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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE18C-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE18C-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE18C-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 14.5VWM 26.5VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:8,850
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Product details
Overview
P6KE18C-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for clamping voltage transients on signal and power lines. It features a 18 V breakdown voltage (VBR min/max = 17.1–18.9 V), 15.3 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 25.2 V maximum clamping voltage at 23.8 A peak pulse current, 600 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and DO-204AC (DO-15) package. It protects MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces in automotive and industrial control systems.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE18C-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE18C-E3/73 pinout, P6KE18C-E3/73 application, or P6KE18C-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include bi-directional clamping capability, low clamping ratio (VC/VWM ≈ 1.65), AEC-Q101 qualification, thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), and UL 94 V-0 molded epoxy housing - all critical for robust overvoltage protection in harsh environments.
Technical Context
The P6KE18C-E3/73 operates as a bi-directional avalanche diode with symmetrical breakdown in both polarities, enabling transient suppression on AC-coupled or floating lines without polarity concerns. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and low leakage (<1 µA at VWM), while the 10/1000 µs waveform rating confirms suitability for lightning surge and inductive switching events.
Thermal design is supported by RθJL = 20 °C/W and RθJA = 75 °C/W, allowing reliable operation up to TJ = 175 °C. The device fails short-circuit under severe overload - a fail-safe behavior that activates upstream fusing, preserving downstream circuit integrity in automotive and industrial power rails.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V - defines guaranteed avalanche conduction onset across temperature and unit variation |
| VWM | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse working voltage before leakage exceeds 1 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 23.8 A - clamping voltage during 600 W transient, limiting stress on protected ICs |
| PPPM | 600 W - peak pulse power handling per 10/1000 µs standard waveform, validated for repetitive surges at 0.01 % duty cycle |
| IPPM | 23.8 A - maximum non-repetitive surge current the device safely clamps without degradation |
| TJ max | 175 °C - junction temperature limit enabling use in under-hood automotive and high-ambient industrial enclosures |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - axial-leaded, UL 94 V-0 epoxy package with matte tin-plated leads compliant to J-STD-002 |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) package: axial-leaded, cylindrical epoxy body, no polarity marking (bi-directional). Leads are matte tin-plated, solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102; qualified to JESD 201 Class 1A whisker test (E3 suffix).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode/Cathode (symmetrical) | Bi-directional avalanche junction | No functional distinction between leads; either terminal serves as cathode or anode depending on transient polarity |
| Lead 1 | Current path terminal | Provides mechanical anchoring and thermal conduction path to PCB copper; contributes to RθJL = 20 °C/W |
| Lead 2 | Current path terminal | Identical to Lead 1; symmetric layout enables orientation-agnostic placement on board |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bi-directional clamping | Enables single-device protection of AC signals, differential buses, or ungrounded power rails without polarity constraints |
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics subject to temperature cycling and vibration |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR and low leakage over lifetime, even under humidity and thermal stress per JESD22-A101 |
| UL 94 V-0 epoxy molding | Self-extinguishing housing prevents flame propagation in safety-critical enclosures per UL 497B recognition |
| 600 W peak pulse rating | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge events when properly routed with low-inductance PCB layout |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN bus transceivers and analog sensor inputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) from load dump and ESD in vehicle ECUs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bi-directional voltage clamp placed across differential pair or supply rail to limit transient excursions below IC absolute maximum ratings. Use Value: Clamps 15.3 V nominal line to ≤25.2 V during 23.8 A surge, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 3.3 V/5 V interface ICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V DC digital input modules in programmable logic controllers against inductive kickback from solenoid valves and relays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage shunt on field-side input terminals, coordinated with series impedance and optocoupler isolation. Use Value: Absorbs 600 W surge energy within 1000 µs, maintaining <1 µA leakage at 15.3 V to avoid false triggering of Schmitt-trigger inputs. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Output | Telecom Line Interface |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-side transient suppression on 12 V/19 V outputs of wall adapters and laptop chargers exposed to mains-borne surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage clamp after primary-side MOV and secondary-side filter, protecting USB-PD controllers and DC-DC regulators. Use Value: Limits output overshoot to 25.2 V during 10/1000 µs surges, ensuring compliance with IEC 62368-1 secondary circuit insulation requirements. |
Use Scenario: Protection of Ethernet PHY or RS-485 transceivers connected to outside plant wiring susceptible to lightning-induced surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line bi-directional suppressor on twisted-pair lines, paired with gas discharge tube (GDT) for staged protection. Use Value: Responds in <1 ps to fast-rising transients, clamping common-mode surges to <25.2 V before GDT fires, reducing let-through energy to transceiver ESD structures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18CA | Same VWM (15.3 V) and VC (29.2 V), but SMC package (higher IPPM = 24.9 A); lower RθJA (50 °C/W vs. 75 °C/W) | Better thermal performance in high-density layouts; requires larger PCB footprint than DO-15 | Select SMBJ18CA when board space permits and higher surge repetition rate is required |
| 1.5KE18CA | Same VWM/VC, but 1.5 kW rating (IPPM = 61.9 A); DO-201AD package; higher VF (3.5 V) and larger body | Higher energy absorption for infrequent but extreme surges (e.g., direct lightning coupling) | Choose 1.5KE18CA only if system-level testing confirms need for >600 W pulse handling |
Compared with SMBJ18CA and 1.5KE18CA, the P6KE18C-E3/73 offers optimal balance of compact DO-15 form factor, AEC-Q101 qualification, and verified 600 W surge capability - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive and industrial designs where standardized 10/1000 µs immunity suffices.
