1500W bidirectional TVS in a through-hole axial package
The 1.5KE12CA-T: Its 10.2V reverse standoff voltage (typ) means it sits across a 12V rail without conducting during normal operation, clamping transients at 16.7V max to protect downstream silicon. This is a single-channel bidirectional device — one part protects both polarities, simplifying BOM count on AC-coupled or bipolar signal lines. The 90A peak pulse current rating (Ipp at 10/1000µs) gives the energy-handling margin for industrial surge environments.
Clamping voltage and breakdown window
Minimum breakdown voltage is 11.4V, with the clamping ceiling at 16.7V max at the rated Ipp. The 5.3V window between standoff and clamp means the protected rail sees a controlled overvoltage before the TVS fully conducts — a 12V bus with 10% tolerance stays within the safe operating area of most downstream regulators and ASICs. The DO-201AA axial package (also known as DO-27) is a through-hole form factor that handles the thermal pulse of a 1500W surge without delamination, provided the lead length is kept short to minimize inductive overshoot.
Obsolete — sourcing through surplus and last-time-buy channels
Diodes Incorporated lists the 1.5KE12CA-T as obsolete. Sourcing relies on independent distribution and surplus inventory — sealed reels with consistent date-codes are the preferred procurement path to avoid repackaged or counterfeit stock. The Tape & Reel packaging (TR suffix) indicates factory reel quantities; MOQ typically follows the original reel count. Availability and pricing are confirmed at RFQ against the specific BOM quantity and date-code requirements.