Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE12A-E3/54
- Part No.:
- P6KE12A-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE12A-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:453
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Product details
Overview
P6KE12A-E3/54 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 12 V breakdown voltage (VBR = 11.4–12.6 V at 1.0 mA), 16.7 V maximum clamping voltage at 35.9 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 inductive switching transients in automotive and industrial control modules.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE12A-E3/54 datasheet, P6KE12A-E3/54 pinout, P6KE12A-E3/54 application, or P6KE12A-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include its DO-15 package compatibility, unidirectional polarity with cathode band marking, 10.2 V stand-off voltage, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive-grade reliability validation.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 MΩ at 10.2 V), then rapidly avalanches below 12.6 V to limit transient energy. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and low temperature coefficient (0.078 %/°C), enabling predictable clamping across -55 °C to +175 °C operating range.
It delivers 600 W surge handling per IEC 61000-4-5-compliant 10/1000 µs waveform at 0.01% duty cycle, with 35.9 A peak pulse current and 16.7 V clamping voltage - directly limiting induced surges before they reach downstream logic or power stages. Thermal resistance of 20 °C/W (junction-to-lead) supports reliable power dissipation in constrained PCB layouts.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 11.4 V / 12.6 V at 1.0 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for repeatable clamping onset |
| VWM | 10.2 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage; ensures no leakage conduction during normal operation |
| VC @ IPPM | 16.7 V at 35.9 A - maximum clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case 600 W transient |
| IPPM | 35.9 A - peak surge current capability with 10/1000 µs waveform; determines minimum fuse coordination margin |
| PPPM | 600 W - standardized surge power rating enabling direct comparison with IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 requirements |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - enables use in under-hood automotive environments and high-temperature industrial enclosures |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - low thermal resistance allows efficient heat transfer to PCB copper or heatsinked leads |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-15 (DO-204AC), axial-leaded, epoxy-molded case with matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. Cathode identified by color band on body end.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side connection point | Connected to ground or return path; completes clamping loop when transient exceeds VBR |
| Cathode | High-side connection point | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); color band denotes this terminal for correct orientation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5%) and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Meets IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity without external derating in standard PCB layouts |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (E3 suffix variant) | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics requiring zero-failure field performance |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.37) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream components compared to MOVs or polymer-based suppressors |
| Fast response time (<1 ns) | Clamps transients before propagation into sensitive analog or digital circuitry, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V supply inputs of ECUs and lighting controllers from load-dump and jump-start transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt TVS placed between VIN and GND to clamp surges above 12.6 V before reaching LDOs or microcontrollers. Use Value: Limits clamped voltage to 16.7 V at 35.9 A, ensuring downstream regulators remain within absolute maximum ratings during ISO 16750-2 pulse 5a events. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog outputs of pressure/temperature sensors connected to PLC analog input cards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS installed on each sensor output line to suppress ESD and inductive kickback from solenoid drivers. Use Value: 10.2 V stand-off voltage prevents interference with 0–10 V sensor signals while clamping fast transients before ADC front-end damage occurs. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input Stage | Telecom Line Card Surge Protection |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side DC bus protection in wall adapters subjected to mains-borne surges and capacitor discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping element on +5 V or +12 V output rail, upstream of USB-PD controller or linear regulator. Use Value: 600 W rating handles repetitive 10/1000 µs surges without degradation; RoHS-compliant E3 finish ensures compliance with global environmental regulations. |
Use Scenario: Overvoltage suppression on Ethernet PHY power pins and auxiliary bias rails in network switches and base station line cards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff-rated TVS placed on isolated 3.3 V or 5 V bias supplies feeding Gigabit Ethernet magnetics and PHY ICs. Use Value: 175 °C max junction temperature supports operation in sealed telecom enclosures with limited airflow and elevated ambient temperatures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12A | Same VBR (11.4–12.6 V), but SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package; 600 W rating retained | Requires rework of PCB layout for SMD placement; better suited for automated assembly and higher-density designs | Select SMBJ12A when board space is constrained and reflow-compatible mounting is preferred over through-hole DO-15. |
| 1N6267A | Legacy 1.5KE series; identical DO-15 package, but 1.5 kW rating and higher VC (21.2 V at 71 A) | Higher clamping voltage reduces system-level protection margin; suitable only where lower-cost legacy sourcing is prioritized | Choose 1N6267A only if existing design uses 1.5KE family and no redesign is permitted; P6KE12A-E3/54 offers tighter VBR tolerance and lower VC. |
Compared with SMBJ12A and 1N6267A, P6KE12A-E3/54 provides optimal balance of through-hole manufacturability, precise 12 V clamping, and AEC-Q101 qualification - making it the preferred choice for new automotive and industrial designs requiring validated reliability and consistent surge response.
