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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE20C-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE20C-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE20C-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16.2VWM 29.1VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,347
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Product details
Overview
P6KE20C-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bi-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for overvoltage protection of sensitive electronics against ESD, lightning surges, and inductive switching transients. It features a 20 V breakdown voltage (VBR min/max = 19.0–21.0 V), 17.1 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 27.7 V clamping voltage (VC) at 21.7 A peak pulse current, and 600 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed on signal lines and DC power rails in automotive sensor interfaces and industrial control I/O modules.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE20C-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE20C-E3/73 pinout, P6KE20C-E3/73 application, or P6KE20C-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include verified bi-directional clamping performance, DO-204AC (DO-15) package compatibility with through-hole PCB layouts, AEC-Q101 qualification status, and thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W) for sustained surge handling in ambient temperatures up to +125 °C.
Technical Context
This bi-directional TVS operates symmetrically in both polarities, with identical electrical characteristics (VBR, VC, IPPM) in forward and reverse directions. Its glass-passivated junction enables fast response time (<1 ns) and low incremental surge resistance, critical for suppressing sub-microsecond transients induced by relay switching or ESD events.
The device complies with AEC-Q101 stress testing for automotive use and meets UL 497B recognition (QVGQ2) for telecom and industrial protectors. Its 175 °C maximum junction temperature and derated power capability above 25 °C (per Fig. 2 & Fig. 5) support reliable operation in thermally constrained environments without active cooling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 19.0 V / 21.0 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise voltage threshold where clamping initiates under transient stress |
| VWM | 17.1 V - maximum continuous working voltage before leakage exceeds 1.0 μA; sets safe operating margin below breakdown |
| VC @ IPPM | 27.7 V at 21.7 A (10/1000 μs) - peak clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during worst-case surge |
| PPPM | 600 W - peak transient power absorption capacity, enabling robust protection against IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - thermal resistance from junction to lead; determines temperature rise per watt under pulsed conditions |
| TJ max. | +175 °C - maximum junction temperature; supports operation in under-hood automotive or high-ambient industrial settings |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - axial-leaded, epoxy-molded case rated UL 94 V-0; compatible with standard through-hole reflow/solder dip (275 °C, 10 s) |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, bi-directional configuration with no polarity marking - leads are electrically symmetrical and interchangeable.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode / Cathode (symmetrical) | Transient conduction path | Both terminals serve identically as bidirectional surge current entry/exit points; no cathode band or polarity indicator required |
| Leads (matte tin plated) | PCB interface and thermal path | Solderable per J-STD-002/JESD 22-B102; primary heat dissipation route to PCB copper; RθJL = 20 °C/W measured at lead center |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated chip junction | Enables <1 ns response time and stable VBR tolerance across temperature and lifetime |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 μs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 4th-level surge immunity (4 kV line-to-earth, 2 kV line-to-line) without derating |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS sensor interfaces |
| UL 497B recognized (QVGQ2) | Meets safety requirements for telecom and industrial signal line protectors without additional certification overhead |
| RoHS-compliant, matte tin leads | Ensures solderability and whisker resistance (JESD 201 Class 1A) in lead-free assembly processes |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Interface | Industrial PLC I/O Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting CAN/LIN 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 directly at connector entry point to shunt transients before reaching IC pins. Use Value: Limits voltage excursion to ≤27.7 V during 21.7 A surge, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage in 5 V/3.3 V interface ICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding digital input modules in programmable logic controllers exposed to inductive kickback from solenoids and contactors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage suppression element on 24 V DC input channels, mounted upstream of optocoupler isolation barriers. Use Value: Clamps 10/1000 μs surges to 27.7 V within nanoseconds, maintaining signal integrity while allowing system-level fault detection via current monitoring. |
| Telecom Line Interface | Consumer Appliance Power Supply |
|
Use Scenario: Shielding Ethernet PHYs and DSL line drivers from lightning-induced surges on outdoor-facing ports per ITU-T K.21. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-stage protector in multi-stage architecture, coordinated with GDTs and series impedance to meet UL 497B requirements. Use Value: UL 497B recognition (QVGQ2) eliminates need for external safety certification when used in telecom infrastructure equipment. |
Use Scenario: Suppressing switch-mode power supply turn-on transients and ESD on AC mains input filters in white goods and HVAC controls. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary surge suppressor across bridge rectifier output or bulk capacitor, complementing MOV-based primary protection. Use Value: 175 °C TJ max and 20 °C/W RθJL enable reliable operation in enclosed, thermally stressed appliance enclosures without forced air cooling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ20CA | Same VBR range (19.0–21.0 V) and bi-directional function, but SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package; 600 W rating retained | Requires PCB redesign for SMT layout; better suited for space-constrained designs where board area is premium | Select SMBJ20CA when migrating to automated SMT assembly or reducing profile height; verify thermal pad layout for RθJA impact |
| 1.5KE20CA | Higher 1500 W peak power rating, same DO-204AC package and VBR/VC specs; larger die size increases capacitance and thermal mass | Overqualified for typical 600 W surge needs; may introduce higher junction capacitance (≈150 pF vs. ≈50 pF) on high-speed lines | Choose 1.5KE20CA only when legacy 1.5 kW surge standards apply or when extended single-pulse energy handling is mandatory |
Compared with SMBJ20CA and 1.5KE20CA, P6KE20C-E3/73 delivers optimal balance of proven through-hole manufacturability, AEC-Q101 qualification, and precise 600 W surge rating - making it the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, high-reliability automotive and industrial designs requiring drop-in replacement capability and minimal layout change.
