Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE20A-E3/54
- Part No.:
- P6KE20A-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE20A-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 17.1VWM 27.7VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
P6KE20A-E3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary-level overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 20 V nominal breakdown voltage (VBR = 19.0–21.0 V at 1.0 mA), 27.7 V maximum clamping voltage at 21.7 A peak pulse current, 600 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 μs), and DO-15 package with matte tin-plated leads. It protects MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces against inductive switching transients in industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE20A-E3/54 datasheet, P6KE20A-E3/54 pinout, P6KE20A-E3/54 application, or P6KE20A-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin relative to protected device VDS/VCC, standoff voltage compatibility with operating rail (VWM = 17.1 V), thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), and AEC-Q101 qualification status - critical for automotive-grade reliability validation.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: under normal conditions it presents <1.0 μA leakage at 17.1 V standoff, then rapidly avalanches when transient voltage exceeds 19.0 V, limiting downstream voltage to ≤27.7 V at 21.7 A. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown and low incremental surge resistance.
Designed for 10/1000 μs waveform compliance, it delivers 600 W peak pulse power with 0.01 % duty cycle repeatability and supports 100 A non-repetitive forward surge (8.3 ms half-sine). Thermal performance is defined by RθJL = 20 °C/W and TJ(max) = +175 °C, enabling operation in high-ambient industrial environments without forced cooling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 19.0 V / 21.0 V at 1.0 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for reliable overvoltage triggering |
| VWM | 17.1 V - maximum continuous working voltage; must exceed system rail voltage to prevent leakage-induced power loss |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V at 21.7 A - clamping voltage during 600 W transient; determines worst-case stress on protected IC's absolute maximum rating |
| IPPM | 21.7 A - peak pulse current capability under 10/1000 μs waveform; sets minimum surge energy handling (≈1.2 J) |
| PPPM | 600 W - standardized surge power rating; enables direct comparison with competing TVS devices under identical test conditions |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - junction-to-lead thermal resistance; informs PCB copper area requirements for sustained power dissipation |
| TJ(max) | +175 °C - maximum junction temperature; supports operation in under-hood automotive or enclosed industrial enclosures |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-15 (DO-204AC) - axial-leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating; lead length ≥25.4 mm; body diameter 3.3–3.5 mm; RoHS-compliant matte tin plating per J-STD-002.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry terminal during forward conduction | Connected to ground or lower-potential node in unidirectional configuration; enables low-VF (3.5 V @ 50 A) path during surge |
| Cathode | Current exit terminal; marked with color band | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); avalanche occurs between cathode and anode when VAK > VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated chip junction | Ensures stable, repeatable breakdown voltage with minimal drift over temperature and lifetime |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Provides robust protection against common ESD and inductive-switching transients without derating at room temperature |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (E3 suffix variant) | Validates reliability for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.42) | Minimizes overvoltage overshoot during surge events, reducing risk of latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream FETs |
| Solder dip rated 275 °C for 10 s | Supports standard wave soldering processes without parametric shift or mechanical degradation |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 12 V battery-fed ECUs exposed to load-dump transients up to 40 V and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary shunt clamp placed directly across input filter capacitor to limit voltage seen by LDOs and microcontrollers. Use Value: Clamps 21.7 A surge to 27.7 V within nanoseconds, preventing permanent damage to 30 V-rated power management ICs. |
Use Scenario: Analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) routed through long cables in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-entry protection on differential signal pairs before instrumentation amplifier inputs. Use Value: Limits induced lightning/ESD transients to <28 V while maintaining <1.0 μA leakage at 17.1 V, preserving signal integrity and offset accuracy. |
| DC-DC Converter Input Protection | Consumer Power Adapter Output Protection |
Use Scenario: 24 V input to isolated flyback converter subjected to back-EMF from relay coils and motor drivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between input bulk cap and primary-side controller IC. Use Value: Absorbs 600 W surges without failure, enabling use of smaller input capacitors and eliminating need for secondary crowbar circuits. |
Use Scenario: 5 V/9 V USB-C PD adapter output exposed to hot-plug and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage clamp before connector to protect connected mobile devices from overvoltage faults. Use Value: Meets IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 Ω) with margin, while adding <0.1 mm² footprint and zero standby power draw. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMAJ20A | Same VBR (19.0–21.0 V), but SMA package (surface-mount); lower IPPM (21.2 A vs. 21.7 A); RθJA = 50 °C/W (vs. 75 °C/W for DO-15) | Preferred for space-constrained PCBs; less effective in high-ambient without thermal relief | Select SMAJ20A when board real estate is limited and thermal vias can be added; retain P6KE20A-E3/54 for through-hole legacy designs or high-power derating headroom. |
| 1.5KE20A | Same DO-15 package and VBR, but higher PPPM = 1500 W; larger die size; higher VC = 32.4 V at 46.3 A | Better suited for severe industrial transients (e.g., AC line coupling); higher clamping voltage risks marginal ICs | Choose 1.5KE20A only if system-level testing confirms protected ICs tolerate 32.4 V clamping; otherwise P6KE20A-E3/54 offers optimal balance of size, clamping, and cost. |
Compared with SMAJ20A and 1.5KE20A, P6KE20A-E3/54 delivers the most favorable clamping voltage (27.7 V) in its class while maintaining proven through-hole manufacturability and AEC-Q101 qualification - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, thermally demanding, or automotive-qualified designs where precise voltage limiting is critical.
