P6KE68-B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The P6KE68-B is a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for general-purpose voltage clamping applications. This unidirectional Zener diode operates with a reverse standoff voltage of 58.1V and provides peak pulse power handling of 600W in a through-hole DO-204AC (DO-15) package. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

P6KE68-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 748P6KE68-B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P6KE68A

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 8738P6KE68A Datasheet

DirectRFQ

P6KE68A-B

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 1188P6KE68A-B Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the P6KE68-B are qualified based on the following critical parameters that define functional equivalence:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ): 58.1V
• Unidirectional Zener diode topology with single channel
• Through-hole mounting in DO-204AC (DO-15) axial package
• Peak pulse power rating of 600W
• General-purpose TVS application category
• Operating temperature range compatibility

The identified substitutes maintain these core electrical and mechanical specifications, ensuring direct functional replacement in existing circuit designs. Variations in voltage breakdown characteristics and peak pulse current ratings remain within acceptable tolerance bands for the application category.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

P6KE68A-B (Littelfuse Inc.) is the primary substitute for the obsolete P6KE68-B. Both parts are manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., share identical reverse standoff voltage specifications (58.1V), and maintain the same operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 175°C). The P6KE68A-B is currently in active production status with ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected certification. The clamping voltage is reduced from 96.6V to 92V, representing a 4.8% decrease that remains within acceptable tolerance for general-purpose TVS applications.

P6KE68A (Fairchild Semiconductor) serves as a secondary substitute option. This part maintains the 58.1V reverse standoff voltage and 600W peak pulse power rating in the same DO-15 package. The operating temperature range is slightly reduced to -50°C ~ 175°C (5°C lower minimum), and the clamping voltage is 92V. This part is currently in active production status.

For applications requiring the original 96.6V clamping voltage specification, neither substitute provides an exact match. Selection between P6KE68A-B and P6KE68A should be based on supply chain availability, manufacturing source preference, and specific circuit tolerance requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can P6KE68A-B directly replace P6KE68-B in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts share the same reverse standoff voltage (58.1V), unidirectional Zener topology, DO-204AC (DO-15) through-hole package, and 600W peak pulse power rating. The primary difference is the reduced clamping voltage (92V vs. 96.6V), which is acceptable for general-purpose TVS applications within the specified tolerance band.

Q: What is the difference between P6KE68A-B and P6KE68A?

A: P6KE68A-B is manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., while P6KE68A is manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductor. Both maintain the 58.1V reverse standoff voltage and 600W power rating. The Littelfuse part offers a wider operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C vs. -50°C to 175°C) and includes ROHS3 compliance certification.

Q: Are there package compatibility concerns when substituting these parts?

A: No. All three parts use the DO-204AC (DO-15) axial through-hole package. Physical dimensions and pin configurations are identical, allowing direct PCB mounting without modification.

Q: Why is the clamping voltage lower in the substitute parts?

A: The P6KE68A variants are rated at 92V clamping voltage compared to the original 96.6V. This represents a design variation within the P6KE series and remains within acceptable operating parameters for general-purpose transient suppression applications.

Q: Which substitute should be selected for new designs?

A: P6KE68A-B (Littelfuse Inc.) is recommended for new designs due to active production status, extended operating temperature range, and ROHS3 compliance. P6KE68A (Fairchild Semiconductor) is an alternative if supply or cost considerations favor the Fairchild source.