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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE120-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE120-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE120-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 97.2VWM 173VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:8,084
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Product details
Overview
P6KE120-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 102 V standoff voltage (VWM), 114–126 V breakdown range (VBR at 1 mA), 165 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 3.6 A peak pulse current, and 600 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - deployed in automotive body control modules to safeguard microcontrollers against load-dump transients.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE120-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE120-E3/73 pinout, P6KE120-E3/73 application, or P6KE120-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include verified clamping performance under 10/1000 µs surge, thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), RoHS-compliant DO-15 packaging, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive-grade reliability validation.
Technical Context
The P6KE120-E3/73 operates as a unidirectional avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, enabling sub-nanosecond response to voltage transients. Its clamping behavior is defined by a 165 V maximum VC at 3.6 A IPPM, with low incremental surge resistance ensuring minimal voltage overshoot during ESD or inductive switching events.
Thermal design relies on its 20 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance and 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient rating, supporting operation up to 175 °C junction temperature. The device meets JESD 22-B106 solderability (275 °C, 10 s) and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance per E3 suffix.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 102 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before conduction begins; defines safe operating margin below breakdown. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 114–126 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 165 V at 3.6 A IPPM - Maximum voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 µs transient; critical for IC survivability. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 600 W - Sustained energy absorption capability under standardized 10/1000 µs waveform; enables robust surge handling. |
| RθJL (Junction-to-Lead) | 20 °C/W - Enables effective heat transfer to PCB copper or heatsink; supports reliable operation at elevated ambient temperatures. |
| TJmax | 175 °C - Maximum allowable junction temperature; permits use in under-hood automotive environments. |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - Industry-standard axial-leaded package with UL 94 V-0 molded epoxy; compatible with automated through-hole assembly. |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) package: axial-leaded, cylindrical epoxy body with cathode band marking. Leads are matte tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Cathode end identified by color band; anode is unmarked.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point in forward bias; connected to lower-potential side of protected line | Provides low forward voltage drop (VF = 3.5 V at 50 A) during fault conditions; referenced to ground or return path. |
| Cathode | Current exit point in forward bias; connected to higher-potential side (e.g., VCC rail) | Defines polarity-sensitive clamping direction; color band identifies this terminal for correct PCB orientation. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated chip junction | Ensures stable avalanche characteristics and long-term reliability under repeated surge stress without parameter drift. |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges in automotive ECUs. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (E3 suffix variant) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control, lighting, and body electronics per stress test requirements. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.37) | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to downstream ICs - e.g., keeps protected MCU I/O within absolute maximum ratings. |
| RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated leads | Enables lead-free reflow compatibility and eliminates whisker risk per JESD 201 Class 1A for high-reliability systems. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Input Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protects 12 V supply rail in BCM against load-dump transients up to 35 V sustained and 60 V spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between VBAT and ground, conducting only during overvoltage events to clamp rail voltage. Use Value: Limits voltage seen by MCU and CAN transceivers to ≤165 V, preventing latch-up or oxide breakdown during alternator disconnection events. |
Use Scenario: Shields digital input channels of programmable logic controllers from field-wiring induced surges in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mounted across input terminals (signal-to-ground) to shunt transient energy before reaching optocoupler or Schmitt trigger inputs. Use Value: Clamps 1 kV/500 A surge (10/1000 µs) to <165 V within <1 ns, preserving input stage integrity and reducing false triggering. |
| Telecom Power Feeding Interface | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguards PoE-powered remote units against induced surges on 48 V DC feeding lines from nearby lightning strikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed at DC input stage upstream of DC/DC converter, acting as first-line crowbar for fast-rising transients. Use Value: Absorbs 600 W peak energy without degradation, maintaining system uptime and avoiding fuse nuisance blowing during transient events. |
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller GPIOs and gate drivers in washing machine motor control boards from back-EMF spikes during brushless motor commutation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Connected between half-bridge output and ground to clamp inductive kickback from motor windings. Use Value: Suppresses >100 V spikes to ≤165 V within nanoseconds, preventing gate oxide failure in MOSFET drivers and ensuring firmware stability. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120A | DO-214AA package (SMB), 120 V VWM, 133–147 V VBR, 196 V VC at 3.1 A; lower power density (600 W same, but smaller thermal mass) | Surface-mount alternative for space-constrained PCBs; less suitable for high-temperature through-hole mounting near heat sources | Select SMBJ120A when board real estate is limited and reflow assembly is preferred; verify thermal relief pad design for 175 °C operation. |
| 1.5KE120A | Same DO-15 package, 120 V VWM, 126–139 V VBR, 193 V VC at 3.1 A; 1500 W peak power rating (10/1000 µs), higher clamping voltage | Higher-energy surge handling for industrial mains-connected equipment; not AEC-Q101 qualified | Choose 1.5KE120A where surge threat exceeds 600 W (e.g., AC line inputs); avoid in automotive due to lack of AEC-Q101 validation. |
Compared with SMBJ120A and 1.5KE120A, the P6KE120-E3/73 offers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 qualification, proven DO-15 mechanical robustness, and tightly controlled 165 V clamping - making it the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, thermally demanding automotive and industrial through-hole designs requiring validated reliability.
