3KP12CA-B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3KP12CA-B is a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose transient voltage protection applications. This bidirectional Zener diode features a 12V reverse standoff voltage with a 19.9V maximum clamping voltage and 150.8A peak pulse current capability. The component is housed in a P600 axial through-hole package and operates across a temperature range of -55°C to 175°C.

The 3KP12CA-B is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to ensure continued availability for new designs, maintenance applications, and production continuity where this component is specified.

Substiute Parts

3KP12CA-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 10603KP12CA-B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP12CA-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 9655KP12CA-B Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3KP12CA-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 7493KP12CA-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the 3KP12CA-B are identified based on electrical and mechanical compatibility within the TVS diode category. The critical parameters determining substitution eligibility are:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 12V
• Voltage - Breakdown (Min): 13.3V
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 19.9V
• Bidirectional Channels: 1
• Operating Temperature: -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package / Case: Axial configuration

Substitute parts must maintain identical voltage specifications and temperature operating range to ensure functional equivalence in circuit protection applications. Package variations within axial through-hole configurations are permissible where mechanical fit and lead spacing are compatible with the application.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

5KP12CA-B (Littelfuse Inc.) is the primary substitute for the obsolete 3KP12CA-B. Both components are manufactured by Littelfuse Inc. and maintain identical voltage specifications (12V reverse standoff, 13.3V breakdown minimum, 19.9V clamping maximum). The 5KP12CA-B is currently in active production status and carries ROHS3 compliance certification. The 5KP12CA-B features higher peak pulse current (256.3A versus 150.8A) and greater peak pulse power (5000W versus 3000W), providing enhanced transient suppression capability within the same voltage class and package footprint (P600, Axial). This component is suitable for direct replacement in applications where the increased current and power ratings do not create thermal or circuit design conflicts.

3KP12CA-TP (Micro Commercial Co) is an alternative substitute manufactured by Micro Commercial Co. This component maintains identical electrical specifications to the original 3KP12CA-B (150.8A peak pulse current, 3000W peak pulse power, 12V reverse standoff voltage, 19.9V clamping voltage). The 3KP12CA-TP is currently in active production status. The primary difference is the package variant: R-6 axial configuration versus the original P600 axial configuration. Mechanical compatibility must be verified for the specific application before selection.

Both substitute parts maintain the required operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C) and through-hole mounting configuration necessary for functional equivalence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5KP12CA-B replace the 3KP12CA-B in all applications?

A: The 5KP12CA-B maintains identical voltage specifications and operating temperature range as the 3KP12CA-B. The higher peak pulse current (256.3A) and power rating (5000W) provide equivalent or superior transient suppression performance. Verification is required only if the application circuit includes current-limiting resistors or other components specifically designed around the 150.8A specification of the original part.

Q: What is the difference between the P600 and R-6 packages?

A: Both P600 and R-6 are axial through-hole package configurations for TVS diodes. The primary difference is the physical package envelope and lead spacing. Mechanical compatibility with the printed circuit board layout must be confirmed before selecting the 3KP12CA-TP (R-6 package) as a substitute.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS compliant?

A: The 5KP12CA-B is ROHS3 compliant. The 3KP12CA-TP RoHS status is not specified in the available data. Compliance verification with your specific regulatory requirements is recommended before final component selection.

Q: Why does the 5KP12CA-B have higher current and power ratings?

A: The 5KP12CA-B belongs to the 5KP series, which is designed for higher transient energy absorption compared to the 3KP series. Both maintain the same voltage protection levels (12V reverse standoff, 19.9V clamping) but differ in current handling capacity. The 5KP series provides enhanced protection margin for applications subject to higher transient stress.

Q: Can I use the 3KP12CA-TP as a direct drop-in replacement?

A: The 3KP12CA-TP is electrically equivalent to the 3KP12CA-B with identical voltage and current specifications. Physical compatibility depends on the R-6 package fitting the original P600 footprint on your circuit board. Verify lead spacing and package dimensions against your PCB layout before implementation.