3KP12CA Transient Voltage Suppressor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3KP12CA is a bidirectional Zener transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This component features a 12V reverse standoff voltage with a 19.9V maximum clamping voltage and 150.8A peak pulse current capability in a through-hole P600 axial package. The 3KP12CA is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of equivalent substitute components that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility for new designs and ongoing production requirements.

Substiute Parts

3KP12CA

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 11473KP12CA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP12CA

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 64385KP12CA Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3KP12CA-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 7493KP12CA-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the 3KP12CA are identified based on strict electrical and mechanical parameter matching. The primary substitution criteria are:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff: 12V (exact match required)
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 19.9V (exact match required)
• Bidirectional Channels: 1 (exact match required)
• Type: Zener (exact match required)
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C to 175°C (exact match required)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (exact match required)
• Package / Case: P600 or R-6 Axial (compatible through-hole axial packages)

Substitutes are grouped into two categories: direct electrical equivalents with identical power ratings, and higher-power variants that maintain all critical voltage parameters while offering enhanced current-handling capability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

3KP12CA-TP (Micro Commercial Co): This substitute maintains identical electrical specifications and power rating to the obsolete 3KP12CA. The component is currently in active production status, ensuring long-term availability. The R-6 axial package is mechanically compatible with through-hole PCB designs. This option is suitable for direct replacement in applications where the original 3000W power rating is sufficient and component sourcing from an alternative manufacturer is acceptable.

5KP12CA (Littelfuse Inc.): This substitute maintains all critical voltage parameters (12V standoff, 19.9V clamping) while providing enhanced peak pulse current (256.3A) and power dissipation (5000W). The component is manufactured by the original equipment supplier and maintains ROHS3 compliance. The 5KP12CA is appropriate for applications requiring higher transient energy absorption or where design margin enhancement is beneficial. The P600 package matches the original component's form factor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5KP12CA be used as a direct replacement for the 3KP12CA?

A: Yes. The 5KP12CA maintains identical voltage parameters (12V standoff, 19.9V clamping) and operating temperature range. The increased power rating (5000W vs. 3000W) and peak pulse current (256.3A vs. 150.8A) provide enhanced protection capability without compromising circuit compatibility. The P600 package is identical to the original component.

Q: What is the difference between the 3KP12CA-TP and 5KP12CA substitutes?

A: The 3KP12CA-TP is manufactured by Micro Commercial Co and provides electrical equivalence with identical power and current ratings. The 5KP12CA is manufactured by Littelfuse Inc. and offers higher power dissipation (5000W) and peak pulse current (256.3A). Both maintain the same voltage specifications and operating temperature range.

Q: Are the R-6 and P600 packages interchangeable?

A: Both R-6 and P600 are through-hole axial packages suitable for PCB mounting. The packages are mechanically compatible for through-hole applications, though physical dimensions may differ slightly. Verify PCB footprint compatibility before implementation.

Q: Does the 3KP12CA-TP maintain RoHS compliance?

A: RoHS status is not specified in the component documentation for the 3KP12CA-TP. The 5KP12CA is ROHS3 compliant. Verify compliance requirements with your procurement specifications before selection.

Q: What is the basis for substitution compatibility?

A: Substitution compatibility is determined by matching critical electrical parameters: reverse standoff voltage (12V), clamping voltage (19.9V), bidirectional channel configuration (1), Zener type, operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C), and through-hole axial mounting. All substitute parts meet these criteria.