Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE170C-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE170C-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE170C-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 138VWM 244VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P6KE170C-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection on signal and power lines. It features a 170 V breakdown voltage (VBR min = 162 V, max = 179 V), 145 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 234 V clamping voltage at 2.6 A peak pulse current (IPPM), and 600 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - deployed in automotive sensor interfaces and industrial I/O protection circuits.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE170C-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE170C-E3/73 pinout, P6KE170C-E3/73 application, or P6KE170C-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its bi-directional polarity, DO-204AC (DO-15) package, AEC-Q101 qualification, low 0.108 %/°C temperature coefficient of VBR, and suitability for inductive load switching transients in harsh environments.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 MΩ at VWM), but triggers into low-impedance conduction when transient voltage exceeds VBR. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and fast response (<1 ns), critical for protecting MOSFET gates and microcontroller I/O pins against ESD and lightning-induced surges.
The bi-directional configuration enables symmetric clamping in AC-coupled or floating signal paths without polarity constraints. Thermal resistance is characterized at RθJL = 20 °C/W (junction-to-lead), supporting reliable power dissipation up to 5.0 W on infinite heatsink at TL = 75 °C - validated per JESD 22-B106 solderability and JESD 201 class 1A whisker testing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 162 V / 179 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise voltage threshold for reliable clamping onset across temperature and unit variation |
| VWM | 145 V - maximum continuous working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 µA, ensuring no false triggering in nominal operation |
| VC @ IPPM | 234 V at 2.6 A (10/1000 µs) - limits protected circuit voltage during worst-case surge, enabling downstream component survival |
| PPPM | 600 W - peak transient energy absorption capacity, sufficient for automotive load-dump and industrial relay-coil flyback events |
| TJ max | +175 °C - extended junction temperature rating supports under-hood and high-ambient industrial deployments |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - industry-standard axial-leaded package with UL 94 V-0 molded epoxy, compatible with through-hole assembly |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified - validated for automotive-grade reliability including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD robustness per stress test plan |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) package: axial-leaded, cylindrical epoxy body, matte tin-plated leads. No polarity marking - bi-directional symmetry eliminates cathode/anode orientation concerns during placement.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient current path | Bi-directional conduction allows identical clamping behavior regardless of voltage polarity - simplifies layout on differential or AC lines |
| Lead 1 | Junction-to-lead thermal path | Primary heat dissipation route; RθJL = 20 °C/W enables effective thermal management via PCB copper pour or heatsink contact |
| Lead 2 | Current return path | Completes low-inductance surge path to ground or rail; lead length ≤ 9.5 mm specified for rated IFSM performance |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and long-term parameter drift <1 % over 1000 hrs at TJ = 125 °C |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands repetitive 0.01 % duty cycle surges - suitable for motor drive feedback lines subject to frequent commutation spikes |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.45) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on protected ICs; e.g., keeps 3.3 V MCU I/O below 5 V absolute max during 1 kV EFT burst |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validates operation across -55 °C to +175 °C, 1000-cycle temperature cycling, and 78 kV/m HBM ESD - required for automotive body control modules |
| RoHS-compliant, matte tin plating | Meets J-STD-002 solderability and JESD 201 class 1A whisker resistance - ensures reliability in lead-free reflow and long-life applications |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC Analog Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN bus transceivers and Hall-effect sensor outputs from load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulse 5a transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt clamping element placed between signal line and chassis ground, triggered within <1 ns to limit voltage excursion. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping transients to ≤234 V while preserving 145 V DC operating margin - prevents latch-up in 5 V sensor supply rails. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 4–20 mA current loop inputs in programmable logic controllers exposed to field wiring surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp across input terminals, absorbing ±1 kV/500 A transients per IEC 61000-4-5. Use Value: Enables compliance with industrial immunity standards without adding series impedance or signal distortion - preserves loop accuracy and zero-point stability. |
| Consumer Appliance Motor Control | Telecom Power Supply Input |
Use Scenario: Suppressing flyback voltage spikes from brushed DC motors in washing machines and HVAC blowers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS across motor terminals, conducting only during inductive kick events. Use Value: Eliminates need for snubber RC networks - reduces BOM count and PCB area while maintaining 600 W surge handling at 125 °C ambient. |
