Littelfuse 3KP15 Transient Voltage Suppressor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Littelfuse 3KP15 is a unidirectional Zener transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. Housed in a P600 axial through-hole package, this component provides 15V reverse standoff voltage with a 25.62V maximum clamping voltage and 123A peak pulse current capability.

The 3KP15 is classified as obsolete. Identifying suitable substitute components ensures design continuity and maintains supply chain reliability for applications requiring equivalent transient voltage suppression performance.

Substiute Parts

3KP15

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 6723KP15 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP15A

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 43895KP15A Datasheet

DirectRFQ

5KP15AE3/TR13

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 7515KP15AE3/TR13 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 3KP15 is determined by the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

• Voltage Rating: Reverse standoff voltage must be 15V nominal
• Breakdown Voltage: Minimum breakdown voltage range 15.84V to 16.7V
• Clamping Voltage: Maximum clamping voltage at peak pulse current between 24.4V and 25.62V
• Peak Pulse Current: Minimum 123A at 10/1000µs pulse
• Power Dissipation: Minimum 3000W peak pulse power
• Package: P600 axial through-hole configuration
• Type: Unidirectional Zener TVS diode
• Compliance: ROHS3 compliant

The substitute parts identified below meet or exceed these parameters while maintaining identical package geometry and electrical classification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both substitute parts are classified as active products with current manufacturing status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability compared to the obsolete 3KP15.

5KP15A (Littelfuse Inc.) provides a direct upgrade path from the same manufacturer. This part exceeds the original specifications with 209A peak pulse current and 5000W power dissipation, delivering enhanced transient protection margin. ROHS3 compliance and unlimited moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1) confirm environmental and handling compatibility.

5KP15AE3/TR13 (Microchip Technology) offers an alternative from a different manufacturer with equivalent electrical performance. Peak pulse current of 205A and 5000W power dissipation provide comparable protection enhancement. ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status confirm regulatory alignment. This part is supplied in tape and reel packaging, suitable for automated assembly environments.

Both substitutes maintain identical P600 axial through-hole package geometry, enabling direct mechanical and electrical replacement without PCB redesign.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5KP15A or 5KP15AE3/TR13 be used as direct replacements for the 3KP15?

A: Yes. Both substitute parts maintain the same 15V reverse standoff voltage, P600 axial package, and unidirectional Zener topology. The electrical parameters of the substitutes meet or exceed the original specifications, ensuring functional compatibility in the same circuit application.

Q: What is the difference between the 5KP15A and 5KP15AE3/TR13?

A: Both parts share identical electrical ratings: 15V standoff, 24.4V clamping voltage, and 5000W peak pulse power. The primary differences are manufacturer (Littelfuse vs. Microchip) and packaging format (cut tape vs. tape and reel). Selection depends on supply chain preference and assembly process requirements.

Q: Why do the substitute parts have higher peak pulse current and power ratings?

A: The 5KP series represents an enhanced design generation compared to the 3KP series. The 5KP15A and 5KP15AE3/TR13 deliver 209A and 205A peak pulse current respectively, versus 123A for the 3KP15, while maintaining the same voltage ratings. This provides additional transient protection margin without changing the circuit protection threshold.

Q: Are there any package or mounting differences?

A: No. All three parts use the P600 axial through-hole package. Mechanical dimensions and lead spacing are identical, allowing direct PCB substitution without layout modifications.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the substitute parts?

A: Both 5KP15A and 5KP15AE3/TR13 are ROHS3 compliant. The 5KP15AE3/TR13 additionally carries REACH unaffected status. Both parts have MSL 1 (unlimited) moisture sensitivity level, indicating no special storage or handling requirements.