3KP15C Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3KP15C is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. It features a 15V reverse standoff voltage with a 25.62V maximum clamping voltage and 123A peak pulse current capability in a P600 axial through-hole package. The 3KP15C is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for new designs and ongoing production requirements.

Substiute Parts

3KP15C

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 11283KP15C Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP15CA

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 37845KP15CA Datasheet

DirectRFQ

5KP15CE3/TR13

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 9645KP15CE3/TR13 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 3KP15C is determined by the following critical parameters that must remain consistent across equivalent parts:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 15V
• Package / Case: P600, Axial (Through Hole)
• Bidirectional Channels: 1
• Type: Zener
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant

The substitute parts identified maintain these core electrical and mechanical specifications. Variations in clamping voltage, peak pulse current, and peak pulse power are permissible within the constraints of the P600 package and 15V standoff voltage rating, as these represent enhanced performance characteristics suitable for the same application category.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both 5KP15CA and 5KP15CE3/TR13 are active product alternatives to the obsolete 3KP15C. Selection between these options should be based on the following factors:

5KP15CA (Littelfuse Inc.): This part maintains manufacturer continuity with the original 3KP15C, both sourced from Littelfuse Inc. It is available in Cut Tape packaging and provides enhanced performance with 209A peak pulse current and 5000W peak pulse power. ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status are confirmed.

5KP15CE3/TR13 (Microchip Technology): This part is supplied in Tape & Reel packaging and offers comparable performance with 186A peak pulse current and 5000W peak pulse power. It carries ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status. The clamping voltage of 26.9V is slightly elevated compared to the original specification.

Both substitutes maintain the critical 15V reverse standoff voltage, P600 axial package configuration, and -55°C to 175°C operating temperature range. The selection between these parts should be based on packaging requirements, supplier availability, and design margin considerations for clamping voltage performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5KP15CA directly replace the 3KP15C in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 5KP15CA maintains identical reverse standoff voltage (15V), package type (P600 axial), and operating temperature range. The increased peak pulse current (209A vs. 123A) and power rating (5000W vs. 3000W) represent enhanced performance characteristics compatible with the same application space.

Q: What is the difference between Cut Tape and Tape & Reel packaging?

A: Cut Tape (CT) packaging is supplied as individual strips cut to length, suitable for manual assembly or smaller production runs. Tape & Reel (TR) packaging is supplied on continuous reels, optimized for automated pick-and-place assembly in high-volume manufacturing. Both formats contain identical components; the difference is in handling and assembly methodology.

Q: Are there any compliance differences between the substitute parts?

A: All three parts—3KP15C, 5KP15CA, and 5KP15CE3/TR13—are ROHS3 compliant. The 5KP15CA and 5KP15CE3/TR13 both carry REACH Unaffected status, confirming regulatory alignment for current production environments.

Q: How do clamping voltage variations affect circuit protection?

A: The clamping voltage determines the maximum voltage spike that reaches protected circuitry. The 3KP15C clamps at 25.62V, while the 5KP15CA clamps at 24.4V and the 5KP15CE3/TR13 clamps at 26.9V. All values remain within acceptable ranges for 15V standoff applications. Circuit design margins should account for these variations when selecting between alternatives.

Q: Can I use the Microchip 5KP15CE3/TR13 if my design specifies Littelfuse components?

A: Electrical and mechanical compatibility is confirmed. However, design specifications requiring single-source or manufacturer-specific components would need formal engineering review and approval before substitution.