MLCE45AE3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MLCE45AE3 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 features a 45V reverse standoff voltage with a 72.7V maximum clamping voltage and 20.6A peak pulse current capability. The part maintains active product status with 669 units currently in stock.

Substitute parts become necessary when addressing supply chain constraints, packaging format requirements, compliance specifications, or operational temperature range extensions. The MLCE45AE3 is classified as RoHS non-compliant, which may necessitate alternative sourcing for applications requiring RoHS3 compliance or REACH compliance verification.

Substiute Parts

MLCE45AE3

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 774MLCE45AE3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LCE45A

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 1926LCE45A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the MLCE45AE3 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 45V
• Voltage - Breakdown (Min): 50V
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 72.7V
• Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs): 20.6A
• Power - Peak Pulse: 1500W
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package / Case: DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
• Type: Zener
• Unidirectional Channels: 1

The LCE45A manufactured by Littelfuse Inc. satisfies all mandatory matching parameters. Both components are classified as active products with identical electrical specifications for voltage suppression and current handling. The primary differences between the MLCE45AE3 and LCE45A are packaging format (Bulk versus Cut Tape), operating temperature range extension (150°C versus 175°C maximum), and RoHS compliance status (non-compliant versus RoHS3 compliant).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MLCE45AE3 Selection Criteria: The MLCE45AE3 is appropriate for applications where bulk packaging is preferred and RoHS non-compliance is acceptable. This component carries MIL-PRF-19500 military qualification and operates within the -65°C to 150°C temperature range. Selection of this part is suitable for legacy systems or applications where military-grade certification is a requirement.

LCE45A Selection Criteria: The LCE45A is the appropriate substitute when RoHS3 compliance is mandatory for the end application. This component provides identical electrical performance with an extended maximum operating temperature of 175°C, offering additional thermal margin in high-temperature environments. The Cut Tape packaging format of the LCE45A supports automated assembly processes. Both components maintain active product status and REACH compliance.

Compliance Considerations: Applications requiring RoHS3 compliance must utilize the LCE45A. Applications subject to military specifications or requiring MIL-PRF-19500 qualification should retain the MLCE45AE3. Both components are classified as REACH Unaffected and carry identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8541.10.0080) designations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LCE45A directly replace the MLCE45AE3 in existing circuit designs?

A: Yes. The LCE45A provides electrical equivalence across all critical parameters: 45V reverse standoff voltage, 72.7V clamping voltage, and 20.6A peak pulse current. Both components use identical DO-201AA/DO-27 axial through-hole packaging. Physical and electrical compatibility is confirmed.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two TVS diodes?

A: The primary differences are packaging format (Bulk versus Cut Tape), operating temperature range (150°C maximum for MLCE45AE3 versus 175°C for LCE45A), and RoHS compliance status (non-compliant versus RoHS3 compliant). Electrical specifications are identical.

Q: Does the extended temperature range of the LCE45A affect circuit performance?

A: No. The extended maximum operating temperature of 175°C on the LCE45A does not alter electrical performance within the standard operating range. This specification indicates the component's thermal capability and does not change voltage suppression characteristics or current handling at normal operating temperatures.

Q: Are there packaging considerations when substituting between these parts?

A: Yes. The MLCE45AE3 is supplied in Bulk packaging, while the LCE45A is supplied in Cut Tape (CT) format. Cut Tape packaging is compatible with automated pick-and-place assembly equipment. Manual assembly processes can accommodate either format. Verify your procurement and assembly processes support the selected packaging format.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: For new designs, the LCE45A is the preferred selection due to RoHS3 compliance, extended operating temperature range, and active product status with higher inventory availability (1886 units versus 669 units). The LCE45A meets modern regulatory requirements and provides superior thermal performance margins.

Q: Is military qualification a factor in selecting between these parts?

A: Yes. The MLCE45AE3 carries MIL-PRF-19500 military qualification, while the LCE45A does not reference this specification. Applications requiring military-grade certification must use the MLCE45AE3. Commercial and industrial applications can utilize either component based on compliance and temperature requirements.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for both components?

A: Both the MLCE45AE3 and LCE45A are classified as MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions. These components do not require special moisture control during storage, handling, or assembly.