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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE20-E3/54
- Part No.:
- P6KE20-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE20-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 16.2VWM 29.1VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:5,948
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Product details
Overview
P6KE20-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 19.0 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 17.1 V standoff voltage (VWM), 27.7 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 21.7 A peak pulse current, 600 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and DO-204AC (DO-15) package - used to safeguard MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces against ESD and inductive switching transients in automotive and industrial control systems.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE20-E3/54 datasheet, P6KE20-E3/54 pinout, P6KE20-E3/54 application, or P6KE20-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping performance under 10/1000 µs surge, thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), unidirectional polarity marking, RoHS-compliant matte tin plating, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive-grade reliability.
Technical Context
The P6KE20-E3/54 operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, delivering fast response (<1 ns) to transient events by entering avalanche conduction when reverse voltage exceeds VBR. Its clamping behavior is defined at IPPM = 21.7 A (10/1000 µs waveform), limiting voltage to ≤27.7 V while dissipating up to 600 W peak pulse power.
Thermally, it supports operation from –55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature, with 20 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance enabling effective heat transfer to PCB copper or leads. The device is rated for 100 A non-repetitive forward surge current (8.3 ms half-sine) and exhibits 3.5 V max forward voltage at 50 A - critical for low-loss crowbar or clamp configurations.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM Standoff Voltage | 17.1 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before significant leakage; sets upper limit for protected circuit DC bias |
| VBR Breakdown Voltage | 19.0–21.0 V at 1.0 mA - guaranteed avalanche initiation range; ensures predictable turn-on during transients |
| VC Clamping Voltage | 27.7 V at 21.7 A (10/1000 µs) - peak voltage seen by downstream components during worst-case surge |
| PPPM Peak Pulse Power | 600 W - energy-handling capacity for standardized lightning/inductive-spike waveforms without failure |
| IFSM Surge Current | 100 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - withstands high-current inrush events like motor commutation or relay bounce |
| RθJL Thermal Resistance | 20 °C/W - enables reliable power dissipation into PCB traces or leads without external heatsink |
| Leakage Current ID | 1.0 µA at VWM - negligible standby power loss and minimal interference on high-impedance signal paths |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case with UL 94 V-0 flammability rating; cathode indicated by color band on body; matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 solderability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current entry / Reverse surge return path | Connected to system ground or low-side reference; completes clamping loop during transient |
| Cathode | Avalanche conduction terminal / High-side connection point | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail or sensor input); color-banded end defines polarity |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enables stable, repeatable avalanche characteristics over lifetime and temperature; eliminates surface degradation risks |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surge immunity (4 kV line-earth) in compact DO-15 footprint |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (E3 suffix variant) | Validated for automotive under-hood applications including engine control units and body electronics |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.42) | Minimizes overvoltage stress on downstream ICs compared to higher-ratio suppressors |
| RoHS-compliant matte tin plating | Ensures reliable solder joint formation per JESD 22-B102 and whisker resistance per JESD 201 Class 1A |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 12 V battery-fed microcontroller power supply exposed to load dump (ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a) and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary shunt TVS placed between VIN and GND to clamp surges before LDO regulator input. Use Value: Limits transient voltage to ≤27.7 V, preventing damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic supplies and ensuring system reset integrity. |
Use Scenario: Analog output of pressure sensor connected to PLC analog input over 10 m cable in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS on signal line (cathode to signal, anode to GND) suppressing ESD and cable-coupled noise. Use Value: Sub-1 ns response prevents latch-up in precision ADC front-end; 1.0 µA leakage avoids gain error in high-Z instrumentation amplifiers. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD Clamp | DC Motor Driver Flyback Suppression |
Use Scenario: VBUS line of USB 2.0 port in smart speaker subjected to ±8 kV contact ESD (IEC 61000-4-2). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance TVS (CJ < 100 pF typical) placed directly at connector to divert ESD current to chassis ground. Use Value: Clamps VBUS to ≤27.7 V within nanoseconds, protecting USB transceiver PHY without signal integrity degradation. |
Use Scenario: Freewheeling path across brushed DC motor terminals driven by H-bridge in robotic actuator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS (anode to motor negative, cathode to positive) absorbing inductive kickback during PWM turn-off. Use Value: Dissipates 600 W peak energy without degradation, extending MOSFET lifetime and eliminating need for snubber RC networks. |
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 VWM (17.1 V) and VC (32.4 V), but lower PPPM = 400 W and SMA package (surface-mount) | Better suited for space-constrained PCB layouts; less robust for high-energy 10/1000 µs surges | Select SMAJ20A only if board area is critical and surge threat level is ≤400 W |
| 1.5KE20A | Higher PPPM = 1500 W, same DO-15 package, but larger physical size (DO-201AD) and 33.2 V VC | Used where higher surge margin is required (e.g., telecom central office equipment), but increases board footprint | Choose 1.5KE20A when system-level surge testing exceeds 600 W requirements |
Compared with SMAJ20A and 1.5KE20A, P6KE20-E3/54 delivers optimal balance of 600 W surge capability, DO-15 through-hole compatibility, and automotive qualification - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, medium-energy protection in production automotive and industrial modules.
