3FS-536 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3FS-536 is a laminated core power transformer manufactured by Tamura, rated for 12VA with a single primary winding and dual secondary windings. The transformer operates at 115V primary input with configurable secondary outputs of 18V (parallel) or 36V (series), delivering maximum currents of 700mA (parallel) or 350mA (series) respectively. This through-hole mounted component is designed for PC pin termination and maintains 2500Vrms isolation voltage. The part is currently in active production status with RoHS compliance and MSL 1 rating, indicating unlimited moisture sensitivity tolerance. Equivalent substitute parts are identified to support procurement flexibility, inventory management, and supply chain continuity.

Substiute Parts

3FS-536

TamuraIn Stock: 6843FS-536 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

ST-5-36

Signal TransformerIn Stock: 1141ST-5-36 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 3FS-536 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Specifications:

• Primary voltage: 115V
• Secondary voltage configuration: Dual winding with 18V (parallel) and 36V (series) capability
• Output current capacity: 700mA (parallel) and 350mA (series)
• Power rating: 12VA
• Isolation voltage: 2500Vrms
• Winding configuration: Single primary, dual secondary, no center tap

Mechanical & Physical Specifications:

• Core type: Laminated
• Mounting: Through hole
• Termination: PC pin
• Form factor compatibility within industry standard dimensions

Compliance & Environmental:

• RoHS compliance status
• MSL rating compatibility
• ECCN and HTSUS classification alignment

The ST-5-36 manufactured by Signal Transformer meets all specified electrical and mechanical parameters, confirming direct substitution capability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Part: 3FS-536 (Tamura)

The 3FS-536 is the original specified component with active production status. It carries RoHS compliance certification and MSL 1 rating, indicating suitability for unlimited moisture exposure environments. Current inventory of 674 pieces supports immediate procurement requirements.

Substitute Part: ST-5-36 (Signal Transformer)

The ST-5-36 provides direct electrical and mechanical equivalence to the 3FS-536. It maintains identical power delivery specifications, voltage configurations, and current ratings. The ST-5-36 carries ROHS3 compliance, which represents an enhanced RoHS standard. Physical dimensions show minor variations (47.80mm L x 39.60mm W vs. 48.50mm L x 41.52mm W; height 36.90mm vs. 38.00mm), remaining within acceptable through-hole PCB mounting tolerances. The ST-5-36 is also in active production with higher inventory availability (1056 pieces), supporting extended supply chain options.

Both parts share identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications, confirming regulatory equivalence for export and tariff purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the ST-5-36 be used as a direct replacement for the 3FS-536 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The ST-5-36 meets all electrical specifications (12VA, 115V primary, 18V/36V secondary, 700mA/350mA output) and mechanical requirements (through-hole, PC pin termination, laminated core). Physical dimensions are within acceptable PCB mounting tolerances for through-hole applications.

Q: What are the key differences between these two transformers?

A: The primary differences are manufacturer origin (Tamura vs. Signal Transformer), packaging format (tube vs. box), physical dimensions (minor variations within tolerance), and RoHS certification level (RoHS vs. ROHS3). All electrical and functional parameters are identical.

Q: Are there any compliance concerns when substituting the ST-5-36 for the 3FS-536?

A: No. Both parts carry equivalent ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8504.31.4035) classifications. The ST-5-36 carries ROHS3 compliance, which exceeds the RoHS requirement of the 3FS-536. Both parts are classified as EAR99, requiring no export license.

Q: How do the physical dimensions affect PCB layout compatibility?

A: The ST-5-36 dimensions (47.80mm L x 39.60mm W x 36.90mm H) are slightly smaller than the 3FS-536 (48.50mm L x 41.52mm W x 38.00mm H). These variations remain within standard through-hole PCB mounting tolerances and do not require layout redesign for typical applications.

Q: What is the significance of the MSL rating difference?

A: The 3FS-536 carries MSL 1 (unlimited moisture sensitivity), while the ST-5-36 lists MSL as Not Applicable. MSL 1 indicates the component has no moisture sensitivity restrictions. The ST-5-36's "Not Applicable" designation does not indicate a limitation but rather that the manufacturer does not specify an MSL rating for this product category. Both parts are suitable for standard manufacturing and storage environments.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: Selection depends on procurement priorities. The 3FS-536 is the original specification. The ST-5-36 offers higher inventory availability (1056 vs. 674 pieces) and equivalent performance, supporting supply chain flexibility. Both are active production parts suitable for new designs.

Q: Are the secondary voltage configurations identical between both parts?

A: Yes. Both transformers provide dual secondary windings with parallel configuration (18V, 700mA) and series configuration (36V, 350mA). The winding topology and electrical characteristics are equivalent.