Availability
P6KE20C-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor interfaces, industrial PLC I/O modules, telecom line protection circuits, and consumer appliance power supplies requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for P6KE20C-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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P6KE series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered specifically for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in commercial and automotive-grade systems where fast response and repeatable clamping are essential.
FAQ
What does the "C" suffix in P6KE20C-E3/73 indicate?
The "C" suffix in P6KE20C-E3/73 denotes a bi-directional configuration, meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression in both polarities without polarity marking. Unlike uni-directional variants (e.g., P6KE20A), P6KE20C-E3/73 has identical VBR, VC, and IPPM characteristics in forward and reverse directions - confirmed in the Vishay datasheet section "DEVICES FOR BI-DIRECTION APPLICATIONS" and electrical table row "P6KE20CA".
Is P6KE20C-E3/73 AEC-Q101 qualified?
Yes, P6KE20C-E3/73 is AEC-Q101 qualified, as explicitly stated in the Vishay datasheet revision 18-Sep-12 under "MECHANICAL DATA" (HE3 suffix denotes AEC-Q101 qualification) and footnote (1) in the "RATINGS AND CHARACTERISTICS CURVES" section. The "E3/73" ordering code corresponds to RoHS-compliant commercial grade, but qualification status is confirmed for the P6KE20C family per Vishay's documentation.
What is the clamping voltage of P6KE20C-E3/73 at its rated peak pulse current?
The clamping voltage (VC) of P6KE20C-E3/73 is 27.7 V at 21.7 A peak pulse current with a 10/1000 μs waveform, as specified in the "ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS" table under row "P6KE20CA". This value represents the maximum voltage imposed on the protected circuit during a standardized surge event and is critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Can P6KE20C-E3/73 be used in place of P6KE20A?
No, P6KE20C-E3/73 cannot be used as a direct functional replacement for P6KE20A because they differ fundamentally in polarity: P6KE20A is uni-directional (cathode-banded, asymmetric conduction), while P6KE20C-E3/73 is bi-directional (no marking, symmetrical behavior). Substituting one for the other risks incorrect circuit operation or failure to suppress reverse-polarity transients - always verify polarity alignment in schematic and layout before replacement.
What is the thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) for P6KE20C-E3/73?
The thermal resistance from junction to lead (RθJL) for P6KE20C-E3/73 is 20 °C/W, as published in the "THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS" table of the Vishay datasheet. This parameter governs temperature rise at the semiconductor junction during pulsed operation and is measured with leads held at 75 °C - essential for calculating safe surge repetition rates and verifying thermal margin in high-ambient applications.
P6KE20C-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):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 18V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 29.1V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 20.6A
- 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)
P6KE20C-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE20C-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE20C-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 P6KE20C-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE20C-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 P6KE20C-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE20C-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE20C-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE20C-E3/73?
P6KE20C-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE20C-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 P6KE20C-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE20C-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE20C-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE20C-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE20C-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 P6KE20C-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE20C-E3/73?
All P6KE20C-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE20C-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 P6KE20C-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE20C-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE20C-E3/73 Tags
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