3KP160-B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3KP160-B is a unidirectional Zener transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This component features a 160V reverse standoff voltage with a maximum clamping voltage of 271.95V at peak pulse current. The part is currently obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives from active product lines that maintain compatibility with existing circuit designs.

Substiute Parts

3KP160-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 7583KP160-B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP160A-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 7475KP160A-B Datasheet

DirectRFQ

15KPA160AE3/TR13

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 88115KPA160AE3/TR13 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

3KP160A-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 8053KP160A-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

5KP160A-E3/54

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 16285KP160A-E3/54 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

5KP160A-E3/73

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 8935KP160A-E3/73 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 3KP160-B is determined by the following critical parameters that must remain consistent across equivalent parts:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 160V
• Unidirectional Channels: 1
• Type: Zener
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
• RoHS3 Compliance

Substitute parts are grouped into two categories based on power handling capability and package compatibility:

Category A - Direct Power Rating Match (3kW): Parts maintaining the original 3000W peak pulse power specification with identical or compatible package footprints.

Category B - Enhanced Power Rating (5kW and 15kW): Parts with increased peak pulse power ratings that provide superior transient suppression capability while maintaining all critical voltage and temperature parameters.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For P600 Package Compatibility (Direct Footprint Replacement):

The 5KP160A-B (Littelfuse Inc.), 5KP160A-E3/54 (Vishay), and 5KP160A-E3/73 (Vishay) are active products that maintain P600 axial package compatibility with the 3KP160-B. All three parts are ROHS3 compliant and operate within the identical temperature range. These parts provide increased peak pulse current handling (19.3A to 19.7A) and 5000W power rating, delivering enhanced transient suppression while maintaining the same physical footprint.

For Maximum Transient Protection:

The 15KPA160AE3/TR13 (Microchip Technology) offers the highest peak pulse current rating at 58.4A with 15000W power dissipation capability. This part maintains P600 package compatibility, ROHS3 compliance, and identical operating temperature specifications. Selection of this part is appropriate for applications requiring superior transient energy absorption.

For Identical Power Rating Retention:

The 3KP160A-TP (Micro Commercial Co) maintains the original 3000W peak pulse power specification and 11.6A peak pulse current, providing a direct functional equivalent. This part uses an R-6 axial package rather than P600, requiring PCB layout verification for mechanical compatibility.

All substitute parts maintain the critical 160V reverse standoff voltage, unidirectional Zener topology, and -55°C to 175°C operating temperature range required for functional equivalence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5KP160A-B replace the 3KP160-B in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 5KP160A-B maintains all critical electrical parameters: 160V reverse standoff voltage, Zener type, unidirectional topology, and identical operating temperature range. The P600 axial package provides direct footprint compatibility. The increased power rating (5000W vs 3000W) and peak pulse current (19.7A vs 11.6A) provide enhanced protection without circuit modification.

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

A: Both are through-hole axial packages for TVS diodes. P600 and R-6 differ in physical dimensions and lead spacing. The 3KP160A-TP uses R-6 packaging, which may require PCB layout verification to confirm mechanical compatibility with existing P600 footprints. Consult package datasheets for precise dimensional specifications.

Q: Why does the 15KPA160AE3/TR13 have a higher peak pulse current rating?

A: The 15KPA160AE3/TR13 is designed for higher-energy transient suppression applications. The 58.4A peak pulse current and 15000W power rating reflect a different product tier within the 160V TVS diode family. This part is electrically compatible with the 3KP160-B but is specified for applications requiring superior transient energy absorption.

Q: Are all substitute parts ROHS3 compliant?

A: The 5KP160A-B, 15KPA160AE3/TR13, 5KP160A-E3/54, and 5KP160A-E3/73 are confirmed ROHS3 compliant. The 3KP160A-TP RoHS status is not specified in the provided data. Verify RoHS compliance documentation with the supplier if regulatory compliance is required.

Q: What is the significance of the voltage breakdown minimum specification?

A: The voltage breakdown minimum (168.75V for the 3KP160-B, 178V for most substitutes) defines the threshold at which the TVS diode begins conducting. The 3KP160-B has a lower breakdown minimum, resulting in earlier activation. Substitute parts with higher breakdown minimums activate at slightly higher voltages. For applications with tight voltage tolerance requirements, this parameter must be evaluated against circuit specifications.

Q: Can substitute parts be used interchangeably in the same circuit?

A: Substitute parts with identical package types (P600) can be used interchangeably from a mechanical standpoint. Electrical interchangeability depends on circuit tolerance to the specified parameter variations, particularly voltage clamping characteristics and peak pulse current ratings. Circuit simulation or testing is appropriate when transitioning between different power ratings or manufacturers.