CS220-12B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CS220-12B is a Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) rated for 200V off-state voltage with 12A on-state current capacity, manufactured by Central Semiconductor Corp in a TO-220-3 through-hole package. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing system support and new design implementations. The part operates across a temperature range of -40°C to 125°C and features standard recovery characteristics typical of general-purpose thyristor applications.

Substiute Parts

CS220-12B

Central Semiconductor CorpIn Stock: 1040CS220-12B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MCR218-4G

onsemiIn Stock: 10234MCR218-4G Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CS220-12B is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Voltage rating (off-state): 200V minimum
• SCR type classification: Standard Recovery
• Package format: TO-220-3 through-hole configuration
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 125°C minimum
• Gate trigger characteristics: Vgt ≤ 1.5V, Igt ≤ 15mA

The MCR218-4G from onsemi meets the voltage, package, temperature, and gate trigger specifications. However, the on-state current rating differs: the MCR218-4G is rated for 8A maximum versus the CS220-12B's 12A rating. This represents a reduction in current-handling capacity and must be evaluated against application requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MCR218-4G is an active-status alternative to the obsolete CS220-12B, offering continued component availability and supply chain stability. Both devices share identical voltage ratings, gate trigger voltage specifications, SCR type classification, operating temperature range, and TO-220-3 package format, ensuring mechanical and thermal compatibility.

The primary design consideration is the current rating differential: the MCR218-4G maximum on-state current is 8A compared to the CS220-12B's 12A specification. Applications requiring the full 12A capacity of the original part cannot use the MCR218-4G as a direct substitute without circuit redesign or parallel device configuration. Applications operating at or below 8A RMS current can transition to the MCR218-4G without modification.

The MCR218-4G exhibits slightly higher on-state voltage (1.8V maximum versus 1.6V maximum) and higher hold current (30mA versus 20mA), which may result in marginally increased power dissipation in high-current applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MCR218-4G replace the CS220-12B in all applications?

A: No. The MCR218-4G is rated for 8A maximum on-state current versus the CS220-12B's 12A rating. Substitution is valid only for applications operating at 8A RMS or below. Applications requiring 12A capacity require alternative solutions or circuit modification.

Q: Are the packages physically identical?

A: Both devices use the TO-220-3 package format for through-hole mounting. Physical dimensions and pin configuration are compatible, allowing direct PCB footprint compatibility.

Q: What is the impact of the higher on-state voltage in the MCR218-4G?

A: The MCR218-4G maximum on-state voltage is 1.8V versus 1.6V for the CS220-12B. This 0.2V difference increases forward voltage drop and power dissipation proportionally with load current. For low-current applications, this impact is negligible; for high-current applications approaching 8A, thermal design review is recommended.

Q: Are gate trigger characteristics compatible?

A: Yes. Both devices specify 1.5V maximum gate trigger voltage, ensuring gate drive circuit compatibility. The MCR218-4G gate trigger current maximum is 25mA versus 15mA for the CS220-12B, indicating the substitute requires slightly higher gate current for reliable triggering.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference?

A: The CS220-12B is classified as obsolete, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited inventory availability. The MCR218-4G is active-status, ensuring ongoing production, supply chain availability, and long-term design support.