Availability
P6KE18C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, consumer power adapter outputs, and telecom line interfaces requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.
Supply support for P6KE18C-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, TVS devices, and power MOSFETs with emphasis on reliability, AEC-Q qualification, and application-specific packaging.
The P6KE series was developed for cost-effective, high-surge-capability transient protection in commercial and automotive environments where DO-15 compatibility, UL recognition, and bi-directional symmetry are essential design requirements.
FAQ
What does the "C" suffix in P6KE18C-E3/73 indicate?
The "C" in P6KE18C-E3/73 denotes bi-directional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression for both positive and negative voltage excursions. Unlike uni-directional variants (e.g., P6KE18A), the P6KE18C-E3/73 has no cathode marking and functions identically regardless of terminal orientation. This makes P6KE18C-E3/73 ideal for AC-coupled lines, differential buses, or floating power domains where polarity cannot be assumed.
Is P6KE18C-E3/73 RoHS and AEC-Q101 compliant?
Yes, P6KE18C-E3/73 is RoHS-compliant (per Directive 2011/65/EU) and AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's documentation (Document Number 88369, Revision 18-Sep-12). The E3 suffix indicates compliance with JESD 201 Class 1A whisker testing, and the device carries UL 94 V-0 flammability rating. These certifications make P6KE18C-E3/73 suitable for automotive under-hood applications and industrial equipment requiring long-term reliability.
How does the clamping voltage of P6KE18C-E3/73 compare to its stand-off voltage?
The P6KE18C-E3/73 has a stand-off voltage (VWM) of 15.3 V and a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V at 23.8 A - yielding a clamping ratio of ~1.65. This ratio reflects the device's ability to limit transient overvoltage while remaining below the absolute maximum ratings of typical 3.3 V or 5 V ICs it protects. The low ratio is achieved via low incremental surge resistance and fast avalanche response, ensuring P6KE18C-E3/73 delivers predictable, repeatable protection without excessive voltage overshoot.
Can P6KE18C-E3/73 replace P6KE18A in a design?
No - P6KE18C-E3/73 and P6KE18A are not interchangeable without circuit review. P6KE18A is uni-directional (cathode-marked, conducts only in reverse bias), while P6KE18C-E3/73 is bi-directional (no marking, clamps both polarities). Substituting P6KE18C-E3/73 for P6KE18A on a DC rail may cause unintended forward conduction. Use P6KE18C-E3/73 only where bi-directional protection is explicitly required, such as across AC lines or differential pairs.
What is the thermal resistance profile of P6KE18C-E3/73, and how does it affect PCB layout?
P6KE18C-E3/73 has RθJL = 20 °C/W (junction-to-lead) and RθJA = 75 °C/W (junction-to-ambient). Effective thermal management requires minimizing lead length and maximizing copper area connected to both leads - especially for repetitive surge conditions. Layout best practices include using ≥25 mil wide traces, thermal vias near pads, and avoiding narrow necks. These measures ensure P6KE18C-E3/73 maintains safe junction temperatures below 175 °C during sustained 5 W dissipation or burst-mode transients.
P6KE18C-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):
- 14.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 22.6A
- 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-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE18C-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE18C-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 P6KE18C-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE18C-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 P6KE18C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE18C-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE18C-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE18C-E3/73?
P6KE18C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE18C-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 P6KE18C-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE18C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE18C-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE18C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE18C-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 P6KE18C-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE18C-E3/73?
All P6KE18C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE18C-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 P6KE18C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE18C-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE18C-E3/73 Tags
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