Obsolete — sourcing through surplus channels
Vishay lists the 1.5KE6.8A/54 as Obsolete.
1500W peak pulse, 5.8V standoff — what the ratings mean
The 5.8V reverse standoff voltage is the maximum DC rail voltage the part protects without conducting — a 5V or 3.3V supply rail sits comfortably below this threshold. Clamping starts at 6.45V minimum breakdown and hard-clamps at 10.5V maximum, limiting the transient to a level most downstream ICs survive. Peak pulse current is 143A — the 1500W rating means this part absorbs substantial surge energy in a small axial package.
Through-hole DO-201 package — board integration
The DO-201AA (DO-27) axial leaded package is a through-hole form factor rated for the 1500W pulse. The axial leads carry the surge current into the PCB; the body dissipates heat through the leads and the surrounding air — no heatsink required for transient duty. This is not a power-line protection device — it is intended for DC rail and signal-line transient suppression where the 5.8V standoff fits.