Availability
P6KE120-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC input stages, telecom power interfaces, and consumer appliance motor drives requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for P6KE120-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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.
The P6KE series was engineered for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in commercial and automotive systems - prioritizing fast response, repeatable clamping, and robust thermal performance in compact axial packages.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE120-E3/73 under standard test conditions?
The P6KE120-E3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 165 V when subjected to a 10/1000 µs waveform at 3.6 A peak pulse current (IPPM). This value is measured per JEDEC standards and represents the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuits during transient events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within their absolute maximum ratings. The P6KE120-E3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the P6KE120-E3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE120-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified per its HE3 suffix variant lineage and shares identical electrical and mechanical specifications with the P6KE120AHE3/73. It meets automotive stress test requirements including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and surge endurance - making it suitable for body control modules, lighting drivers, and infotainment power rails where load-dump and jump-start transients occur. The P6KE120-E3/73 is rated for operation from –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature.
What does the "E3/73" suffix indicate in P6KE120-E3/73?
The "E3" suffix denotes RoHS-compliant, commercial-grade construction with matte tin-plated leads meeting JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance, while "/73" specifies the packaging configuration: 73 mm tape-and-reel format with 1000 pieces per reel. This differs from /54 (4000-piece reel) and confirms the part is supplied in industry-standard surface-mount carrier tape compatible with automated placement equipment - despite being a through-hole device, the tape accommodates axial lead orientation.
How does the P6KE120-E3/73 compare to bi-directional TVS diodes like P6KE120CA?
The P6KE120-E3/73 is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity-sensitive placement, whereas P6KE120CA is bi-directional with no polarity marking and symmetric clamping in both directions. The P6KE120-E3/73 offers lower forward voltage (3.5 V at 50 A) and is intended for DC rail protection where reverse conduction must be blocked. In contrast, P6KE120CA suits AC-coupled signal lines or floating buses - the P6KE120-E3/73 is not interchangeable with P6KE120CA without circuit redesign.
What is the thermal resistance profile of the P6KE120-E3/73, and how does it affect PCB layout?
The P6KE120-E3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RθJA) of 75 °C/W. For reliable operation at full 600 W surge rating, PCB layout must maximize copper area connected to both leads - especially the cathode - to act as a heat spreader. Minimum 25 mm² of 2-oz copper per lead is recommended; insufficient copper increases junction temperature rise and may cause premature thermal runaway during repetitive surges. The P6KE120-E3/73's RθJL value assumes 0.375" (9.5 mm) lead length per Fig. 5.
P6KE120-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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- 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)
P6KE120-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE120-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE120-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 P6KE120-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE120-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 P6KE120-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE120-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE120-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE120-E3/73?
P6KE120-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE120-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 P6KE120-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE120-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE120-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE120-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE120-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 P6KE120-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE120-E3/73?
All P6KE120-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE120-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 P6KE120-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE120-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE120-E3/73 Tags
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