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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE6.8-E3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE6.8-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE6.8-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 5.5VWM 10.8VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,389
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Product details
Overview
P6KE6.8-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection of DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 6.8 V breakdown voltage (VBR), 600 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and clamps transients to ≤10.5 V at 57.1 A, making it suitable for safeguarding microcontrollers, MOSFET gate drivers, and sensor interfaces in industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE6.8-E3/73 datasheet, P6KE6.8-E3/73 pinout, P6KE6.8-E3/73 application, or P6KE6.8-E3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include its DO-15 package compatibility, 5.8 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 1000 µA max reverse leakage at VWM, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive-grade reliability validation.
Technical Context
This device operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, delivering sub-nanosecond response to ESD and lightning-induced surges. Its unidirectional polarity uses a cathode band marking and exhibits low incremental surge resistance (<0.1 Ω typical) and thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W) to sustain repetitive 600 W pulses at 0.01% duty cycle.
Clamping performance is defined by VC = 10.5 V at IPPM = 57.1 A (10/1000 µs), with VF = 3.5 V at 50 A forward surge - critical for minimizing voltage overshoot during inductive load switching in 5–12 V systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 6.45 V / 7.14 V at 10 mA test current - ensures reliable avalanche conduction onset within ±5% tolerance of nominal 6.8 V rating |
| VWM | 5.8 V - maximum continuous working voltage before leakage exceeds 1000 µA; sets safe DC rail margin for 5 V systems |
| VC @ IPPM | 10.5 V at 57.1 A - clamping voltage under full 600 W transient; limits protected IC stress to <11 V during worst-case surge |
| IPPM | 57.1 A - peak pulse current capability with 10/1000 µs waveform; supports IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surge immunity |
| PPPM | 600 W - peak pulse power handling; enables single-device protection for 12 V automotive power inputs without derating |
| TJ max | 175 °C - maximum junction temperature; allows operation in under-hood environments and high-ambient industrial enclosures |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - industry-standard axial leaded package with 0.300" lead spacing; compatible with legacy through-hole assembly |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) molded epoxy package with matte tin-plated leads; cathode identified by color band on body end. Leads conform to J-STD-002 solderability and JESD 201 Class 1A whisker resistance (E3 suffix).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward current entry / surge return path | Connected to ground or low-impedance return plane; carries full transient current during clamping |
| Cathode | Avalanche conduction node / protected line connection | Connected to protected line (e.g., +5 V rail); initiates breakdown when voltage exceeds VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Enables stable, repeatable avalanche characteristics over 1000+ surge events without parameter drift |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports single-device protection against IEC 61000-4-5 surge tests up to 4 kV without parallel staging |
| AEC-Q101 qualified (HE3 variant) | Validated for automotive electronics per stress test requirements including HTOL, TCT, and ESD HBM ≥2 kV |
| UL 94 V-0 compliant molding | Prevents flame propagation during catastrophic failure, meeting safety standards for enclosed industrial equipment |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.55) | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to downstream ICs - critical for 3.3 V/5 V logic interfacing with 12 V supply domains |
Applications
| Industrial Power Input Protection | Automotive Sensor Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 24 V DC input stage of PLC I/O module exposed to relay coil flyback and load dump transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary shunt clamp on main power rail; absorbs >95% of 600 W surge energy before reaching downstream DC/DC converter. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 5 V LDO regulators by limiting rail voltage to ≤10.5 V during 50 A transients. |
Use Scenario: CAN bus physical layer interface in engine control unit subjected to ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS placed between CAN_H and ground; suppresses negative-going transients induced by alternator load dump. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity by clamping below −12 V while preserving <100 ps response time required for 1 Mbps CAN FD operation. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD Protection | Telecom Line Card Surge Suppression |
|
Use Scenario: VBUS line of USB 2.0 host port in set-top box facing contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2 ±15 kV. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense against electrostatic discharge; placed upstream of USB switch IC and polyfuse. Use Value: Limits VBUS overshoot to <11 V during 30 A ESD event, preventing gate oxide rupture in 5 V tolerant USB transceivers. |
Use Scenario: Tip/ring line interface of VoIP gateway connected to PSTN with lightning-induced surges up to 1 kV. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Series-connected TVS pair (P6KE6.8-E3/73 + P6KE6.8CA) providing bidirectional clamping on analog telephony lines. Use Value: Achieves <100 ns response and <12 V clamping across both polarities, meeting GR-1089-CORE Level 3 telecom surge immunity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ6.8A-T3 | Same VBR (6.45–7.14 V), but SMC package (higher IPPM = 64.9 A, lower RθJA = 35 °C/W) | Requires surface-mount layout; better suited for high-density PCBs with limited board space | Select SMBJ6.8A-T3 when upgrading from through-hole to SMT and requiring higher surge margin or improved thermal dissipation |
| 1.5KE6.8A | Same DO-15 package and VBR, but 1500 W PPPM rating (IPPM = 143 A) and higher VC = 11.5 V | Higher clamping voltage reduces protection margin for 3.3 V logic; used where surge energy exceeds 600 W | Choose 1.5KE6.8A only when system-level testing confirms need for >600 W capability and VC ≤11.5 V remains acceptable |
Compared with SMBJ6.8A-T3 and 1.5KE6.8A, the P6KE6.8-E3/73 offers optimal balance of cost, through-hole compatibility, and 600 W surge handling for mid-tier industrial and automotive applications where PCB real estate and extreme surge levels are not primary constraints.
