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), and UL 497B recognition for telecom and industrial protectors.
Technical Context
The P6KE120C-E3/73 operates as a bi-directional avalanche diode, symmetrically clamping voltage transients in both polarities without polarity marking. Its glass-passivated junction enables fast response (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for protecting sensitive inputs against ESD and surge events per IEC 61000-4-2/4-5.
It delivers 600 W peak pulse power under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform conditions at TA = 25 °C, with derating above 25 °C per Fig. 2. The device exhibits a temperature coefficient of +0.107 %/°C on VBR, ensuring predictable voltage shift across its -55 °C to +175 °C operating junction range.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 114 V / 126 V at IT = 1.0 mA - defines reliable avalanche initiation threshold in both directions |
| VWM | 102 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | ≤165 V at 165 A (10/1000 µs) - clamping voltage limiting stress on downstream components |
| PPPM | 600 W - peak transient energy absorption capability under standard surge waveform |
| IPPM | 165 A - maximum non-repetitive surge current the device safely clamps without failure |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - enables operation in high-temperature environments such as engine compartments |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - low junction-to-lead thermal resistance supports sustained power dissipation in PCB-constrained layouts |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. Matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. Bi-directional configuration - no polarity marking on body.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bi-directional avalanche junction terminals | No functional distinction - either lead serves as input/output for transient suppression in AC or bidirectional DC lines |
| Lead 1 / Lead 2 | External connection points | Both leads electrically identical; mounting orientation has no effect on clamping performance |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated chip junction | Enables <1 ns response time and stable long-term reliability under repeated surge stress |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge immunity in industrial power supply inputs |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive electronics applications including body control modules and sensor interfaces |
| UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2) | Meets safety requirements for telecom line protectors and industrial signal conditioning circuits |
| RoHS-compliant, matte tin plating | Ensures compatibility with lead-free reflow and wave soldering processes per JESD 201 Class 1A |
Applications
| Industrial Motor Drives | Automotive Sensor Interfaces |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protection of gate drivers and feedback sensing lines against inductive kickback from 24 V DC solenoids and relay coils. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed across motor driver output or sensor supply rail. Use Value: Limits transient excursions to ≤165 V, preventing latch-up or oxide breakdown in 3.3 V/5 V microcontrollers and analog front-ends. |
Use Scenario: Shielding LIN bus transceivers and pressure/temperature sensor outputs from battery dump and load-dump events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage protector on sensor VSUPPLY and signal lines, positioned upstream of ESD diodes. Use Value: Withstands 165 A surges while maintaining VC ≤165 V, preserving signal integrity during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) testing. |
| Telecom Line Cards | Power Supply Input Stages |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary protection on POTS line interface circuits after primary gas discharge tube (GDT) stage. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response secondary clamp absorbing residual energy not diverted by GDT. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response ensures clamping before GDT arc stabilization, reducing let-through voltage to <170 V per UL 497B requirements. |
Use Scenario: Input-stage surge suppression on 110/230 VAC rectified rails feeding offline SMPS controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across bulk capacitor to suppress differential-mode surges. Use Value: 600 W rating handles repetitive 10/1000 µs transients up to 0.01% duty cycle without thermal runaway. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120CA | Same VBR range (114–126 V), but SMC (DO-214AB) package - 1.5× smaller footprint, higher IPPM (171 A), lower RθJA (50 °C/W vs. 75 °C/W) | Better suited for space-constrained PCBs and higher-density layouts; requires rework of pad geometry | Select SMBJ120CA when board area is limited and thermal management via copper pour is feasible |
| 1.5KE120CA | Same DO-204AC package, but higher PPPM (1500 W), larger chip - VC = 193 V at 200 A, higher leakage (5.0 µA vs. 1.0 µA) | Used where higher single-event surge margin is required, e.g., outdoor telecom cabinets exposed to direct lightning coupling | Choose 1.5KE120CA only if system-level testing confirms need for >600 W rating; avoid where low clamping voltage is critical |
Compared with SMBJ120CA and 1.5KE120CA, the P6KE120C-E3/73 offers optimal balance of cost, proven field reliability in DO-15 through-hole assembly, and precise 165 V clamping - making it preferred for cost-sensitive industrial controls and legacy automotive designs requiring AEC-Q101 validation in axial form factor.
Availability
P6KE120C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor drives, automotive sensor interfaces, telecom line cards, and power supply input stages requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE120C-E3/73 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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P6KE series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in commercial and automotive-grade applications where fast response and repeatable clamping are essential.
FAQ
What does the "C" suffix in P6KE120C-E3/73 indicate?
The "C" suffix denotes bi-directional functionality - meaning the P6KE120C-E3/73 clamps voltage transients equally in both polarities, with no cathode marking on the DO-204AC body. This distinguishes it from uni-directional variants like P6KE120A-E3/73, which feature a band-marked cathode and conduct only in reverse bias. The P6KE120C-E3/73 is specified for symmetric clamping across AC-coupled or floating signal lines.
Is P6KE120C-E3/73 AEC-Q101 qualified?
Yes, P6KE120C-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified when ordered with the HE3 suffix (e.g., P6KE120C-HE3/73). The standard P6KE120C-E3/73 variant is RoHS-compliant and commercial-grade; however, the HE3 version undergoes additional stress testing per AEC-Q101 for automotive under-hood and chassis applications. Always verify ordering code suffixes to confirm qualification status for your design.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P6KE120C-E3/73 under surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of P6KE120C-E3/73 is 165 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 165 A using the 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed per the Vishay datasheet (Doc. #88369, Rev. 18-Sep-12) and represents the upper limit of voltage seen by protected circuitry during worst-case transient events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Can P6KE120C-E3/73 be used in AC line protection?
Yes, P6KE120C-E3/73 is suitable for AC line protection in low-voltage auxiliary circuits (e.g., 24 VAC control lines, telecom ringers, or SELV secondary-side inputs), but not for direct 120/230 VAC mains connection due to its 102 V stand-off voltage (VWM). For mains-rated protection, use higher-VWM variants or cascade with GDTs. The P6KE120C-E3/73 excels in clamping fast-rising transients on isolated AC paths where VWM > RMS × √2 is maintained.
How does thermal resistance affect P6KE120C-E3/73 performance in high-density layouts?
P6KE120C-E3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W, meaning each watt dissipated raises junction temperature by ~20 °C above lead temperature. In high-density layouts with limited copper area, this necessitates careful lead length control (<9.5 mm) and thermal relief pad design to prevent exceeding the 175 °C max junction temperature during repetitive surges. Derating curves (Fig. 2) must be applied when ambient exceeds 25 °C.
P6KE120C-E3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 97.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 108V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 173V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 3.5A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- 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-204AC (DO-15)
P6KE120C-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE120C-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE120C-E3/73 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 P6KE120C-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE120C-E3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE120C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE120C-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE120C-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE120C-E3/73?
P6KE120C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE120C-E3/73 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 P6KE120C-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE120C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE120C-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE120C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE120C-E3/73 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 P6KE120C-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE120C-E3/73?
All P6KE120C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE120C-E3/73, 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 P6KE120C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE120C-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE120C-E3/73 Tags
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