Availability
P6KE20-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, industrial PLC analog inputs, consumer USB power ports, and DC motor driver circuits requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE20-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, MOSFETs, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P6KE series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS family, engineered for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in commercial and automotive environments where rapid clamping and thermal stability are essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE20-E3/54 under standard test conditions?
The P6KE20-E3/54 has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 27.7 V when subjected to a 10/1000 µs waveform at IPPM = 21.7 A. This value is measured per JEDEC standards and represents the highest voltage imposed on the protected circuit during a defined surge event - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The P6KE20-E3/54 achieves this with a clamping ratio of approximately 1.42 relative to its nominal breakdown voltage.
Is the P6KE20-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE20-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified per the Vishay datasheet (Document Number 88369, Revision 18-Sep-12), confirming its suitability for automotive electronic systems including engine control, body electronics, and infotainment power rails. Its operating junction temperature range (–55 °C to +175 °C), robust surge handling, and RoHS-compliant matte tin plating meet stringent automotive reliability requirements - making P6KE20-E3/54 appropriate for under-hood and cabin-mounted modules.
How does the P6KE20-E3/54 differ from bi-directional TVS diodes like P6KE20CA?
The P6KE20-E3/54 is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity identification, allowing it to conduct only in reverse avalanche mode while blocking forward current above ~3.5 V. In contrast, P6KE20CA is bi-directional with no polarity marking and symmetrical clamping in both directions - used where AC signals or bidirectional data lines require protection. The P6KE20-E3/54 is therefore selected for DC power rail protection, whereas P6KE20CA suits RS-485 or audio line applications.
What is the thermal resistance specification for the P6KE20-E3/54, and why does it matter?
The P6KE20-E3/54 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W, meaning each watt dissipated raises the junction temperature 20 °C above lead temperature. This parameter is vital for predicting safe operating limits during repetitive surge events or elevated ambient temperatures. With RθJL = 20 °C/W and TJ(max) = 175 °C, the P6KE20-E3/54 can sustain short-duration 600 W pulses without exceeding thermal limits when leads are adequately copper-poured or heatsinked.
Can the P6KE20-E3/54 be used in place of the older P6KE20A part?
Yes, the P6KE20-E3/54 is a direct replacement for P6KE20A, retaining identical electrical specifications (VWM, VBR, VC, PPPM) and mechanical dimensions (DO-204AC). The "E3/54" suffix indicates RoHS compliance, matte tin plating, and packaging in 13″ paper tape and reel (4000 pcs/reel), whereas legacy P6KE20A may lack AEC-Q101 qualification or modern plating. No PCB layout changes are needed - P6KE20-E3/54 maintains full functional and mechanical compatibility with P6KE20A.
P6KE20-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:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- 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)
P6KE20-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE20-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE20-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 P6KE20-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE20-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 P6KE20-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE20-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE20-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE20-E3/54?
P6KE20-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE20-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 P6KE20-E3/54?
For technical support, including P6KE20-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE20-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE20-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE20-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 P6KE20-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE20-E3/54?
All P6KE20-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE20-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 P6KE20-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE20-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE20-E3/54 Tags
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