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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE12A-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE12A-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE12A-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 10.2VWM 16.7VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:5,865
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Product details
Overview
P6KE12A-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in DO-15 package, designed for primary overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics. It features 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs), 12.6 V maximum breakdown voltage at 1 mA, 16.7 V maximum clamping voltage at 35.9 A peak pulse current, and 10.2 V stand-off voltage - deployed across DC power rails and signal lines in automotive body control modules.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE12A-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE12A-E3/73 pinout, P6KE12A-E3/73 application, or P6KE12A-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin relative to protected IC VDD, IPPM capability under system-level surge stress (IEC 61000-4-5), thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), and RoHS-compliant matte tin-plated leads per J-STD-002.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS operates as a voltage-clamped shunt device: when reverse voltage exceeds VBR (11.4–12.6 V), it avalanches into low-impedance conduction to divert transient energy away from downstream circuitry. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response time (<1 ns), critical for suppressing ESD and inductive switching spikes.
Thermal performance is defined by RθJL = 20 °C/W and RθJA = 75 °C/W, enabling reliable operation up to TJ = 175 °C. The device sustains 100 A non-repetitive forward surge (8.3 ms half-sine) and exhibits 0.078 %/°C temperature coefficient of VBR, ensuring predictable clamping behavior across automotive ambient ranges.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 11.4 V / 12.6 V at IT = 1 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for accurate overvoltage triggering |
| VWM | 10.2 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage; must exceed system nominal rail (e.g., 9–10 V automotive battery) |
| VC @ IPPM | 16.7 V at 35.9 A - clamping voltage during 600 W transient; determines maximum stress on protected IC input/output |
| PPPM | 600 W (10/1000 μs waveform) - quantifies surge energy handling capacity for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3/4 compliance |
| IFSM | 100 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - supports robust protection against load-dump transients in 12 V vehicle systems |
| TJ max. | 175 °C - enables placement near heat-generating components without derating concerns in engine bay applications |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - low junction-to-lead thermal resistance allows efficient heat transfer to PCB copper pour or heatsinked traces |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-15 (DO-204AC), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 rating. Cathode indicated by color band on one end; anode is unmarked lead.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unbanded lead) | Current entry point during forward conduction | Used only during positive transients on cathode-grounded configurations; VF = 3.5 V at 50 A ensures low forward loss |
| Cathode (banded lead) | Transient current sink during reverse avalanche | Connected to protected line; clamps to ≤16.7 V when voltage exceeds 11.4 V, diverting surge to ground |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated chip junction | Ensures stable, repeatable breakdown voltage with minimal drift over 1000+ surge events |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Validated for IEC 61000-4-5 4 kV/2 Ω surge testing in automotive sub-systems |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 variant); E3 is commercial grade | P6KE12A-E3/73 meets JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance and solderability per J-STD-002 |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Enables tight clamping (VC/IPPM = 0.466 Ω) to minimize voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients |
| Fast response time (<1 ns) | Responds before MOSFET gate oxide breakdown occurs during ESD events (HBM > 8 kV) |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller GPIOs and LIN bus transceivers from load-dump and jump-start surges in 12 V vehicle networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional shunt clamp on 5 V or 3.3 V supply rails and signal lines, triggered within nanoseconds of overvoltage onset. Use Value: Limits voltage to ≤16.7 V during 35.9 A transients, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to MCU I/O cells rated for 6 V absolute maximum. |
Use Scenario: Shields 24 V digital input optocouplers from inductive kickback generated by solenoid valve switching. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage suppressor placed upstream of series current-limiting resistor and opto-LED. Use Value: Clamps 10/1000 μs surges to 16.7 V while dissipating 600 W, eliminating need for secondary Zener or MOV stages. |
| Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Board | Telecom Power Supply Front-End |
Use Scenario: Guards MCU reset line and UART pins against ESD and relay contact bounce in washing machine control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting unidirectional clamp referenced to local ground, with cathode tied to protected signal. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response prevents false resets or data corruption during 8 kV HBM ESD events on exposed connectors. |
Use Scenario: Suppresses lightning-induced surges on -48 V telecom DC feed lines entering remote radio units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary protection stage after gas discharge tube (GDT), providing low-clamp precision after GDT arc extinction. Use Value: 16.7 V clamping at 35.9 A ensures downstream DC/DC converter input remains below its 20 V absolute max rating. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ12A | DO-214AA package; 600 W rating; VBR = 13.3–14.7 V; VC = 19.9 V @ 30.1 A | Surface-mount footprint; higher clamping voltage reduces margin for 12 V rail protection | Select SMBJ12A only when board space constraints prohibit axial DO-15 mounting or when automated SMT assembly is required. |
| 1.5KE12A | DO-201AD package; 1500 W rating; VBR = 11.4–12.6 V; VC = 19.0 V @ 79.0 A | Larger package; higher power but looser clamping compromises protection of low-voltage ICs | Choose 1.5KE12A where system-level surge tests exceed 600 W (e.g., ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and layout permits larger leaded device. |
Compared with SMBJ12A and 1.5KE12A, P6KE12A-E3/73 delivers tighter clamping (16.7 V vs. ≥19.0 V) in a compact DO-15 form factor, making it optimal for cost-sensitive 12 V rail protection where voltage margin is critical and surge energy is ≤600 W.