Use Scenario: Primary-side overvoltage protection on AC-DC adapter inputs subjected to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense upstream of bridge rectifier, clamping common-mode transients before rectification. Use Value: Withstands 10/1000 µs surges up to 600 W without degradation - extends power supply MTBF in outdoor telecom cabinets. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ170CA | Same VBR range (162–179 V), but SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package; 600 W rating, lower RθJA (50 °C/W vs. 75 °C/W) | Requires PCB redesign for SMT assembly; better suited for space-constrained designs with automated placement | Select SMBJ170CA when board real estate is limited and thermal vias can be implemented for enhanced cooling |
| 1.5KE170CA | Higher peak pulse power (1500 W), same DO-204AC package; larger chip die, higher IPPM (5.2 A vs. 2.6 A), VC = 274 V | Over-spec'd for most 600 W use cases; introduces higher clamping voltage and greater thermal mass | Choose 1.5KE170CA only when legacy systems require backward-compatible footprint with headroom for future surge severity increases |
Compared with SMBJ170CA and 1.5KE170CA, P6KE170C-E3/73 delivers optimal cost-performance balance for through-hole automotive and industrial applications where AEC-Q101 validation, proven DO-15 reliability, and precise 234 V clamping are prioritized over ultra-high power or miniaturization.
Availability
P6KE170C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor protection, industrial PLC analog inputs, consumer appliance motor drives, and telecom power supply inputs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for P6KE170C-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, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P6KE series was engineered for cost-effective, high-surge-capability transient protection in commercial and automotive environments - balancing robustness, standardization, and manufacturability in axial-leaded form factors.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage tolerance for P6KE170C-E3/73?
The P6KE170C-E3/73 has a guaranteed breakdown voltage range of 162 V to 179 V at 1.0 mA test current, corresponding to a ±5 % tolerance around the nominal 170 V rating. This tight VBR spread ensures consistent clamping behavior across production lots and temperature extremes, critical for predictable system-level surge protection design using the P6KE170C-E3/73.
Is P6KE170C-E3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, P6KE170C-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive use, including under-hood environments. Its -55 °C to +175 °C operating range, validated temperature cycling, and HTRB performance make it appropriate for engine control units, body electronics, and sensor interfaces where the P6KE170C-E3/73 provides certified transient immunity per ISO 7637-2 and ISO 16750-2.
How does the bi-directional nature of P6KE170C-E3/73 affect its circuit placement?
The bi-directional construction of P6KE170C-E3/73 means it has no anode/cathode marking and conducts identically in both voltage polarities. This allows direct placement across AC-coupled lines, transformer secondaries, or floating differential pairs without orientation checks - simplifying assembly and eliminating risk of reverse installation that could compromise protection when using uni-directional variants like P6KE170A.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P6KE170C-E3/73 under surge conditions?
The P6KE170C-E3/73 clamps to a maximum of 234 V when subjected to its rated 2.6 A peak pulse current (IPPM) with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This VC value is measured at TA = 25 °C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during standardized surge events - a key parameter used to verify safe operation margins for downstream components in designs using the P6KE170C-E3/73.
Does P6KE170C-E3/73 meet RoHS and lead-free assembly requirements?
Yes, P6KE170C-E3/73 carries the "E3" suffix indicating full RoHS compliance and compatibility with lead-free reflow processes. Its matte tin-plated leads meet J-STD-002 solderability standards and JESD 201 class 1A whisker resistance requirements, ensuring reliable interconnect integrity in modern manufacturing flows where the P6KE170C-E3/73 is deployed in high-volume consumer and industrial products.
P6KE170C-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):
- 138V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 153V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 244V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 2.5A
- 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)
P6KE170C-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE170C-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE170C-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 P6KE170C-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE170C-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 P6KE170C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE170C-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE170C-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE170C-E3/73?
P6KE170C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE170C-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 P6KE170C-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE170C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE170C-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE170C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE170C-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 P6KE170C-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE170C-E3/73?
All P6KE170C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE170C-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 P6KE170C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE170C-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE170C-E3/73 Tags

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