CR2103AC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CR2103AC is a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse, designed for general-purpose voltage protection applications. This component features a 170V reverse standoff voltage rating and is housed in a TO-220 Modified package with three channels. The product is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

CR2103AC

LittelfuseIn Stock: 725CR2103AC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P2103ACL

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 5485P2103ACL Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CR2103AC is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Voltage Rating Alignment: Reverse standoff voltage of 170V and breakdown voltage of 250V
• Channel Configuration: Three-channel bidirectional protection capability
• Package Compatibility: TO-220 Modified 3-SIP form factor for direct mechanical fit
• Mounting Type: Through-hole technology for PCB integration
• Thermal Range: Operating temperature range of -55°C to 175°C

The P2103ACL qualifies as a substitute based on matching these core electrical and mechanical specifications, despite representing a different device technology (TVS Thyristor vs. Zener diode). Both components share identical voltage ratings, channel count, package geometry, and thermal operating range.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The P2103ACL is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete CR2103AC. Selection of this substitute is supported by the following factors:

• Product Status: The CR2103AC is obsolete, while the P2103ACL maintains active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.
• Regulatory Compliance: The P2103ACL achieves ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements. The CR2103AC is RoHS non-compliant.
• Electrical Equivalence: Both components maintain identical voltage ratings (170V standoff, 250V breakdown) and three-channel configuration, ensuring functional compatibility in protection circuits.
• Physical Compatibility: Identical TO-220 Modified 3-SIP packaging enables direct mechanical substitution without PCB redesign.
• Thermal Performance: Matching operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C) ensures equivalent thermal performance in system applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P2103ACL be used as a direct replacement for CR2103AC in existing designs?

A: Yes. The P2103ACL matches the CR2103AC in voltage rating (170V standoff, 250V breakdown), channel count (3), package type (TO-220 Modified 3-SIP), and thermal range (-55°C to 175°C). Direct substitution is mechanically and electrically compatible.

Q: What is the primary difference between the CR2103AC and P2103ACL?

A: The CR2103AC is a Zener-type TVS diode, while the P2103ACL is a Thyristor-type TVS device (SIDACtor®). Both provide equivalent voltage protection at the specified ratings. The P2103ACL is the active, manufacturer-recommended replacement.

Q: Why is the CR2103AC listed as obsolete?

A: The CR2103AC has been discontinued by Littelfuse. The P2103ACL represents the current production alternative that maintains equivalent electrical and mechanical specifications.

Q: Are there compliance differences between these parts?

A: Yes. The P2103ACL is ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, while the CR2103AC is RoHS non-compliant. For applications requiring regulatory compliance, the P2103ACL is the appropriate selection.

Q: Will the P2103ACL fit the same PCB footprint as the CR2103AC?

A: Yes. Both components use the TO-220 Modified 3-SIP package, ensuring identical pin spacing and mounting hole alignment for direct PCB compatibility.