Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE170HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE170HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE170HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 138VWM 244VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,896
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Product details
Overview
P6KE170HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a uni-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal 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 engine control units to protect 12 V–24 V microcontroller I/O and CAN transceiver interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE170HE3/73 datasheet, P6KE170HE3/73 pinout, P6KE170HE3/73 application, or P6KE170HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, DO-204AC (DO-15) package compatibility, unidirectional polarity with cathode band marking, and thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W) critical for sustained surge handling in under-hood environments.
Technical Context
This device operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: when transient voltage exceeds VWM (145 V), it avalanches near VBR (162–179 V) and clamps to ≤234 V at 2.6 A, diverting surge energy away from downstream ICs. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage (<1.0 μA at VWM) and fast response (<1 ns), enabling protection against ESD, load dump, and inductive switching spikes.
Designed for single-pulse and low-duty-cycle repetitive surges (0.01 %), it sustains 100 A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM) and operates across –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature. The HE3 suffix confirms AEC-Q101 qualification, matte tin plating per J-STD-002, and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance - distinguishing it from commercial-grade E3 variants.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 145 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before conduction begins; sets safe margin below system rail (e.g., 12 V/24 V automotive bus). |
| VBR (min/max) | 162 V / 179 V at 1.0 mA - Breakdown threshold range defining avalanche onset; ensures reliable triggering without premature conduction. |
| VC @ IPPM | 234 V at 2.6 A - Clamped voltage during 10/1000 μs surge; determines maximum stress imposed on protected circuitry. |
| PPPM | 600 W - Peak pulse power handling capability; supports robust protection against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) events. |
| IPPM | 2.6 A - Peak pulse current corresponding to VC; used with PCB trace impedance to calculate actual clamping margin. |
| TJ max | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables placement near heat sources (e.g., power modules) without derating loss. |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - Junction-to-lead thermal resistance; informs heatsinking requirements for repeated surge duty cycles. |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0. Cathode indicated by color band on one end; anode is unmarked lead.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked lead) | Current entry point during forward conduction | Connected to lower-potential side (e.g., ground or return path); defines polarity for uni-directional operation. |
| Cathode (banded lead) | Current exit point during reverse avalanche | Connected to protected line (e.g., 24 V rail or CAN_H); conducts surge current to ground when V > VWM. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood applications including engine control, transmission, and body electronics. |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and low leakage (<1.0 μA) over temperature and lifetime. |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Withstands ISO 7637-2 load dump surges up to 120 V peak without degradation. |
| Fast response time (<1 ns) | Clamps transients before sensitive logic (e.g., MCU GPIO or CAN PHY) experiences overstress. |
| Matte tin plated leads | Guarantees solderability per J-STD-002 and eliminates whisker risk (JESD 201 Class 2). |
Applications
| Automotive Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller GPIO and sensor interface lines from load dump and alternator ripple in 12 V/24 V vehicle electrical systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt TVS placed between supply rail and ground, triggered within nanoseconds to clamp transients above 145 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic inputs during ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a events (up to 60 V superimposed on 24 V rail). |
Use Scenario: Shields 24 V digital input optocouplers and level translators from field-wiring induced surges in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary protection element on dry-contact input terminals, absorbing inductive kickback from solenoid/relay coils. Use Value: Maintains system uptime by preventing false triggering or destruction of isolation barriers during 1 kV/μs fast transients. |
| Telecom Power Supply Front-End | Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Board |
Use Scenario: Guards AC/DC converter output rails and communication interfaces (RS-485, UART) against lightning-induced surges on outdoor telecom equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level TVS after MOV/GDT stages, providing precise clamping for low-voltage ICs. Use Value: Limits residual clamping voltage to ≤234 V, ensuring downstream regulators and PHYs remain within absolute maximum ratings. |
Use Scenario: Safeguards gate drivers and MCU power domains from back-EMF spikes generated by brushed DC motors in washing machines or HVAC blowers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Localized suppression directly at motor connector, minimizing loop inductance for optimal high-frequency transient capture. Use Value: Enables use of cost-effective 200 V-rated MOSFETs by limiting voltage overshoot to <234 V during 100 A commutation events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ170A | Same VWM (145 V) and VC (234 V), but lower PPPM (400 W) and smaller SMA package (lower IPPM = 1.7 A). | Not AEC-Q101 qualified; suited for commercial-grade consumer/industrial boards only. | Select when space-constrained layouts require surface-mount and automotive qualification is unnecessary. |
| 1.5KE170A | Identical VWM, VBR, and VC, but higher PPPM (1500 W) and larger DO-201AD package (RθJL = 10 °C/W). | Higher surge capacity suits heavy industrial motor drives; not AEC-Q101 qualified. | Choose for legacy through-hole designs needing greater single-pulse energy absorption beyond 600 W. |
Compared with SMAJ170A and 1.5KE170A, P6KE170HE3/73 uniquely balances AEC-Q101 compliance, 600 W surge rating, and DO-15 form factor - making it the preferred choice for new automotive electronics where qualification, reliability, and board-space constraints coexist.
