Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE18A-E3/54
- Part No.:
- P6KE18A-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE18A-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P6KE18A-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 17.1 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 15.3 V standoff voltage (VWM), 25.2 V maximum clamping voltage at 23.8 A peak pulse current, 600 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform, and DO-15 package. It protects MOSFETs and ICs against inductive switching transients in automotive and industrial control modules.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE18A-E3/54 datasheet, P6KE18A-E3/54 pinout, P6KE18A-E3/54 application, or P6KE18A-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin relative to protected device's absolute maximum rating, standoff voltage compatibility with operating rail (e.g., 15 V systems), thermal derating above 25 °C, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive-grade reliability validation.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents high impedance (>1 MΩ at 15.3 V), but avalanches sharply when transient voltage exceeds VBR (17.1–18.9 V), limiting downstream voltage to ≤25.2 V at 23.8 A. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown characteristics and low leakage (<1 μA at VWM).
Designed for 10/1000 μs surge waveforms per IEC 61000-4-5, it delivers 600 W peak pulse power with 0.01 % duty cycle repeatability. Thermal resistance is 20 °C/W (junction-to-lead) and 75 °C/W (junction-to-ambient), requiring lead-length-aware PCB layout for sustained power dissipation up to 5.0 W at TL = 75 °C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15.3 V - Maximum continuous reverse operating voltage; must exceed system nominal rail (e.g., 15 V supply) to avoid leakage conduction during normal operation |
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1.0 mA - Confirmed avalanche initiation range; defines minimum overvoltage threshold before clamping begins |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 23.8 A - Maximum clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 μs surge; determines headroom for downstream device's absolute max rating |
| PPPM | 600 W - Peak surge power handling with standard 10/1000 μs waveform; validates suitability for Level 3/4 IEC 61000-4-5 immunity testing |
| IPPM | 23.8 A - Corresponding peak pulse current at VC; used to size series impedance (e.g., fuse, resistor) upstream of P6KE18A-E3/54 |
| TJ max | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; enables operation in under-hood automotive environments with proper thermal design |
| Package | DO-15 (DO-204AC) - Standard axial-leaded through-hole package; compatible with legacy wave-solder and hand-solder processes; 0.25" lead spacing |
Pinout & Package
DO-15 (DO-204AC) molded epoxy package with matte tin-plated leads. Cathode indicated by color band on body; anode is unmarked end. Leads conform to J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102 solderability standards. Solder dip rated at 275 °C max for 10 s.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked end) | Current entry point during forward conduction; grounded reference in unidirectional clamp configuration | Connected to system ground or low-side return path; establishes reference for clamping action on cathode side |
| Cathode (banded end) | Transient voltage sensing and clamping node | Connected to protected line (e.g., 15 V rail); conducts surge current to ground when voltage exceeds VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable, repeatable breakdown voltage over temperature and lifetime; eliminates parameter drift due to surface contamination or humidity |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Validates robustness against severe transients such as load dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and inductive switch-off spikes in 12 V automotive systems |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (E3 suffix variant) | Confirms reliability for automotive applications including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes voltage overshoot during fast-rising transients (<1 ns rise time), improving protection effectiveness for CMOS ICs and gate drivers |
| UL 94 V-0 compliant molding compound | Meets flammability safety requirements for enclosed industrial and automotive enclosures without additional potting or shielding |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 15 V supply rail in engine control module from load dump and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional shunt TVS placed between rail and chassis ground; clamps transients exceeding 17.1 V within nanoseconds. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤25.2 V during 23.8 A surges, preventing damage to microcontrollers and CAN transceivers rated for 36 V absolute max. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog output line (4–20 mA loop) of pressure sensor in factory automation PLC. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cathode tied to signal line, anode to ground; suppresses ESD and cable discharge events per IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4. Use Value: Clamps 8 kV contact ESD to <25.2 V in <1 ns, preserving 16-bit DAC accuracy and avoiding latch-up in op-amp signal conditioning stage. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input Protection | Telecom Line Card Surge Suppression |
Use Scenario: Secondary-side DC output (15 V) of wall adapter exposed to user-handling ESD and AC-line coupled noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standoff voltage (15.3 V) matches nominal output; clamps transients before reaching USB-PD controller or LDO regulator. Use Value: Prevents catastrophic failure of synchronous rectifier MOSFETs by limiting voltage stress to 25.2 V during 10/1000 μs surges up to 600 W. | Use Scenario: Protecting Ethernet PHY interface on telecom line card from lightning-induced surges entering via RJ45 port. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Used in conjunction with gas discharge tube (GDT) front-end; handles residual fast-rising energy after GDT fires. Use Value: Provides sub-25 V clamping for <100 ns transients, ensuring PHY ICs (e.g., Marvell 88E1512) remain within safe operating area during ITU-T K.21 Zone A/B events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18A | DO-214AA (SMB) surface-mount package; same VWM/VBR/VC specs; 600 W rating; lower RθJA (50 °C/W) | Requires reflow-compatible PCB layout; better suited for high-density consumer electronics where board space is constrained | Select SMBJ18A when migrating from through-hole to SMT assembly or when thermal performance under forced-air cooling is critical |
| 1.5KE18A | Same DO-15 package; higher 1500 W peak power rating; larger junction area; 3.5 V forward voltage at 50 A | Overqualified for 600 W use cases; higher cost and larger footprint than needed for typical 15 V rail protection | Choose 1.5KE18A only if system-level surge testing requires >600 W margin or if long-term reliability under repeated 1000× surges is mandated |
Compared with SMBJ18A and 1.5KE18A, P6KE18A-E3/54 offers optimal balance of cost, proven automotive qualification (AEC-Q101), and through-hole manufacturability for medium-volume industrial and automotive modules-without over-engineering power rating or sacrificing RoHS-compliant lead finish.
