TPC18HM3/87A Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TPC18HM3/87A is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division. This component is designed for transient overvoltage protection in automotive applications, featuring a 14.5V reverse standoff voltage and 26.5V maximum clamping voltage. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing design support and production continuity.

Substiute Parts

TPC18HM3/87A

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 886TPC18HM3/87A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TPC18AHM3_A/I

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 1033TPC18AHM3_A/I Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TPC18HM3/87A is determined by the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Criteria:

• Reverse standoff voltage within acceptable tolerance of 14.5V
• Clamping voltage at peak pulse current compatible with circuit protection requirements
• Peak pulse current rating sufficient for transient suppression
• Peak pulse power rating of 1500W maintained
• Operating temperature range of -65°C to 185°C (TJ)

Mechanical & Compliance Criteria:

• Surface mount package type (TO-277A SMPC)
• Automotive grade classification
• AEC-Q101 qualification
• ROHS3 compliance
• Unidirectional zener diode configuration

The substitute part TPC18AHM3_A/I meets these criteria while offering active product status and improved availability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The TPC18AHM3_A/I is a direct substitute for the obsolete TPC18HM3/87A. Both components share identical base product designation (TPC18), series classification (PAR®, eSMP®), and core functional specifications. The substitute maintains full automotive grade compliance with AEC-Q101 qualification and ROHS3 certification.

The primary advantage of TPC18AHM3_A/I is active product status with confirmed inventory availability (974 pcs), compared to the obsolete status of the original part. Electrical parameters remain within compatible ranges: the substitute exhibits a slightly higher reverse standoff voltage (15.3V vs 14.5V) and marginally lower clamping voltage (25.2V vs 26.5V), with equivalent peak pulse power rating of 1500W. Peak pulse current is improved (59.5A vs 56.6A).

Both components utilize identical TO-277A (SMPC) surface mount packaging and support the full automotive temperature range of -65°C to 185°C. The substitute is supplied in Tape & Reel packaging, standard for production environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can TPC18AHM3_A/I directly replace TPC18HM3/87A in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both components are unidirectional zener TVS diodes with identical package geometry (TO-277A SMPC), mounting type (surface mount), and thermal operating range (-65°C to 185°C). Electrical parameters are compatible within the specified tolerance bands for transient voltage suppression applications.

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

A: The substitute exhibits a reverse standoff voltage of 15.3V compared to 14.5V in the original, and a clamping voltage of 25.2V versus 26.5V. Peak pulse current is 59.5A versus 56.6A. Both maintain 1500W peak pulse power rating. These variations remain within acceptable substitution parameters for TVS diode applications.

Q: Are both parts automotive qualified?

A: Yes. Both TPC18HM3/87A and TPC18AHM3_A/I carry automotive grade classification with AEC-Q101 qualification, meeting automotive industry reliability and quality standards.

Q: What is the significance of product status (Obsolete vs Active)?

A: The original part is classified as obsolete, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited availability. The substitute is active with confirmed inventory, ensuring supply chain continuity for new production and design support.

Q: Are there packaging differences?

A: The original part is supplied in bulk packaging, while the substitute is available in Tape & Reel (TR) format. Both use identical TO-277A (SMPC) component packaging. Tape & Reel format is standard for automated assembly processes.

Q: Do both parts meet RoHS compliance requirements?

A: Yes. Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting environmental and regulatory requirements for electronic component manufacturing and distribution.