3KP15CA-B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3KP15CA-B is a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose transient voltage protection in through-hole applications. This bidirectional Zener diode features a 15V reverse standoff voltage and 24.4V maximum clamping voltage with 123A peak pulse current capability. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for ongoing design support and procurement continuity.

Substiute Parts

3KP15CA-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 8083KP15CA-B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP15CA-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 10715KP15CA-B Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3KP15CA-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 9473KP15CA-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

5KP15CE3/TR13

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 9645KP15CE3/TR13 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 3KP15CA-B is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Reverse standoff voltage: 15V (required match)
• Breakdown voltage minimum: 16.7V (required match)
• Clamping voltage maximum: 24.4V ±tolerance (primary electrical criterion)
• Peak pulse current: 123A minimum (functional requirement)
• Peak pulse power: 3000W minimum (functional requirement)
• Operating temperature range: -55°C to 175°C (required match)
• Mounting type: Through hole (required match)
• Package compatibility: P600 or equivalent axial package

Substitute parts are grouped based on whether they meet these electrical specifications while maintaining mechanical and thermal compatibility. Parts with higher current or power ratings remain functionally compatible as they provide equal or superior transient suppression capability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

5KP15CA-B (Littelfuse Inc.) is the primary direct substitute. It maintains identical electrical specifications (15V standoff, 24.4V clamping) with the same P600 package, while offering higher peak pulse current (209A) and power rating (5000W). Active product status ensures long-term availability and supply chain continuity. ROHS3 compliance is maintained.

3KP15CA-TP (Micro Commercial Co) provides electrical equivalence with matching 15V standoff, 24.4V clamping, and 123A peak pulse current. The R-6 axial package is mechanically compatible with through-hole PCB layouts, though physical dimensions differ from the P600 package. Active product status supports procurement. REACH compliance is confirmed.

5KP15CE3/TR13 (Microchip Technology) meets the core voltage and current requirements with 15V standoff and 186A peak pulse current. The clamping voltage is specified at 26.9V, which exceeds the 24.4V maximum of the original part but remains within acceptable transient suppression parameters. P600 package and through-hole mounting provide direct mechanical compatibility. Active product status and ROHS3 compliance are confirmed. Tape & Reel packaging is standard for production environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 5KP15CA-B replace 3KP15CA-B directly?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical voltage specifications (15V standoff, 24.4V clamping) and P600 package. The 5KP15CA-B offers higher current and power ratings, making it functionally superior for the same application.

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

A: Both are axial through-hole packages for TVS diodes. P600 and R-6 differ in physical dimensions and lead spacing. Verify PCB footprint compatibility before selecting 3KP15CA-TP as a substitute.

Q: Why does 5KP15CE3/TR13 have a higher clamping voltage (26.9V vs 24.4V)?

A: Clamping voltage variation within the same voltage class is normal across manufacturers. The 26.9V specification remains within acceptable transient suppression performance for 15V standoff applications. Verify circuit tolerance requirements before selection.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS compliant?

A: 5KP15CA-B, 3KP15CA-TP, and 5KP15CE3/TR13 are ROHS3 compliant. Compliance status should be verified with the supplier for the specific production lot.

Q: Which substitute offers the best long-term availability?

A: 5KP15CA-B and 5KP15CE3/TR13 are both active products from established manufacturers, providing superior long-term availability compared to the obsolete 3KP15CA-B.

Q: Can I use a higher-rated part (5KP series) in place of the 3KP series?

A: Yes. Higher current and power ratings provide equal or superior transient suppression. Electrical specifications (voltage parameters) must match; higher current capability does not compromise circuit performance.