Availability
P6KE6.8-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power input protection, automotive sensor interface, consumer USB port ESD protection, and telecom line card surge suppression requiring stable component supply and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for P6KE6.8-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, rectifiers, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability and application-specific performance.
The P6KE series was engineered for cost-sensitive, high-volume transient suppression in commercial and automotive power systems - prioritizing robust surge handling, consistent clamping, and long-term parametric stability under thermal cycling.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE6.8-E3/73 under rated surge conditions?
The P6KE6.8-E3/73 clamps to a maximum of 10.5 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 57.1 A (10/1000 µs waveform). This value is measured per JEDEC standard test conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during a full 600 W transient event. The P6KE6.8-E3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its specified operating temperature range of −55 °C to +175 °C.
Is the P6KE6.8-E3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
The P6KE6.8-E3/73 itself is RoHS-compliant commercial-grade; however, the HE3-suffixed variant (P6KE6.8AHE3/73) is AEC-Q101 qualified and approved for automotive use. For automotive designs, engineers must specify the HE3 version to ensure compliance with stress testing requirements including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and ESD robustness. The P6KE6.8-E3/73 is not certified for automotive deployment.
How does the P6KE6.8-E3/73 differ from bi-directional TVS diodes like P6KE6.8CA?
The P6KE6.8-E3/73 is unidirectional and features a cathode band marking, intended for DC line protection where polarity is fixed (e.g., +5 V rail to ground). In contrast, P6KE6.8CA is bi-directional with no polarity marking and symmetric clamping in both directions - suitable for AC lines or differential signals like RS-485. The P6KE6.8-E3/73 has lower leakage at VWM (1000 µA vs. 2000 µA for CA types ≤10 V), improving efficiency in low-power standby circuits.
What is the thermal resistance and power derating behavior of the P6KE6.8-E3/73?
The P6KE6.8-E3/73 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W and junction-to-ambient (RθJA) of 75 °C/W. Its 5.0 W steady-state power dissipation is rated at TL = 75 °C on an infinite heatsink; above 25 °C ambient, power must be linearly derated per Figure 2 in the datasheet - e.g., at 75 °C ambient, derated power drops to ~3.5 W. The P6KE6.8-E3/73 relies on lead conduction for heat transfer, not PCB copper area.
Can the P6KE6.8-E3/73 be used in parallel for higher surge current handling?
No - the P6KE6.8-E3/73 is not recommended for parallel operation due to mismatch in VBR tolerance (±5%) and dynamic impedance, which causes uneven current sharing and potential thermal runaway. For higher surge capability, select a single higher-rated device such as 1.5KE6.8A (1500 W) or SMBJ6.8A (600 W in SMC package with better thermal coupling). The P6KE6.8-E3/73 is designed for standalone use in its specified 600 W rating.
P6KE6.8-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:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 6.12V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 10.8V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 55.6A
- 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)
P6KE6.8-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE6.8-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE6.8-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 P6KE6.8-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE6.8-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 P6KE6.8-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE6.8-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE6.8-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE6.8-E3/73?
P6KE6.8-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE6.8-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 P6KE6.8-E3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE6.8-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE6.8-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE6.8-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE6.8-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 P6KE6.8-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE6.8-E3/73?
All P6KE6.8-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE6.8-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 P6KE6.8-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE6.8-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE6.8-E3/73 Tags
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