CR3602AB Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CR3602AB is a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection in through-hole applications. This component features a 160V reverse standoff voltage and 220V minimum breakdown voltage in a TO-220 Modified package configuration. The CR3602AB is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

CR3602AB

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 823CR3602AB Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P3602ABL

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 1155P3602ABL Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The P3602ABL serves as the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the CR3602AB. Substitution compatibility is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Package Configuration: Both parts utilize the 3-SIP TO-220 Modified package, ensuring mechanical and thermal compatibility in existing PCB layouts
• Bidirectional Protection: Both components provide dual-channel overvoltage suppression for symmetrical transient protection
• Voltage Operating Range: The P3603ABL operates with a 170V off-state voltage and 220V breakover voltage, maintaining functional equivalence within the protection envelope of the original CR3602AB
• Mounting Type: Through-hole configuration remains consistent, allowing direct replacement without PCB redesign
• Thermal Performance: Both components support the same operating temperature range of -55°C to 175°C

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The P3602ABL is the active-status replacement for the obsolete CR3602AB. Selection between these components should be based on the following criteria:

For New Designs and Ongoing Production: The P3602ABL is the appropriate choice. It maintains active manufacturing status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. The component achieves ROHS3 compliance, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for commercial and industrial applications.

For Legacy System Support: The CR3602AB remains available in inventory (745 pieces in stock) for systems requiring exact original component specifications. However, transition to the P3602ABL is recommended where design flexibility permits, given its active product status and regulatory compliance.

Compliance Considerations: The P3602ABL's ROHS3 compliance provides advantages for applications subject to environmental regulations. The CR3602AB's RoHS non-compliant status may present restrictions in certain markets or procurement environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P3602ABL directly replace the CR3602AB in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. Both components share identical package configurations (3-SIP TO-220 Modified), mounting types (through-hole), and thermal operating ranges (-55°C to 175°C). Pin-to-pin compatibility is maintained, allowing direct substitution without PCB modification.

Q: What are the key differences between these two parts?

A: The primary differences are product status and regulatory compliance. The CR3602AB is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant, while the P3602ABL is active and ROHS3 compliant. The P3602ABL operates with a 170V off-state voltage compared to the CR3602AB's 160V reverse standoff voltage, representing a 10V increase in protection margin.

Q: Are there any performance trade-offs when substituting the P3602ABL for the CR3602AB?

A: No performance trade-offs exist. The P3602ABL maintains the same 220V breakover voltage and dual-channel bidirectional protection architecture. The higher off-state voltage (170V vs. 160V) provides improved protection margin without compromising circuit compatibility.

Q: What is the significance of the TO-220 Modified package designation?

A: The TO-220 Modified package indicates a three-pin configuration (3-SIP) optimized for through-hole mounting in standard PCB layouts. Both the CR3602AB and P3602ABL utilize this identical package, ensuring mechanical fit and thermal dissipation characteristics remain consistent across substitution.

Q: Why is RoHS compliance important for this substitution?

A: ROHS3 compliance indicates the P3602ABL meets current environmental regulations restricting hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. For applications in regulated markets or with environmental procurement requirements, the P3602ABL's compliance status provides regulatory assurance that the CR3602AB's non-compliant status cannot provide.

Q: Is inventory availability a factor in component selection?

A: Yes. The CR3602AB has 745 pieces in stock, while the P3602ABL has 1076 pieces available. For immediate requirements, both options provide adequate inventory. For long-term supply assurance, the P3602ABL's active status ensures continued manufacturing and availability beyond current stock levels.