KEMET T496C156M016AS Molded Tantalum Capacitor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The KEMET T496C156M016AS is a 15 µF molded tantalum capacitor rated at 16 V with ±20% tolerance, housed in a 2312 (6032 Metric) surface mount package. This component features a fail-safe design with built-in fuse protection and operates across the temperature range of -55°C to 125°C. The part is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent alternatives for ongoing procurement and design continuity.

Substiute Parts

T496C156M016AS

KEMETIn Stock: 960T496C156M016AS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

T496C156M016ATE2K0

KEMETIn Stock: 880T496C156M016ATE2K0 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

T496C156K016AT

KEMETIn Stock: 1091T496C156K016AT Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the T496C156M016AS is determined by strict equivalence in the following critical parameters:

Primary Equivalence Criteria:

• Capacitance value: 15 µF (exact match required)
• Voltage rating: 16 V (exact match required)
• Package / Case: 2312 (6032 Metric) (exact match required)
• Mounting type: Surface Mount (exact match required)
• Operating temperature range: -55°C to 125°C (exact match required)

Secondary Compatibility Parameters:

• Tolerance: ±20% or tighter (±10% is acceptable as a tighter specification)
• ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance): 2 Ohm specification available in active alternatives
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 1 (Unlimited) maintained across all substitutes
• Fail-safe design with built-in fuse maintained across all substitutes

The substitute parts listed below meet all primary equivalence criteria and maintain or improve secondary specifications. Tolerance differences reflect manufacturing capability improvements in active product lines.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

T496C156M016ATE2K0 (Direct Substitute - Recommended for Direct Replacement)

This part is the primary substitute for the obsolete T496C156M016AS. It maintains identical electrical specifications (15 µF, ±20% tolerance, 16 V rating) and mechanical compatibility (2312 package, surface mount). The T496C156M016ATE2K0 is an active product with ROHS3 compliance, addressing regulatory requirements that the original part does not meet. ESR specification of 2 Ohm is now documented, providing improved performance characterization. Lifetime rating of 2000 Hrs @ 85°C is specified. Packaging is supplied as Tape & Reel (TR), suitable for automated assembly processes.

T496C156K016AT (Parametric Equivalent - Alternative for Tighter Tolerance Requirements)

This part provides identical core functionality with an improved tolerance specification of ±10% compared to the original ±20%. All other electrical and mechanical parameters remain equivalent. The T496C156K016AT is active and ROHS3 compliant. This option is suitable for applications where tighter capacitance tolerance is beneficial or required. ESR and lifetime specifications match the direct substitute. Packaging is Tape & Reel (TR).

Both substitute parts are manufactured by KEMET within the T496 series, ensuring design continuity and supply chain consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can T496C156M016ATE2K0 be used as a direct replacement for T496C156M016AS?

A: Yes. The T496C156M016ATE2K0 maintains identical capacitance (15 µF), voltage rating (16 V), tolerance (±20%), package (2312), and operating temperature range (-55°C to 125°C). Physical dimensions and mounting type are identical. The substitute is an active product with improved regulatory compliance (ROHS3).

Q: What is the difference between T496C156M016ATE2K0 and T496C156K016AT?

A: The primary difference is tolerance specification. T496C156M016ATE2K0 maintains ±20% tolerance matching the original part. T496C156K016AT provides ±10% tolerance, which is a tighter specification. Both parts are electrically and mechanically equivalent in all other parameters. Selection depends on tolerance requirements for the specific application.

Q: Are the physical dimensions identical across all three parts?

A: Yes. All three parts use the 2312 (6032 Metric) package with identical dimensions: 0.236" L x 0.126" W (6.00mm x 3.20mm) and maximum seated height of 0.110" (2.80mm). PCB layout and assembly tooling remain unchanged.

Q: What is the significance of the ESR specification in the substitute parts?

A: ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) of 2 Ohm is specified for both substitute parts. The original part does not have a documented ESR value. This specification in the active alternatives provides improved performance characterization and allows for more precise circuit analysis and design validation.

Q: Why is RoHS compliance important for this substitution?

A: The original T496C156M016AS is RoHS non-compliant, while both substitute parts are ROHS3 compliant. This compliance is increasingly required for products sold in regulated markets and for integration into systems with RoHS requirements. Using compliant substitutes ensures regulatory alignment and supply chain compatibility.

Q: Are the packaging formats interchangeable?

A: The original part is supplied in bulk packaging, while both substitutes are supplied as Tape & Reel (TR). Tape & Reel format is standard for automated assembly processes. If bulk packaging is required, contact the manufacturer for availability. The electrical and mechanical specifications remain identical regardless of packaging format.

Q: What is Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited)?

A: MSL 1 (Unlimited) indicates that the component has no moisture sensitivity restrictions. The part can be stored and handled without special moisture control measures, simplifying logistics and inventory management.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in existing designs?

A: Yes, for designs currently using T496C156M016AS. Both substitute parts meet all primary equivalence criteria. For new designs, either substitute is acceptable. The choice between T496C156M016ATE2K0 and T496C156K016AT depends on tolerance requirements specific to the application.