Availability
P6KE12A-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC input stages, consumer appliance motor controls, and telecom power front-ends requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE12A-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, power efficiency, and AEC-Q qualification.
The P6KE series targets cost-effective, high-surge-capability transient protection for commercial and automotive applications where DO-15 axial packaging, rapid response, and precise clamping are essential design requirements.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE12A-E3/73 under standard test conditions?
The P6KE12A-E3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 16.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 35.9 A using a 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured at TA = 25 °C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during transient events. The P6KE12A-E3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its specified operating temperature range, with minor increases due to thermal effects at elevated junction temperatures.
Is the P6KE12A-E3/73 suitable for automotive applications requiring AEC-Q101 qualification?
No - the P6KE12A-E3/73 carries the E3 suffix, indicating RoHS-compliant commercial-grade construction. For AEC-Q101 qualification, the correct variant is P6KE12AHE3/73 (HE3 suffix), which undergoes additional stress testing including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and accelerated life validation. The P6KE12A-E3/73 itself is not AEC-Q101 certified and should not be used in safety-critical automotive subsystems without further validation.
How does the P6KE12A-E3/73 compare to bidirectional TVS diodes like P6KE12CA?
The P6KE12A-E3/73 is unidirectional and intended for DC circuits with defined polarity, such as 12 V power rails grounded at one end. In contrast, P6KE12CA is bidirectional and suited for AC signal lines or floating buses where voltage transients may swing positive or negative. The P6KE12A-E3/73 offers lower leakage at VWM (5.0 μA vs. 10 μA for P6KE12CA) and slightly tighter VBR tolerance, but cannot protect symmetrical waveforms. Selecting P6KE12A-E3/73 over P6KE12CA requires confirmed unidirectional system topology.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) for the P6KE12A-E3/73, and why does it matter?
The P6KE12A-E3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W. This parameter directly impacts how effectively heat generated during surge events transfers from the silicon die to the PCB copper or external heatsinking. A lower RθJL enables higher duty-cycle operation and improves reliability under repetitive transients. When designing layouts for the P6KE12A-E3/73, maximizing copper area connected to both leads reduces effective thermal resistance and prevents localized overheating that could degrade clamping consistency.
Can the P6KE12A-E3/73 be used to protect 3.3 V logic interfaces?
No - the P6KE12A-E3/73 is unsuitable for direct 3.3 V logic protection because its stand-off voltage (VWM = 10.2 V) exceeds typical 3.3 V rail tolerances, and its clamping voltage (16.7 V) would destroy 3.3 V-rated ICs. For 3.3 V interfaces, use lower-voltage TVS devices such as SMAJ3.3A (VWM = 3.3 V, VC = 9.2 V). The P6KE12A-E3/73 is engineered for 12 V systems; applying it to 3.3 V circuits violates its voltage rating envelope and risks catastrophic failure.
P6KE12A-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:
- 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-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE12A-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE12A-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 P6KE12A-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE12A-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 P6KE12A-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE12A-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE12A-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE12A-E3/73?
P6KE12A-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE12A-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 P6KE12A-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE12A-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE12A-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE12A-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE12A-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 P6KE12A-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE12A-E3/73?
All P6KE12A-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE12A-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 P6KE12A-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE12A-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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