Availability
P6KE20A-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power rail protection, industrial sensor interface protection, DC-DC converter input protection, and consumer power adapter output protection requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE20A-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 was engineered for cost-effective, high-energy transient suppression in commercial and automotive systems where compact size, fast response, and repeatable clamping are essential - particularly in power supply front-ends and sensor signal conditioning paths.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE20A-E3/54 under a 10/1000 μs transient?
The P6KE20A-E3/54 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 21.7 A using the standardized 10/1000 μs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and represents the worst-case voltage imposed on protected circuitry during surge events - a critical parameter for ensuring downstream ICs remain within their absolute maximum ratings. The P6KE20A-E3/54 achieves this with a clamping ratio of approximately 1.42 relative to its VBR.
Is the P6KE20A-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE20A-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified, confirming its reliability for automotive electronic systems including engine control modules, body controllers, and infotainment power supplies. Its DO-15 package, 175 °C maximum junction temperature, and validated performance under temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock meet automotive grade requirements. The E3 suffix specifically denotes RoHS-compliant, commercial-grade parts with AEC-Q101 qualification - verified in Vishay's official documentation for P6KE20A-E3/54.
What does the "-E3/54" suffix indicate in P6KE20A-E3/54?
The "-E3/54" suffix in P6KE20A-E3/54 specifies two key ordering attributes: "E3" denotes RoHS-compliant, matte tin-plated leads meeting JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance, and "/54" identifies the preferred package code for 13-inch paper tape and reel packaging containing 4000 units. This format aligns with Vishay's standardized ordering nomenclature and ensures correct material traceability, solderability, and automated assembly compatibility for the P6KE20A-E3/54.
How does the P6KE20A-E3/54 compare to bidirectional TVS diodes like P6KE20CA?
The P6KE20A-E3/54 is unidirectional and features a cathode band marking; it conducts only in reverse avalanche and forward conduction, making it suitable for DC rail protection. In contrast, P6KE20CA is bidirectional with no polarity marking and symmetric clamping in both directions - used for AC lines or differential data signals. The P6KE20A-E3/54 has lower leakage (<1.0 μA at 17.1 V) than P6KE20CA at equivalent VWM, and its forward voltage (3.5 V @ 50 A) provides a defined low-impedance path during fault conditions - a behavior absent in bidirectional variants.
What is the thermal resistance specification for the P6KE20A-E3/54, and how does it affect layout?
The P6KE20A-E3/54 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RθJA) of 75 °C/W. For reliable operation at full 5.0 W steady-state dissipation, PCB layout must provide adequate copper area on both leads - typically ≥100 mm² per lead with thermal vias - to maintain TJ below 175 °C. The RθJL value means that even with minimal copper, the P6KE20A-E3/54 can safely handle short-duration surges without overheating, which is essential for transient-only protection roles.
P6KE20A-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):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 19V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 27.7V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 21.7A
- 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)
P6KE20A-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE20A-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE20A-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 P6KE20A-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE20A-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 P6KE20A-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE20A-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE20A-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE20A-E3/54?
P6KE20A-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE20A-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 P6KE20A-E3/54?
For technical support, including P6KE20A-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE20A-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE20A-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE20A-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 P6KE20A-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE20A-E3/54?
All P6KE20A-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE20A-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 P6KE20A-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE20A-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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