LCE33A Transient Voltage Suppressor Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LCE33A is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This through-hole component operates with a 33V reverse standoff voltage and provides 53.3V maximum clamping voltage with 28.1A peak pulse current capability. The part is currently active in production and RoHS3 compliant.

Equivalent and substitute parts are identified based on matching critical electrical parameters: reverse standoff voltage (33V), breakdown voltage (36.7V minimum), clamping voltage (53.3V maximum), and through-hole axial mounting configuration. Substitutes may vary in peak pulse current capacity and power dissipation ratings, which determine suitability for specific application requirements.

Substiute Parts

LCE33A

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 1161LCE33A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5KP33A

Diotec SemiconductorIn Stock: 43285KP33A Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

SA33A

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 21325SA33A Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

5KP33A-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 12205KP33A-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the LCE33A are qualified based on the following critical parameters that must match or exceed the main part specifications:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff: 33V
• Voltage - Breakdown (Min): 36.7V
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 53.3V
• Unidirectional Channels: 1
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package Configuration: Axial

Variable Parameters (Application-Dependent):

• Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs): Substitutes may have higher ratings
• Power - Peak Pulse: Substitutes may have higher ratings
• Package / Case: Different through-hole axial packages acceptable
• Operating Temperature Range: May vary within acceptable limits

The three identified substitutes (5KP33A, SA33A, 5KP33A-TP) all maintain the core voltage specifications while offering different current and power handling capabilities and package configurations.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

5KP33A (Diotec Semiconductor): This substitute provides higher peak pulse current (94A) and power dissipation (5000W) compared to the LCE33A. The P600 package is a through-hole axial configuration compatible with LCE33A footprints. The part is currently active in production. RoHS compliance status is not applicable for this manufacturer designation. Operating temperature range (-50°C to 175°C) is narrower than the LCE33A but suitable for most general-purpose applications.

SA33A (Fairchild Semiconductor): This substitute has lower peak pulse current (9.4A) and power dissipation (500W) ratings compared to the LCE33A. The DO-15 package is a through-hole axial configuration. This part is obsolete and no longer in active production, limiting its availability for new designs. RoHS3 compliance is confirmed. This substitute is suitable only for applications with reduced transient energy requirements.

5KP33A-TP (Micro Commercial Co): This substitute provides higher power dissipation (5000W) with peak pulse current not specified in available data. The R-6 package is a through-hole axial configuration. The part is currently active in production and RoHS3 compliant. Operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C) is acceptable for general-purpose applications. REACH compliance is confirmed as unaffected.

For new designs requiring active component availability and compliance documentation, 5KP33A or 5KP33A-TP are preferred. The SA33A substitute should be avoided due to obsolete status and lower performance ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use the 5KP33A as a direct replacement for the LCE33A?

A: Yes, the 5KP33A is electrically compatible as a substitute. Both parts maintain identical voltage specifications (33V reverse standoff, 36.7V breakdown minimum, 53.3V clamping maximum). The 5KP33A offers higher current and power handling (94A, 5000W versus 28.1A, 1500W), making it suitable for applications requiring greater transient energy absorption. Physical package differences (P600 versus DO-201AA) require verification of PCB footprint compatibility.

Q: Why is the SA33A listed as a substitute if it has lower current and power ratings?

A: The SA33A maintains the same critical voltage specifications required for 33V protection circuits. It is included as a substitute for applications with lower transient energy requirements where 9.4A peak pulse current and 500W power dissipation are sufficient. However, its obsolete status makes it unsuitable for new production designs.

Q: What are the package differences between these substitutes?

A: All three substitutes are through-hole axial components but use different package designations: LCE33A uses DO-201AA/DO-27, 5KP33A uses P600, SA33A uses DO-15, and 5KP33A-TP uses R-6. These packages have different physical dimensions and lead spacing. PCB layout verification is required before substitution to ensure mechanical compatibility.

Q: Are all substitutes RoHS3 compliant?

A: The LCE33A, SA33A, and 5KP33A-TP are confirmed RoHS3 compliant. The 5KP33A from Diotec Semiconductor has RoHS status listed as not applicable. Compliance requirements should be verified against your specific application and regional regulations.

Q: Can I use the 5KP33A-TP if peak pulse current is not specified?

A: The 5KP33A-TP is rated for 5000W peak pulse power, which indicates substantial current handling capability. However, the exact peak pulse current value is not provided in available technical data. For applications where precise current specifications are critical, the 5KP33A with documented 94A rating is preferred.

Q: What is the operating temperature difference between these parts?

A: The LCE33A operates from -65°C to 175°C, providing the widest temperature range. The 5KP33A operates from -50°C to 175°C, and the 5KP33A-TP from -55°C to 175°C. For applications requiring operation below -50°C, the LCE33A is the only suitable option among these substitutes.