Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE120HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE120HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE120HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 97.2VWM 173VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,728
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Product details
Overview
P6KE120HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a uni-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-204AC (DO-15) package, designed for primary overvoltage protection of DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 102 V stand-off 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 - used to safeguard MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces against lightning-induced surges and inductive switching transients.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE120HE3/73 datasheet, P6KE120HE3/73 pinout, P6KE120HE3/73 application, or P6KE120HE3/73 equivalent, this AEC-Q101 qualified TVS offers validated surge robustness for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom power supply front-ends where reliability under repetitive transient stress is critical.
Technical Context
The P6KE120HE3/73 operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, enabling sub-nanosecond response to voltage transients. Its uni-directional polarity uses a cathode band marking and exhibits low incremental surge resistance (< 46 Ω derived from VC/IPPM), ensuring effective clamping during 8.3 ms half-sine or 10/1000 µs surges.
Thermally, it supports operation from –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature, with 20 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance and 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient rating. The device is rated for 100 A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM) and dissipates up to 5.0 W continuously on an infinite heatsink at TL = 75 °C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 102 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before significant leakage; sets safe operating margin below breakdown. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 114–126 V at 1 mA - Confirmed avalanche initiation range; ensures predictable turn-on during overvoltage events. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 165 V at 3.6 A (10/1000 µs) - Peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; defines protection level. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 600 W - Sustains single high-energy transients without failure; validated per IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4. |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 3.6 A - Maximum surge current handled at rated clamping voltage; determines minimum series impedance needed. |
| TJmax | +175 °C - Enables use in under-hood automotive environments and high-temperature industrial enclosures. |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Yes - Validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD testing per JESD47. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. Matte tin-plated leads, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Cathode indicated by color band.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., GND or return path); conducts during positive transients when cathode is biased higher. |
| Cathode | Avalanche clamping terminal | Marked end; connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); clamps reverse transients by avalanching above VBR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated chip junction | Enables stable, repeatable avalanche characteristics and long-term reliability under thermal cycling. |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 combination wave surges up to ±1 kV (500 Ω source) without degradation. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including body control modules and infotainment power supplies. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.39) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream components compared to higher-ratio TVS devices. |
| RoHS-compliant, HE3 suffix | Meets JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance and automotive material compliance requirements. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Electronics | Industrial PLC Digital I/O |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting LIN bus transceivers and door module microcontrollers from load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp on 12 V supply rail upstream of LDO regulators. Use Value: Limits transient excursions to ≤165 V, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 3.3 V/5 V logic ICs. |
Use Scenario: Shielding 24 V digital input channels from relay coil flyback and ESD events in factory automation controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt protector placed directly at connector entry point. Use Value: Responds in <1 ns to suppress >1 kV spikes before they propagate into optocoupler input stages. |
| Telecom Power Supply Input | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding AC-DC adapter primary-side rectifier and controller ICs against lightning-induced surges on mains input. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level transient suppressor after MOV, handling residual fast-edge energy. Use Value: Clamps residual 600 V transients to 165 V within 10/1000 µs, reducing stress on bulk capacitor and PWM controller. |
Use Scenario: Protecting BLDC motor driver FET gates from inductive kickback during commutation in smart HVAC systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Uni-directional clamp across gate-source terminals of N-channel MOSFETs. Use Value: Prevents gate oxide rupture by limiting VGS to ≤165 V during 3.6 A surge events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ120A-E3/52 (Vishay) | Same VWM/VBR/VC specs but in SMB (DO-214AA) surface-mount package; 600 W rating retained. | Requires PCB re-layout for SMD placement; better suited for high-density automated assembly. | Select when board space is constrained and reflow compatibility is required over through-hole mounting. |
| 1.5KE120A (Littelfuse) | Identical DO-204AC package and electrical ratings (VWM = 102 V, VC = 165 V), but not AEC-Q101 qualified. | Limited to commercial/industrial use; unsuitable for automotive production without additional qualification. | Choose for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where AEC-Q101 is not mandated. |
Compared with SMBJ120A-E3/52 and 1.5KE120A, the P6KE120HE3/73 uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, axial-leaded DO-15 form factor, and verified 175 °C operation - making it the only option among the three qualified for under-hood automotive deployment without derating.
Availability
P6KE120HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control units, industrial programmable logic controller I/O modules, and telecom power supply inputs requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for P6KE120HE3/73 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 TVS devices with emphasis on reliability, power handling, and automotive-grade validation.
The P6KE series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered specifically for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in space-constrained DC power and signal line applications.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE120HE3/73 under standard test conditions?
The P6KE120HE3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 165 V when subjected to a 10/1000 µs waveform at its rated peak pulse current of 3.6 A. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - a critical parameter for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Is the P6KE120HE3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE120HE3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive use. Its construction includes JESD 201 Class 2 whisker-resistant matte tin plating, operation up to +175 °C junction temperature, and validation across temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and ESD tests - confirming suitability for body electronics, lighting control, and infotainment power domains.
How does the HE3 suffix differ from the E3 suffix in the P6KE120HE3/73 part number?
The HE3 suffix in P6KE120HE3/73 indicates RoHS compliance plus AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance. In contrast, the E3 suffix denotes RoHS compliance and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance but no AEC-Q101 validation. Thus, P6KE120HE3/73 is the only version approved for automotive production without additional component-level qualification.
What is the stand-off voltage (VWM) of the P6KE120HE3/73, and why is it important?
The P6KE120HE3/73 has a stand-off voltage (VWM) of 102 V - the maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device can block without significant leakage current (<1 µA). This parameter ensures reliable operation under normal conditions while maintaining sufficient margin below the 114–126 V breakdown range, preventing false triggering during nominal supply fluctuations or ripple.
Can the P6KE120HE3/73 be used in bi-directional configurations?
No, the P6KE120HE3/73 is a uni-directional TVS diode, identifiable by its cathode band marking. Bi-directional variants in the same family use the "CA" suffix (e.g., P6KE120CA). Using P6KE120HE3/73 in bi-directional applications would leave positive-going transients unclamped; correct selection requires matching polarity to circuit topology and transient directionality.
P6KE120HE3/73 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:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
P6KE120HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE120HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE120HE3/73 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 P6KE120HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE120HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE120HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE120HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE120HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE120HE3/73?
P6KE120HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE120HE3/73 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 P6KE120HE3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE120HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE120HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE120HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE120HE3/73 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 P6KE120HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE120HE3/73?
All P6KE120HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE120HE3/73, 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 P6KE120HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE120HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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