P4KE20C-E3/54 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The P4KE20C-E3/54 is a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode from Vishay's TransZorb® series, designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection in through-hole applications. This component features a 16.2V reverse standoff voltage with a 29.1V maximum clamping voltage and 13.7A peak pulse current capability in a DO-204AL (DO-41) axial package. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing design support and component procurement.

Substiute Parts

P4KE20C-E3/54

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 818P4KE20C-E3/54 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P4KE20CA-E3/54

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 981P4KE20CA-E3/54 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the P4KE20C-E3/54 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Voltage Rating Compatibility: Reverse standoff voltage and breakdown voltage must fall within acceptable tolerance ranges for the protected circuit. The P4KE20C-E3/54 operates at 16.2V standoff with 18V minimum breakdown.
• Clamping Voltage Performance: Maximum clamping voltage at peak pulse current must not exceed the maximum allowable transient voltage for downstream components.
• Peak Pulse Current Rating: The 13.7A Ipp capability must be maintained or exceeded to ensure adequate surge suppression.
• Power Dissipation: Peak pulse power rating of 400W must be matched or exceeded.
• Package and Mounting: Through-hole DO-204AL (DO-41) axial configuration is required for mechanical and electrical compatibility.
• Temperature Operating Range: The -55°C to 175°C range must be supported.
• Regulatory Compliance: RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status must be maintained.

The P4KE20CA-E3/54 qualifies as a direct substitute based on these parameters.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The P4KE20CA-E3/54 is the qualified substitute for the obsolete P4KE20C-E3/54. Both components are manufactured by Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division within the TransZorb® series and share identical mechanical packaging (DO-204AL through-hole axial configuration).

The P4KE20CA-E3/54 offers improved specifications: a higher peak pulse current rating (14.4A versus 13.7A) and a lower maximum clamping voltage (27.7V versus 29.1V), providing enhanced surge suppression performance. Both parts maintain identical power dissipation capacity (400W) and operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C).

Regulatory compliance is equivalent: both parts are RoHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. The substitute part carries active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability compared to the obsolete original part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P4KE20CA-E3/54 be used as a direct replacement for P4KE20C-E3/54?

A: Yes. Both parts are Vishay TransZorb® TVS diodes with identical package geometry (DO-204AL), mounting type (through-hole), and operating temperature range. The substitute offers equivalent or superior electrical performance across all critical parameters.

Q: What are the key differences between these two parts?

A: The P4KE20CA-E3/54 has a slightly higher reverse standoff voltage (17.1V vs. 16.2V), higher breakdown voltage (19V vs. 18V), lower clamping voltage (27.7V vs. 29.1V), and higher peak pulse current capability (14.4A vs. 13.7A). These differences represent improved performance characteristics.

Q: Are there any packaging differences?

A: Both parts use the DO-204AL (DO-41) axial through-hole package. The P4KE20CA-E3/54 is supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) packaging, while the original part number does not specify packaging format. This does not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility.

Q: Why is the original part obsolete?

A: The P4KE20C-E3/54 is classified as obsolete by Vishay. The P4KE20CA-E3/54 represents the current active equivalent within the TransZorb® product line.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory requirements?

A: Yes. Both the P4KE20C-E3/54 and P4KE20CA-E3/54 are RoHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting equivalent regulatory standards for electronic component use.