Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation P6KE400CA

Overview

P6KE400CA from Taiwan Semiconductor is a bidirectional 600W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for high-energy surge protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 400V nominal standoff voltage (VWM = 324V), 440V maximum breakdown voltage (VBR), and clamps transients to ≤574V at 1.0A peak pulse current - enabling robust EFT/ESD immunity in industrial power supplies and automotive control modules.

For engineers reviewing the P6KE400CA datasheet, P6KE400CA pinout, P6KE400CA application, or P6KE400CA equivalent, key selection criteria include its DO-204AC (DO-15) package compatibility, bidirectional clamping symmetry, 175°C junction rating, and AEC-Q101 qualification - critical for under-hood electronics, LED driver protection, and IEC 61000-4-4/5-compliant designs.

Technical Context

The P6KE400CA operates as a silicon avalanche diode with symmetrical bidirectional clamping behavior, delivering consistent VBR min/max (360V–440V) and VC (≤574V) in both polarities. Its low dynamic impedance and sub-nanosecond response (<5.0ns) ensure fast suppression of fast-rising transients such as lightning-induced surges or inductive switching spikes.

Rated for 600W non-repetitive peak pulse power (10/1000μs waveform), it sustains 1.0A IPP at TA = 25°C with derating above 25°C per Fig.2. Junction temperature range is –55°C to +175°C, and leakage current remains ≤1μA at 324V standoff - supporting stable operation in high-temperature environments without thermal runaway.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, epoxy-molded case meeting UL 94V-0 flammability rating. Cathode band marking applies only to unidirectional variants; P6KE400CA is bidirectional and marked with part number and date code (e.g., "400CA YWW").

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.

Compared with Littelfuse SMAJ400A and ON Semi 1.5KE400CA, the P6KE400CA delivers optimal balance of 600W surge capacity, tight 360–440V VBR tolerance, and DO-15 compatibility - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive and industrial designs requiring AEC-Q101 validation.

Availability

P6KE400CA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply protection, automotive body control modules, LED streetlight drivers, and motor drive control signal conditioning requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 compliance.

Supply support for P6KE400CA 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 semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete power devices, TVS diodes, and rectifiers - with global distribution and AEC-Q101 certification capabilities.

The P6KE series targets high-reliability transient suppression in automotive, industrial, and lighting applications - engineered for robustness under thermal cycling, high humidity, and repetitive surge stress.

FAQ

What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE400CA under standard test conditions?

The P6KE400CA has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 574 V when subjected to a 1.0 A peak pulse current (IPP) with a 10/1000 μs waveform at 25°C ambient. This value is measured across both terminals during bidirectional conduction and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during surge events. The P6KE400CA maintains this clamping performance consistently across its specified junction temperature range.

Is the P6KE400CA suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, the P6KE400CA is AEC-Q101 qualified (as indicated by the "H" suffix variant P6KE400CAH), validating its reliability for automotive under-hood and chassis applications. It meets stringent requirements for temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and surge endurance - making it appropriate for engine control units, body electronics, and ADAS power domains where transient immunity is critical. The P6KE400CA's 175°C TJ rating further supports operation in high-ambient environments.

How does the bidirectional configuration of the P6KE400CA affect PCB layout?

The P6KE400CA's bidirectional design eliminates polarity sensitivity - either lead can connect to line or return without functional impact. This simplifies PCB layout by removing orientation constraints, reducing assembly errors, and enabling symmetric placement on differential or AC-coupled nodes. Unlike unidirectional TVS diodes, the P6KE400CA does not require cathode band alignment, and its DO-204AC (DO-15) footprint remains identical regardless of mounting direction.

What is the leakage current specification for the P6KE400CA at its rated standoff voltage?

The P6KE400CA exhibits a maximum reverse leakage current (IR) of 1 μA when biased at its rated standoff voltage of 324 V (VWM) and tested at 25°C. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal power loss in standby mode and prevents unintended loading of high-impedance sensor or reference circuits. The P6KE400CA maintains this specification across its full operating temperature range, supporting stable performance in battery-powered or energy-harvesting systems.

Can the P6KE400CA be used in parallel for higher surge current handling?

No - the P6KE400CA is not recommended for parallel connection due to inherent parameter variation (e.g., VBR tolerance of 360–440 V) that causes uneven current sharing during surges. Mismatched avalanche turn-on can result in thermal runaway of the lower-VBR unit. For higher energy handling, select a single higher-rated device (e.g., 1.5KE400CA) or implement staged protection with upstream MOVs. The P6KE400CA is optimized for standalone 600W transient suppression in its native DO-15 package.