Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P6KE18C
- Part No.:
- P6KE18C
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE18C.pdf
- Description:
- 600W, 18V, BIDIRECTIONAL, TVS
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,885
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
P6KE18C from Taiwan Semiconductor is a unidirectional 600W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a nominal breakdown voltage of 18 V, clamps transients to ≤26.5 V at 23 A peak surge current, and delivers fast response (<1.0 ps from 0 V to VBR), low dynamic impedance, and <1 µA reverse leakage above 10 V. It is widely deployed in automotive body electronics and industrial control I/O protection.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE18C datasheet, P6KE18C pinout, P6KE18C application, or P6KE18C equivalent, key selection criteria include its DO-204AC (DO-15) package compatibility, unidirectional polarity marking, 18 V standoff capability, and 600 W 10/1000 µs surge rating - all critical for ESD and inductive switching transient suppression in cost-sensitive, high-reliability designs.
Technical Context
The P6KE18C operates as a silicon avalanche diode with sharp reverse-biased breakdown behavior, enabling precise clamping during fast-rising transients such as EFT (IEC 61000-4-4) and ISO 7637-2 pulses. Its junction temperature range spans −55 °C to +175 °C, supporting under-hood automotive use, and it meets UL 94V-0 flammability and JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance requirements.
Unlike bidirectional variants (e.g., P6KE18CA), the "C" suffix denotes unidirectional configuration with cathode band marking. Electrical characteristics are specified at TA = 25 °C with 1 mA test current (IT), and derating applies above ambient temperatures per Fig.2 - critical for thermal design in enclosed enclosures or high-power PCB layouts.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 14.5 V - maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without conduction; defines safe operating margin below breakdown |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 16.2–19.8 V at 1 mA - guaranteed avalanche onset range; ensures predictable clamping initiation across production lots |
| VC @ IPP (Clamping Voltage) | 26.5 V at 23 A (10/1000 µs) - peak voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge; determines downstream component stress |
| PPK (Peak Pulse Power) | 600 W - maximum non-repetitive surge energy absorption capability; validates suitability for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a tests |
| IR @ VWM (Reverse Leakage) | <1 µA - negligible standby current draw; avoids loading sensitive reference or bias networks |
| Response Time | <1.0 ps - sub-picosecond transition from off-state to clamping; essential for protecting nanosecond-scale logic interfaces |
| Junction Temp. Range | −55 °C to +175 °C - enables deployment in engine control units, motor drives, and industrial PLCs without thermal derating penalties |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, epoxy-molded case with pure tin-plated leads (J-STD-002 compliant). Cathode indicated by band marking; polarity must be observed for correct unidirectional clamping.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side connection point | Connected to ground or low-voltage rail; completes clamping path during overvoltage events |
| Cathode | High-side connection point | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V supply); conducts avalanche current when VAK exceeds VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 600 W surge rating (10/1000 µs) | Validates compliance with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) and IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 immunity testing |
| Low dynamic impedance | Minimizes clamping voltage overshoot during fast transients, preserving margin for downstream ICs rated to 30 V absolute max |
| AEC-Q101 qualified option (P6KE18CH) | Enables direct use in automotive ECUs without additional qualification effort; includes extended reliability screening |
| UL 94V-0 flammability rating | Meets safety standards for enclosure-integrated protection in industrial equipment and lighting systems |
| Halogen-free & RoHS compliant | Supports environmental compliance for global OEMs and eliminates corrosive halogen emissions during end-of-life incineration |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V CAN/LIN bus power rails and sensor supply lines from load dump and jump-start surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between VCC and GND to clamp positive-going transients before they reach LDOs or microcontroller power pins. Use Value: Limits peak voltage to 26.5 V during 600 W surges, preventing latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic powered from the same rail. | Use Scenario: Shielding 24 V digital input channels from inductive kickback caused by relay or solenoid de-energization. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end clamping device on field-side input traces, absorbing >100 A surge currents before reaching optocoupler or Schmitt trigger inputs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by limiting transient duration to <1 ns and holding clamped voltage below 30 V - within absolute maximum ratings of common interface ICs. |
| LED Driver Power Supply Protection | ESD-Sensitive Sensor Interface |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding constant-current LED driver ICs against voltage spikes induced by hot-plug events or cable discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-connected TVS on input capacitor node, shunting surge energy away from driver MOSFET gate oxide and current-sense amplifier. Use Value: Withstands 600 W surges while adding only 1 µA leakage, avoiding efficiency loss or thermal drift in precision current regulation. | Use Scenario: Protecting I²C or SPI lines connected to MEMS accelerometers or temperature sensors from human-body-model (HBM) ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS (CJ ≈ 100–300 pF at 0 V) placed directly at connector entry point to divert ESD before signal integrity is compromised. Use Value: Sub-1 ps response ensures clamping initiates before ESD pulse edge reaches IC pin, reducing failure rate in production test and field operation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18A (Bourns) | Same 18 V nominal, 600 W rating, but SMB package (surface-mount); lower IPP (23.3 A vs. 23 A) and slightly higher VC (29.2 V) | Requires PCB re-layout; better suited for automated SMT assembly and space-constrained designs | Select SMBJ18A when board real estate is limited and reflow compatibility is required; P6KE18C remains optimal for through-hole prototyping or high-vibration environments. |
