KWS5-15 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The KWS5-15 is an enclosed AC/DC converter manufactured by TDK-Lambda Americas Inc, rated for 5W output power with a single 15V output at 350mA maximum current. The unit accepts universal AC input (85–265 VAC) and is designed for ITE (Commercial) applications. The KWS5-15 is classified as obsolete product status, necessitating identification of active equivalent models to ensure continued component availability and supply chain continuity for new designs and legacy system maintenance.

Substiute Parts

KWS5-15

TDK-Lambda Americas IncIn Stock: 730KWS5-15 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

KPSA5-15

TDK-Lambda Americas IncIn Stock: 1035KPSA5-15 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

KWS5A-15

TDK-Lambda Americas IncIn Stock: 805KWS5A-15 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the KWS5-15 is determined by the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Criteria:

• Output voltage: 15V (exact match required)
• Output current capacity: minimum 350mA
• Input voltage range: minimum 85–265 VAC coverage
• Power rating: 5W nominal
• Single output configuration

Mechanical Compatibility Criteria:

• Mounting type: Through Hole
• Package form factor: DIP module configuration
• Physical dimensions: compatible with 5-DIP or smaller footprint
• Enclosure type: Enclosed or Open Frame (both acceptable for functional replacement)

Regulatory Compliance:

• Approval agencies: CE, CSA, UL (minimum baseline)
• Applications: ITE (Commercial)

Two substitute parts meet these criteria: KPSA5-15 and KWS5A-15. Both are active products from TDK-Lambda Americas Inc with identical output specifications (15V, 5W) and universal AC input capability. The KPSA5-15 is an open-frame variant with reduced current output specification, while the KWS5A-15 is an enclosed variant with extended input range (AC and DC) and improved temperature operating range.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

KWS5A-15 (Preferred Substitute): The KWS5A-15 is the primary recommended substitute for the obsolete KWS5-15. Both units share identical enclosed form factor, 15V/350mA output specifications, and through-hole mounting. The KWS5A-15 offers extended operating temperature range (−10°C to 85°C versus −10°C to 70°C), dual input capability (AC and DC), and active product status with RoHS compliance. The KWS5A-15 maintains functional and mechanical compatibility while providing enhanced environmental performance and regulatory compliance. Physical footprint is reduced (4-DIP versus 5-DIP), requiring PCB layout verification for existing designs.

KPSA5-15 (Alternative Substitute): The KPSA5-15 is an alternative substitute suitable for applications where open-frame construction is acceptable and current output specification is not critical. This unit provides active product status, RoHS compliance, and CE/CSA/UL approvals. The open-frame design results in smaller physical dimensions and lower weight. However, the KPSA5-15 does not specify maximum output current, limiting its suitability for designs requiring guaranteed 350mA delivery. The narrower operating temperature range (0°C to 70°C) excludes applications requiring sub-zero operation.

Selection Logic:

• For direct replacement in existing designs: KWS5A-15
• For space-constrained applications where current specification is not critical: KPSA5-15
• Both substitutes provide active product status, eliminating obsolescence risk

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the KPSA5-15 replace the KWS5-15 in all applications?

A: The KPSA5-15 is functionally compatible for 15V/5W output requirements but has two limitations. First, maximum output current is not specified, making it unsuitable for applications requiring guaranteed 350mA delivery. Second, the operating temperature range (0°C to 70°C) excludes applications requiring operation below 0°C. Verify application current and temperature requirements before selection.

Q: What is the primary difference between KWS5A-15 and KWS5-15?

A: The KWS5A-15 is the active successor to the obsolete KWS5-15. Both are enclosed converters with identical 15V/350mA output and through-hole mounting. The KWS5A-15 adds dual input capability (AC and DC), extends operating temperature to 85°C, reduces physical size (4-DIP versus 5-DIP), and includes RoHS compliance. Electrical performance (efficiency, regulation) is comparable.

Q: Does the KWS5A-15 require PCB layout changes?

A: Yes. The KWS5A-15 uses a 4-DIP module package versus the 5-DIP package of the KWS5-15, resulting in a smaller footprint. PCB layout verification is required to confirm pin spacing and mounting hole compatibility. Consult TDK-Lambda datasheets for exact dimensional specifications.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS compliant?

A: The KWS5A-15 and KPSA5-15 are both RoHS compliant. The original KWS5-15 RoHS status is not specified in available documentation.

Q: Which substitute has the best regulatory approvals?

A: The KWS5-15 (original) carries the most comprehensive approvals: CE, CSA, TUV, and UL. The KWS5A-15 carries CE approval only. The KPSA5-15 carries CE, CSA, EN, and UL approvals. For applications requiring specific regulatory certifications, verify approval alignment with system requirements before final selection.

Q: Can the KWS5A-15 accept DC input?

A: Yes. The KWS5A-15 accepts both AC input (85–265 VAC) and DC input (120–370 VDC), providing operational flexibility not available in the KWS5-15 (AC only) or KPSA5-15 (AC only).