MP6KE68AE3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MP6KE68AE3 is an active-status transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This unidirectional zener diode operates with a reverse standoff voltage of 58.1V and provides clamping protection at 92V with a peak pulse current rating of 6.5A. The device is packaged in a T-18 axial through-hole configuration and qualifies under MIL-PRF-19500 military specifications.

Substitute parts are identified to address inventory availability, extended lead times, or specific application requirements while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility within the defined parameter tolerances.

Substiute Parts

MP6KE68AE3

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1207MP6KE68AE3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P6KE68A

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 8738P6KE68A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MP6KE68AE3 are qualified based on the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Criteria:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 58.1V
• Voltage - Breakdown (Min): 64.6V
• Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp: 92V
• Power - Peak Pulse: 600W
• Type: Zener, Unidirectional

Mechanical Compatibility Criteria:

• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package Category: Axial configuration

Current Rating Tolerance: Peak pulse current ratings within the 6.5A to 6.8A range are acceptable for general-purpose TVS applications, as this variation falls within standard manufacturing tolerances for this device category.

The P6KE68A from Fairchild Semiconductor meets all electrical parameters and operates within compatible mechanical specifications, making it a direct functional equivalent despite packaging designation differences (DO-15 vs. T-18 axial).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection (MP6KE68AE3): The MP6KE68AE3 is the specified component and remains the first choice for applications requiring MIL-PRF-19500 military qualification. This device carries active product status and maintains full compliance with military-grade specifications. Current inventory of 1,140 units supports immediate procurement.

Substitute Selection (P6KE68A): The P6KE68A from Fairchild Semiconductor is electrically equivalent and functionally interchangeable for general-purpose TVS applications. This substitute is appropriate when:

• MP6KE68AE3 availability is constrained
• Military qualification is not a design requirement
• Extended operating temperature range (-50°C to 175°C) is beneficial
• DO-15 axial package footprint is compatible with circuit board layout

Both devices maintain identical voltage parameters (58.1V standoff, 92V clamping) and power ratings (600W peak pulse). The P6KE68A provides higher peak pulse current (6.8A vs. 6.5A), which represents a performance advantage. Inventory availability for P6KE68A is significantly higher at 8,707 units.

Compliance Considerations: Both parts carry EAR99 ECCN classification and HTSUS code 8541.10.0080. The MP6KE68AE3 is RoHS non-compliant, while RoHS status for P6KE68A is not specified in provided data. Verify RoHS compliance requirements for your specific application before final selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P6KE68A directly replace the MP6KE68AE3 in a circuit board?

A: Electrical substitution is valid. Both devices provide identical voltage protection parameters (58.1V standoff, 92V clamping, 600W peak pulse). Physical board layout compatibility depends on whether the DO-15 axial package footprint matches the T-18 axial footprint in your design. Verify lead spacing and mounting hole dimensions before implementation.

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

A: Both are through-hole axial configurations for TVS diodes. T-18 is Microchip's package designation, while DO-15 (DO-204AC) is the industry-standard JEDEC designation used by Fairchild. Physical dimensions and lead spacing may differ slightly. Consult manufacturer datasheets for exact mechanical specifications.

Q: Are there any performance differences between these two parts?

A: The P6KE68A has a slightly higher peak pulse current rating (6.8A vs. 6.5A) and a wider operating temperature range (-50°C to 175°C vs. -65°C to 150°C). These differences represent performance advantages for the Fairchild device in general-purpose applications. Voltage protection characteristics are identical.

Q: Which part should I select if military qualification is required?

A: The MP6KE68AE3 is the only option, as it carries MIL-PRF-19500 military qualification. The P6KE68A does not have military certification and is not suitable for applications with military specification requirements.

Q: What is the impact of the 0.3A current difference between these parts?

A: The 0.3A difference (6.5A vs. 6.8A) falls within standard manufacturing tolerances for TVS diodes in this voltage class. For general-purpose overvoltage protection, this variation does not affect functional performance. Both devices clamp at identical voltage levels and dissipate the same peak pulse power (600W).

Q: Can I use these parts interchangeably in existing designs?

A: Electrical interchangeability is confirmed for general-purpose TVS applications. Mechanical interchangeability requires verification of package footprint compatibility. If your circuit board is designed for T-18 axial leads, confirm that DO-15 lead spacing and diameter are compatible before substitution.