Availability
P6KE170HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECUs, industrial PLC input modules, telecom power supplies, and consumer appliance motor drive boards requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE170HE3/73 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, efficiency, and application-specific performance.
The P6KE series was engineered for cost-effective, high-surge-capability transient protection in space-constrained DC power and signal lines - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom markets where failure modes must be mitigated without adding complexity.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of P6KE170HE3/73?
P6KE170HE3/73 is a uni-directional TVS diode: the banded end is the cathode and must be connected to the line being protected (e.g., 24 V rail), while the unmarked lead connects to ground. This configuration allows forward conduction only during negative transients and reverse avalanche during positive overvoltage events - essential for DC rail protection. Unlike bi-directional variants (e.g., P6KE170CA), P6KE170HE3/73 does not suppress symmetrical AC transients.
Is P6KE170HE3/73 suitable for ISO 7637-2 load dump protection?
Yes, P6KE170HE3/73 is validated for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) protection in 24 V automotive systems. With a 145 V VWM, 162–179 V VBR, and 234 V clamping voltage at 2.6 A, it limits surge voltage to levels compatible with 200 V-rated downstream components. Its AEC-Q101 qualification, 600 W peak power rating, and +175 °C TJ max ensure robustness under repeated load dump conditions - confirmed in Vishay's application notes for engine control and body electronics.
How does the HE3 suffix differ from E3 in P6KE170HE3/73?
The HE3 suffix in P6KE170HE3/73 denotes AEC-Q101 qualification, JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and extended reliability testing for automotive use - whereas E3 indicates RoHS-compliant commercial grade only. Both share DO-204AC packaging and identical electrical specs, but HE3 undergoes additional temperature cycling, humidity bias, and surge life validation. For automotive production, P6KE170HE3/73 is mandatory; P6KE170E3/73 is restricted to non-automotive applications.
What is the maximum allowable mounting temperature for P6KE170HE3/73 during reflow or wave soldering?
P6KE170HE3/73 supports solder dip at 275 °C maximum for 10 seconds per JESD 22-B106, and its matte tin-plated leads comply with J-STD-002 for solderability. For wave soldering, peak temperature must not exceed 275 °C for ≤10 s; for reflow, standard SnPb or lead-free profiles are acceptable provided preheat and soak phases stay within JEDEC J-STD-020 limits. Exceeding these thresholds risks epoxy cracking or junction degradation - always verify with Vishay's package reliability report for P6KE170HE3/73.
Can P6KE170HE3/73 be used in parallel for higher surge current handling?
No - P6KE170HE3/73 should not be paralleled due to VBR mismatch (±5 % tolerance) causing current imbalance and premature failure of the lower-VBR unit. Vishay specifies single-device operation only; for higher IPPM, select a higher-power variant like 1.5KE170A (1500 W) or use staged protection (e.g., GDT + P6KE170HE3/73). Parallel connection voids AEC-Q101 qualification and invalidates thermal derating curves in the P6KE170HE3/73 datasheet.
P6KE170HE3/73 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):
- 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:
- -
- 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)
P6KE170HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE170HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE170HE3/73 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 P6KE170HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE170HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE170HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE170HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE170HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE170HE3/73?
P6KE170HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE170HE3/73 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 P6KE170HE3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE170HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE170HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE170HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE170HE3/73 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 P6KE170HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE170HE3/73?
All P6KE170HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE170HE3/73, 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 P6KE170HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE170HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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