MP6KE170AE3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MP6KE170AE3 is an active-status Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for general-purpose transient protection applications. This unidirectional zener-type TVS diode features a 145V reverse standoff voltage and 234V maximum clamping voltage, with a peak pulse current rating of 2.6A and 600W peak pulse power dissipation. The device is packaged in a T-18 axial through-hole configuration and qualifies to MIL-PRF-19500 military specifications.

Equivalent and substitute parts are identified to provide design flexibility when the primary part is unavailable, when alternative packaging configurations are preferred, or when supply chain optimization is required while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility within the specified parameter ranges.

Substiute Parts

MP6KE170AE3

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1105MP6KE170AE3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P6KE170A

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 15563P6KE170A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MP6KE170AE3 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical electrical parameters:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 145V
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 234V
• Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs): 2.6A
• Power - Peak Pulse: 600W
• Type: Zener, Unidirectional (1 channel)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Applications: General Purpose

Substitute parts must maintain these electrical specifications within the tolerances defined by the device category. Packaging variations (T-18 versus DO-15/DO-204AC) are permitted when the through-hole axial configuration is preserved and mechanical fit within the application is verified. Operating temperature range variations are acceptable provided the substitute part's range encompasses the application's thermal requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MP6KE170AE3 (Microchip Technology)

The MP6KE170AE3 is the primary reference part and remains the preferred selection when availability and MIL-PRF-19500 military qualification are required. This part carries military-grade certification and is suitable for applications demanding formal qualification documentation. The T-18 package provides the specified through-hole axial configuration. Current inventory status indicates 1,077 pieces in stock.

P6KE170A (Fairchild Semiconductor)

The P6KE170A is electrically equivalent to the MP6KE170AE3 across all critical transient suppression parameters. Both devices maintain identical reverse standoff voltage (145V), clamping voltage (234V), peak pulse current (2.6A), and peak pulse power (600W). The P6KE170A is packaged in DO-15 (DO-204AC) axial configuration, which is mechanically compatible with through-hole applications. The substitute part features an extended operating temperature range (-50 to 175°C) compared to the primary part (-65 to 150°C), providing additional thermal margin in high-temperature environments. Both parts carry active product status and are RoHS non-compliant with identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications. Inventory availability for P6KE170A is significantly higher at 15,503 pieces in stock.

Selection between these parts is based on packaging preference, temperature range requirements, and supply chain considerations. Both parts are suitable for general-purpose transient voltage suppression applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P6KE170A replace the MP6KE170AE3 in my circuit?

A: Yes. Both devices are electrically equivalent across all critical TVS diode parameters: 145V reverse standoff voltage, 234V clamping voltage, 2.6A peak pulse current, and 600W peak pulse power. Both are unidirectional zener-type through-hole axial devices rated for general-purpose applications. The primary difference is packaging (T-18 versus DO-15/DO-204AC) and operating temperature range. Mechanical fit must be verified for your specific PCB layout.

Q: What is the difference between T-18 and DO-15 packaging?

A: Both T-18 and DO-15 (DO-204AC) are through-hole axial package styles for discrete diodes. The physical dimensions differ slightly. T-18 is the package designation used by Microchip, while DO-15 is the industry-standard designation used by Fairchild. Both accommodate standard through-hole PCB mounting. Verify lead spacing and body length compatibility with your PCB design before substitution.

Q: Does the P6KE170A have military qualification?

A: The P6KE170A is not listed with MIL-PRF-19500 qualification. The MP6KE170AE3 carries explicit military-grade certification. If military qualification is a design requirement, the MP6KE170AE3 is the specified part. If military qualification is not required, the P6KE170A is a suitable electrical equivalent.

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

A: The MP6KE170AE3 operates from -65°C to 150°C (TJ), while the P6KE170A operates from -50°C to 175°C (TJ). The P6KE170A provides a wider upper temperature range (+25°C advantage) but a narrower lower temperature range (-15°C disadvantage). Select based on your application's thermal environment.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: No. Both the MP6KE170AE3 and P6KE170A are RoHS non-compliant. If RoHS compliance is required, alternative parts must be sourced.

Q: What is the voltage breakdown difference between these parts?

A: The MP6KE170AE3 has a minimum breakdown voltage of 161V, while the P6KE170A has a minimum breakdown voltage of 162V. This 1V difference is within normal device tolerance and does not affect substitution suitability. Both parts maintain the same 145V reverse standoff voltage and 234V clamping voltage specifications.