Availability
P6KE12A-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial sensor interfaces, and telecom power rail protection requiring stable component supply with traceable sourcing and lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for P6KE12A-E3/54 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 reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P6KE series targets cost-sensitive, high-volume transient suppression needs in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics - delivering robust 600 W surge handling in the proven DO-15 platform with AEC-Q101 validation for mission-critical systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE12A-E3/54 under rated surge conditions?
The P6KE12A-E3/54 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 16.7 V when subjected to its rated 35.9 A peak pulse current (IPPM) using the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per Vishay's test conditions in Document Number 88369 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during worst-case transient events. The P6KE12A-E3/54 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the P6KE12A-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE12A-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified per Vishay documentation (Document Number 88369, Note 1), confirming its suitability for automotive electronics including engine control units, body control modules, and lighting systems. Its DO-15 package, 175 °C maximum junction temperature, and stable clamping behavior under thermal cycling make the P6KE12A-E3/54 appropriate for under-hood and cabin-mounted applications requiring certified reliability.
How does the P6KE12A-E3/54 differ from bidirectional TVS diodes like P6KE12CA?
The P6KE12A-E3/54 is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity-sensitive placement on positive DC rails, whereas P6KE12CA is bidirectional and lacks polarity marking. The P6KE12A-E3/54 has a forward voltage drop (~3.5 V at 50 A), while P6KE12CA conducts symmetrically in both directions. Use the P6KE12A-E3/54 for DC power line protection where polarity is fixed; choose P6KE12CA only for AC-coupled or floating signal line protection.
What is the standoff voltage rating of the P6KE12A-E3/54, and why is it important?
The P6KE12A-E3/54 has a maximum steady-state reverse standoff voltage (VWM) of 10.2 V, meaning it remains non-conductive up to this voltage during normal operation. This parameter ensures no leakage current flows into the TVS during nominal 12 V system operation, preserving signal integrity and power efficiency. Exceeding VWM risks premature conduction, so the P6KE12A-E3/54 is selected specifically for circuits where operating voltage stays safely below 10.2 V with margin.
Does the P6KE12A-E3/54 require a heatsink for standard operation?
No, the P6KE12A-E3/54 does not require an external heatsink for single-event surge suppression, as its 600 W peak rating is defined for short-duration pulses (≤50 ms) with 0.01% duty cycle. Its 20 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance allows adequate self-cooling via PCB copper and lead conduction. However, for repetitive surge conditions exceeding datasheet derating curves (Fig. 2), thermal management via copper pour or lead length optimization is recommended to maintain P6KE12A-E3/54 reliability.
P6KE12A-E3/54 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 10.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 11.4V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 16.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 35.9A
- 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)
P6KE12A-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE12A-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE12A-E3/54 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 P6KE12A-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE12A-E3/54 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE12A-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE12A-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE12A-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE12A-E3/54?
P6KE12A-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE12A-E3/54 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 P6KE12A-E3/54?
For technical support, including P6KE12A-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE12A-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE12A-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE12A-E3/54 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 P6KE12A-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE12A-E3/54?
All P6KE12A-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE12A-E3/54, 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 P6KE12A-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE12A-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE12A-E3/54 Tags

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