Obsolete automotive TVS — what it means for your BOM
The 1.5KE160HE3/73 is an obsolete TransZorb® TVS from Vishay, part of the automotive AEC-Q101 series.
Key ratings and what they drive
The 1500W peak pulse rating at 10/1000 µs means this part can absorb a 6.5A surge pulse without failing — enough for load-dump or inductive kickback on a 130V nominal rail. Breakdown voltage is guaranteed at 144V min, clamping at 230V max — the margin between standoff and breakdown gives the rail some headroom before the TVS starts conducting. AEC-Q101 qualification means it passed automotive stress tests (temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, ESD) and is suitable for under-hood or chassis-mounted electronics.
Sourcing an obsolete part
Vishay has marked the 1.5KE160HE3/73 as obsolete. No official successor is listed.