MLCE24AE3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MLCE24AE3 is a unidirectional Zener-type transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This through-hole component operates with a 24V reverse standoff voltage and provides 38.9V maximum clamping voltage at peak pulse current. The part is currently active in production and maintains military-grade qualification under MIL-PRF-19500. Substitute parts are identified to address packaging preferences, compliance requirements, or inventory availability while maintaining electrical equivalence across critical performance parameters.

Substiute Parts

MLCE24AE3

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1055MLCE24AE3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LCE24A

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 1468LCE24A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MLCE24AE3 is determined by equivalence across the following critical electrical parameters:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff: 24V (typical)
• Voltage - Breakdown (Minimum): 26.7V
• Voltage - Clamping (Maximum) @ Ipp: 38.9V
• Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs): 39A
• Power - Peak Pulse: 1500W
• Unidirectional Channels: 1
• Type: Zener
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package / Case: DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial

The LCE24A from Littelfuse Inc. meets all electrical equivalence criteria and is classified as a direct substitute. Both parts share identical voltage and current ratings, the same unidirectional Zener topology, and compatible through-hole axial packaging. Differences in operating temperature range, RoHS compliance status, and packaging format (bulk versus cut tape) do not affect electrical substitutability for applications within the specified parameter envelope.

Parameter Comparison

*The LCE24A operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C) encompasses the MLCE24AE3 range (-65°C to 150°C) with the exception of the lower temperature limit, which is 10°C higher. For applications requiring operation below -55°C, the MLCE24AE3 is required.

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MLCE24AE3 (Microchip Technology) is selected when:

• Military-grade qualification under MIL-PRF-19500 is a contractual or design requirement
• Operating temperature must extend to -65°C
• RoHS non-compliance is acceptable or required by specification
• Bulk packaging format is preferred for manufacturing processes

LCE24A (Littelfuse Inc.) is selected when:

• ROHS3 compliance is mandated by procurement or environmental regulations
• Operating temperature range of -55°C to 175°C satisfies application requirements
• Cut tape packaging format is compatible with automated assembly equipment
• Inventory availability or lead time considerations favor the Littelfuse part

Both parts are active products with confirmed inventory availability and share identical electrical performance across all critical TVS diode parameters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LCE24A replace the MLCE24AE3 in all applications?

A: The LCE24A is electrically equivalent for applications operating within the temperature range of -55°C to 175°C. Applications requiring operation below -55°C must use the MLCE24AE3 due to its extended lower temperature limit of -65°C.

Q: What is the significance of the different RoHS compliance statuses?

A: The MLCE24AE3 is RoHS non-compliant, while the LCE24A is ROHS3 compliant. Selection depends on regulatory requirements applicable to the end product. RoHS compliance does not affect electrical performance or substitutability.

Q: Are the packaging formats interchangeable?

A: Both parts use compatible through-hole axial packages (DO-201AA, DO-27). The MLCE24AE3 is supplied in bulk packaging, while the LCE24A is supplied in cut tape format. Mechanical compatibility is maintained; packaging format selection depends on assembly process requirements.

Q: Do the voltage and current ratings differ between these parts?

A: No. Both parts maintain identical voltage ratings (24V reverse standoff, 26.7V breakdown minimum, 38.9V clamping maximum) and current ratings (39A peak pulse). They are electrically equivalent for transient voltage suppression.

Q: What is the significance of the MIL-PRF-19500 qualification on the MLCE24AE3?

A: MIL-PRF-19500 is a military performance specification for semiconductor diodes. This qualification is specific to the MLCE24AE3 and is not listed for the LCE24A. Selection of the MLCE24AE3 is required when military qualification is a contractual or design specification.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in PCB designs?

A: Yes, provided the application operating temperature range does not fall below -55°C. Both parts share identical electrical parameters and compatible through-hole axial packaging, allowing direct substitution in circuit designs without modification.