| 1.5KE18A (ON Semiconductor) | Identical DO-15 package and 18 V rating, but 1.5 kW rating (1.5KE series); higher VC (29.2 V) and larger junction capacitance | Over-specified for 600 W needs; introduces unnecessary cost and board area if full 1.5 kW capability is unused | Choose 1.5KE18A only when future-proofing for higher-energy threats (e.g., ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5b); P6KE18C offers tighter VC and lower leakage for standard 600 W protection. |
Compared with SMBJ18A and 1.5KE18A, P6KE18C delivers the lowest clamping voltage (26.5 V) and lowest leakage (<1 µA) in its class, making it ideal for protecting low-voltage logic rails where margin is constrained and standby power matters.
Availability
P6KE18C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC I/O modules, LED driver power supplies, and ESD-sensitive sensor interfaces requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE18C 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
Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation (TSC) is a vertically integrated analog and discrete semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets since 1979.
The P6KE series belongs to TSC's high-reliability TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in harsh environments - emphasizing AEC-Q101 qualification, wide temperature operation, and consistent clamping performance.
FAQ
What is the polarity configuration of P6KE18C?
P6KE18C is a unidirectional TVS diode with cathode indicated by a band marking on the DO-204AC (DO-15) package. It conducts only during positive transients on the cathode side relative to anode, making it suitable for DC rail protection where polarity is fixed. This differs from bidirectional variants like P6KE18CA, which protect both polarities without regard to orientation.
Does P6KE18C meet AEC-Q101 qualification?
The base P6KE18C is not AEC-Q101 qualified; however, the variant P6KE18CH (with "H" suffix) is fully AEC-Q101 qualified per Rev. P2203 documentation. Engineers designing for automotive applications must specify P6KE18CH to ensure compliance with stress testing requirements including temperature cycling, HTRB, and ESD.
What is the maximum clamping voltage of P6KE18C under surge conditions?
The maximum clamping voltage (VC) of P6KE18C is 26.5 V at 23 A peak pulse current (IPP) with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range and represents the highest voltage the protected circuit will experience during a worst-case transient event - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within their absolute maximum ratings.
How does P6KE18C compare to P6KE18A in terms of electrical performance?
P6KE18C has a breakdown voltage range of 16.2–19.8 V at 1 mA, while P6KE18A tightens this to 17.1–18.9 V. Both share identical VWM (14.5 V), VC (26.5 V), and surge rating (600 W), but P6KE18A offers tighter VBR tolerance for applications demanding precise clamping onset - such as precision voltage monitoring circuits where ±5% variation is unacceptable.
Can P6KE18C be used in bidirectional signal line protection?
No - P6KE18C is strictly unidirectional and must be oriented with cathode toward the protected line. For bidirectional AC or differential signal protection (e.g., RS-485, USB D+/D−), use the P6KE18CA variant instead. Using P6KE18C on bidirectional lines risks forward conduction during negative half-cycles, potentially damaging the diode or distorting signals.
P6KE18C Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- P6KE
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 14.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 23A
- 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)
P6KE18C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE18C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE18C 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 P6KE18C reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE18C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE18C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE18C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE18C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE18C?
P6KE18C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE18C 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 P6KE18C?
For technical support, including P6KE18C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE18C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE18C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE18C 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 P6KE18C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE18C?
All P6KE18C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE18C, 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 P6KE18C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE18C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE18C Tags

-
ESD9B5.0ST5G
onsemi

-
DESD3V3E1BL-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z3.3T1G
onsemi

-
D5V0H1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
D5V0P1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
DESD5V0U1BA-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
ESD5Z5.0T1G
onsemi

-
DESD5V0U1BB-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
D12V0L1B2LP-7B
Diodes Incorporated

-
PESD2V0Y1BSFYL
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
DF2S5M4CT,L3F
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
D5V0L1B2WS-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

