PKU4515PI DC DC Converter 15V 50W Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PKU4515PI is an isolated module DC DC converter manufactured by Flex Power Modules, designed for commercial ITE applications. This component converts input voltages between 36V and 75V to a regulated 15V output at 3.3A maximum current, delivering 50W of power. The part operates across an extended temperature range of -45°C to 120°C with derating and features adjustable output, remote on/off control, and remote sense capabilities.

The PKU4515PI is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain system continuity, ensure design flexibility, and support long-term product availability for applications currently utilizing this converter.

Substiute Parts

PKU4515PI

Flex Power ModulesIn Stock: 1280PKU4515PI Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PKU4815CPI

Flex Power ModulesIn Stock: 1258PKU4815CPI Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PKU4515PI is determined by strict alignment of electrical and mechanical parameters within the Flex Power Modules product family. The primary substitute, PKU4815CPI, maintains compatibility through the following criteria:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Identical input voltage range (36V – 75V)
• Identical output voltage (15V)
• Same output connector and control interface (Enable, Active Low)
• Identical package form factor (Sixteenth Brick)
• Identical mounting type (Through Hole)
• Identical physical dimensions (1.30" L x 0.90" W, with negligible height variation)

Substitution Logic: The PKU4815CPI is a higher-capacity variant within the same product family. It provides increased output current (5.7A versus 3.3A) and power rating (86W versus 50W), higher isolation voltage (2.25 kV versus 1.5 kV), and improved efficiency (91.6% versus 89.9%). The PKU4815CPI maintains active product status, ensuring ongoing availability and support. All regulatory certifications and compliance standards remain equivalent.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Direct Replacement Applications: The PKU4815CPI serves as a direct substitute for the obsolete PKU4515PI in applications where the original 3.3A output current requirement is maintained. The substitute's higher current rating (5.7A) and power capacity (86W) provide operational margin without requiring circuit redesign. Both parts share identical input voltage specifications, output voltage, package footprint, and mounting configuration.

Regulatory and Compliance Alignment: Both the PKU4515PI and PKU4815CPI maintain equivalent regulatory certifications (CB, CSA, IEC, TUV, UL) and comply with standard 62368-1. Both parts are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, ensuring environmental and safety compliance consistency across substitution.

Product Status Consideration: The PKU4815CPI maintains active product status with confirmed inventory availability (1181 pieces), whereas the PKU4515PI is obsolete. Selection of the PKU4815CPI ensures access to ongoing manufacturer support, technical documentation, and supply chain continuity.

Thermal Performance: The PKU4815CPI operates across a marginally wider temperature range (-40°C to 125°C versus -45°C to 120°C) and delivers improved efficiency (91.6% versus 89.9%), resulting in reduced thermal dissipation and enhanced reliability in temperature-sensitive applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PKU4815CPI be used as a direct replacement for the PKU4515PI in existing designs?

A: Yes. The PKU4815CPI maintains identical input voltage range (36V–75V), output voltage (15V), package form factor (Sixteenth Brick), physical dimensions, mounting type (Through Hole), and control interface (Enable, Active Low). No circuit modifications are required for direct substitution.

Q: What are the key differences between the PKU4515PI and PKU4815CPI?

A: The primary differences are output current capacity (3.3A versus 5.7A), power rating (50W versus 86W), isolation voltage (1.5 kV versus 2.25 kV), efficiency (89.9% versus 91.6%), and product status (obsolete versus active). The PKU4815CPI provides higher performance specifications within the same physical package.

Q: Are the physical dimensions identical between these two parts?

A: The dimensions are functionally equivalent. Both parts measure 1.30" L x 0.90" W with negligible height variation (0.39" versus 0.38"). This 0.01" difference does not impact PCB layout or mechanical integration.

Q: Do both parts share the same certifications and compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both the PKU4515PI and PKU4815CPI hold identical regulatory certifications (CB, CSA, IEC, TUV, UL), comply with standard 62368-1, and maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status.

Q: What is the operating temperature range difference, and does it affect substitution?

A: The PKU4515PI operates from -45°C to 120°C, while the PKU4815CPI operates from -40°C to 125°C. For applications within the -40°C to 120°C range, both parts are functionally equivalent. Applications requiring operation below -40°C require the original PKU4515PI specification.

Q: Why is the PKU4815CPI recommended over the obsolete PKU4515PI?

A: The PKU4815CPI is an active product with confirmed manufacturer support and inventory availability. Obsolete parts face supply discontinuation risk and reduced technical support. The substitute provides superior performance specifications (higher current, power, isolation voltage, and efficiency) within the same package, ensuring long-term design viability.

Q: Are there any circuit design considerations when substituting the PKU4815CPI for the PKU4515PI?

A: No circuit redesign is required. The higher output current and power ratings of the PKU4815CPI provide operational margin. Output filtering, input decoupling, and control circuitry remain compatible with the original design specifications.