0603-3N9K Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The API Delevan Inc. 0603-3N9K is a 3.9 nH unshielded drum core wirewound inductor rated for 700 mA at 80 mOhm maximum DC resistance. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing design support and component procurement. Active equivalent models from current manufacturers provide the same core inductance value with comparable electrical performance characteristics.

Substiute Parts

0603-3N9K

API Delevan Inc.In Stock: 9030603-3N9K Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CM160808-3N9DL

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 913CM160808-3N9DL Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

CW160808-3N9K

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1240CW160808-3N9K Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 0603-3N9K is determined by the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Primary Matching Criteria:

• Inductance value: 3.9 nH
• Current rating: 700 mA minimum
• DC resistance: 80 mOhm maximum
• Core type: Drum core wirewound construction
• Shielding: Unshielded
• Mounting: Surface mount

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 125°C
• Package form factor and physical dimensions
• Self-resonant frequency: 6 GHz
• RoHS and REACH compliance status

The two identified equivalents satisfy the inductance, current rating, and DC resistance requirements while maintaining unshielded drum core construction. Package dimensional variations exist but remain compatible with 0603 (1608 metric) PCB footprints.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CW160808-3N9K (Bourns Inc.) is the primary equivalent for direct substitution of the 0603-3N9K. This part matches the critical electrical specifications: 3.9 nH inductance, 700 mA current rating, and 80 mOhm DC resistance. The CW160808-3N9K maintains the same operating temperature range (-40°C to 125°C) and achieves ROHS3 compliance, enabling deployment in modern supply chains. Active product status ensures ongoing availability and manufacturing support.

CM160808-3N9DL (Bourns Inc.) provides an alternative where circuit requirements permit reduced current handling. This variant shares the 3.9 nH inductance and unshielded construction but operates at 450 mA maximum current and exhibits 150 mOhm DC resistance. The operating temperature ceiling of 100°C represents a limitation relative to the original specification. ROHS3 compliance is maintained.

Both Bourns parts feature standardized 0603 (1608 metric) packaging, enabling consistent PCB integration across production designs. The nonstandard package of the original API Delevan part does not preclude mechanical compatibility with standard 0603 footprints on redesigned assemblies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the CW160808-3N9K directly replace the 0603-3N9K without circuit modifications?

A: Yes, provided your application operates within the shared specifications: 3.9 nH inductance, 700 mA maximum current, and 80 mOhm DC resistance. Both parts match the original operating temperature range and self-resonant frequency. Verification of PCB footprint compatibility with the updated package dimensions (1.65 mm L × 1.05 mm W) is required.

Q: Why does the CM160808-3N9DL have higher DC resistance?

A: The CM160808-3N9DL achieves tighter inductance tolerance (±0.3 nH versus ±10%) through different winding geometry, resulting in 150 mOhm DC resistance versus the 80 mOhm specification. This trade-off is acceptable only where circuit current demands do not exceed 450 mA.

Q: Is the aluminum core material of the Bourns parts equivalent to the ceramic core of the API Delevan part?

A: Both ceramic and alumina cores support unshielded drum core wirewound construction at 3.9 nH inductance. Material differences do not affect inductance value or core classification. Frequency response characteristics remain compatible within the tested parameters provided.

Q: Does the nonstandard package of the 0603-3N9K create substitution challenges?

A: The nonstandard package dimensions (1.80 mm L × 1.14 mm W) differ from standard 0603 (1.60 mm L × 0.80 mm W) specifications. However, both the CW160808-3N9K and CM160808-3N9DL are classified as 0603 (1608 metric) components, allowing footprint reuse on redesigned PCB layouts. Physical clearance validation is recommended during design transition.

Q: What is the compliance advantage of transitioning to the Bourns equivalents?

A: Both CW160808-3N9K and CM160808-3N9DL achieve ROHS3 and REACH compliance, whereas the original 0603-3N9K is non-compliant. This transition enables unrestricted procurement and deployment in regulated markets and supply chains with environmental compliance requirements.