onsemi P6KE6.8CARL

Overview

P6KE6.8CARL from ON Semiconductor is a bidirectional 600 W transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode in axial-leaded Surmetic−40 package, with 5.8 V working peak reverse voltage (VRWM), 10.5 V clamping voltage at 57 A peak pulse current (IPP), and <1 ns response time. It protects sensitive electronics in power supplies, medical equipment, and industrial controls against ESD and lightning-induced surges.

For engineers reviewing the P6KE6.8CARL datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include VRWM ≥ circuit operating voltage, clamping voltage margin below IC absolute maximum ratings, UL 497B recognition for isolated loop protection, and axial lead thermal derating above 75°C.

Technical Context

The P6KE6.8CARL operates as a bidirectional Zener-based TVS, triggering symmetrically above ±6.8 V breakdown (VBR min/max: 6.45–7.14 V @ 10 mA). Its low zener impedance and fast turn-on (<1 ns) enable effective clamping of sub-microsecond transients without significant overshoot when mounted with minimal lead length.

It delivers 600 W nonrepetitive peak power at 1 ms pulse width (per Figure 3 waveform), with thermal resistance junction-to-lead (R_JL) of 20 °C/W and steady-state power dissipation of 5 W at TL ≤ 75°C. Derating applies linearly above 75°C and per duty cycle per Figures 2 and 5.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Axial-leaded Surmetic−40 (Case 17), void-free thermosetting plastic body, corrosion-resistant leads, solderable at 230°C for 10 s at 1/16″ from case. Polarity marked with cathode band but functionally bidirectional - no anode/cathode assignment required in circuit.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SMBJ6.8CA and 1.5KE6.8CA, the P6KE6.8CARL offers optimal balance of axial-mount compatibility, UL 497B certification, and verified 600 W/1 ms surge handling - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, safety-compliant industrial and medical through-hole designs.

Availability

P6KE6.8CARL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, medical device interfaces, communication line protection, and process control systems requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for P6KE6.8CARL 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

ON Semiconductor (now part of onsemi) is a global semiconductor supplier specializing in energy-efficient power, analog, sensing, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and consumer markets.

The P6KE6.8CARL belongs to the P6KExxCA series of axial-leaded transient voltage suppressors designed specifically for high-reliability, UL-recognized surge protection in safety-critical and high-surge-exposure applications.

FAQ

What is the clamping voltage of the P6KE6.8CARL and how does it relate to circuit protection?

The P6KE6.8CARL has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 10.5 V at 57 A peak pulse current (IPP). This means that during a 600 W transient event, the voltage across the protected line will not exceed 10.5 V - critical for ensuring downstream ICs with 12 V or 15 V absolute maximum ratings remain within safe operating limits. The clamping occurs rapidly (<1 ns), minimizing overshoot when layout best practices (short leads, close placement) are followed. This VC value is measured per the standardized 1 ms pulse waveform in Figure 3 of the datasheet.

Is the P6KE6.8CARL unidirectional or bidirectional, and how does that affect its use in circuit design?

The P6KE6.8CARL is a bidirectional TVS diode, indicated by the "CA" suffix. Its breakdown and clamping occur symmetrically for both positive and negative voltage transients - meaning it protects AC lines, differential signals (e.g., RS-485), and floating nodes without requiring polarity-aware placement. Although marked with a cathode band, this band has no electrical polarity significance per datasheet Note 3; both leads serve identically as transient current paths. This eliminates need for dual-diode configurations or polarity verification during assembly.

Does the P6KE6.8CARL have UL certification, and what does that mean for end-equipment compliance?

Yes, the P6KE6.8CARL carries UL 497B recognition (File #E116110, category QVGV2) for protector applications. This certification validates its performance in isolated loop circuits - including passing strike voltage breakdown, endurance conditioning, dielectric withstand, and discharge tests. For end-equipment designers, UL 497B compliance supports meeting safety standards like IEC 62368-1 and IEC 60601-1, particularly in medical and telecom systems where isolation barrier integrity is mandatory.

How does thermal derating work for the P6KE6.8CARL in continuous operation?

The P6KE6.8CARL is rated for 5 W steady-state power dissipation at lead temperature (TL) ≤ 75°C, with linear derating above that point (50 mW/°C). Its junction-to-lead thermal resistance is 20 °C/W. Unlike peak pulse ratings, continuous power handling depends entirely on lead temperature - not ambient - so heatsinking via PCB copper or chassis contact is essential. Figure 4 shows the derating curve: at TL = 100°C, allowable PD drops to 3.75 W. This derating must be applied in applications with repetitive surges or elevated ambient temperatures.

What is the difference between P6KE6.8CARL and P6KE6.8CA, and why does the "RL" suffix matter?

The "RL" suffix in P6KE6.8CARL indicates tape-and-reel packaging: 4,000 units per reel, optimized for automated SMT placement despite its axial-leaded form factor. Mechanically and electrically, P6KE6.8CARL is identical to P6KE6.8CA (1,000 units/box). The RL variant enables high-volume manufacturing throughput while retaining the same Surmetic−40 axial package, UL 497B certification, and full electrical specifications - including 600 W peak power, 5.8 V VRWM, and 10.5 V VC. No design or layout changes are needed when switching between CA and CARL variants.