Availability
P6KE18A-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive control units, industrial sensor interfaces, consumer power adapters, and telecom line cards requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for P6KE18A-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, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P6KE series targets cost-sensitive, high-volume transient protection needs in automotive, industrial, and consumer systems-delivering AEC-Q101-qualified robustness in standard DO-15 packaging without premium pricing.
FAQ
What is the standoff voltage (VWM) of the P6KE18A-E3/54 and why does it matter?
The P6KE18A-E3/54 has a standoff voltage (VWM) of 15.3 V, meaning it remains non-conductive up to this DC or RMS voltage. This value must be ≥10 % below the protected circuit's maximum operating voltage to prevent leakage or false triggering-e.g., it's ideal for 15 V rails where 15.3 V provides safe margin while allowing full system functionality. Exceeding VWM risks increased reverse leakage current that could disrupt low-power sensor biasing.
How does the P6KE18A-E3/54 respond to a fast ESD event like IEC 61000-4-2 Contact Discharge?
The P6KE18A-E3/54 responds in <1 ns due to its avalanche junction structure, clamping an 8 kV ESD strike to ≤25.2 V at peak current. Its low incremental surge resistance ensures minimal voltage overshoot during sub-nanosecond rise times. For full IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 compliance, it must be placed within 2 cm of the connector with short, low-inductance ground paths-verified in Vishay's application note AN8002 using P6KE18A-E3/54 test data.
Is the P6KE18A-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications, and what qualification does it hold?
Yes-the P6KE18A-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified when ordered with the HE3 suffix (e.g., P6KE18AHE3/54). The E3 suffix indicates RoHS-compliant commercial grade with JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance. For automotive use, specify HE3 to ensure qualification for under-hood temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and long-term reliability per AEC-Q101 Rev D. P6KE18A-E3/54 itself is commercial grade but shares identical electrical specs and DO-15 construction.
What is the maximum clamping voltage (VC) of the P6KE18A-E3/54 and how is it applied in circuit design?
The P6KE18A-E3/54 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V at 23.8 A peak pulse current (10/1000 μs waveform). In design, this value sets the upper voltage limit imposed on downstream components during surge events-so protected ICs must have absolute maximum ratings >25.2 V. For example, pairing P6KE18A-E3/54 with a 36 V-rated CAN transceiver (e.g., TJA1042) ensures safe operation even during worst-case ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2b tests.
Can the P6KE18A-E3/54 be used in bidirectional configurations, and what part number indicates that?
No-P6KE18A-E3/54 is unidirectional only, with cathode marked by a band. Bidirectional variants use the "CA" suffix (e.g., P6KE18CA), which lacks polarity marking and clamps symmetrically in both directions. Using P6KE18A-E3/54 in AC-coupled or floating signal lines would result in unintended forward conduction during negative half-cycles. Always select P6KE18CA for bidirectional protection such as RS-485 or audio line inputs.
P6KE18A-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):
- 15.3V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 25.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 23.8A
- 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)
P6KE18A-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE18A-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE18A-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 P6KE18A-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE18A-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 P6KE18A-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE18A-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE18A-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE18A-E3/54?
P6KE18A-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE18A-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 P6KE18A-E3/54?
For technical support, including P6KE18A-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE18A-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE18A-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE18A-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 P6KE18A-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE18A-E3/54?
All P6KE18A-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE18A-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 P6KE18A-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE18A-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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