Microchip Technology 681-5

Overview

681-5 from Microsemi is a standard recovery center-tap rectifier assembly in an electrically isolated aluminum case, rated for 15 A average DC output current at TC = 55 °C, 500 V working peak reverse voltage (VRWM), and 150 A non-repetitive surge current, used in industrial AC/DC power supplies requiring high thermal robustness and controlled avalanche behavior.

For engineers reviewing the 681-5 datasheet, 681-5 pinout, 681-5 application, or 681-5 equivalent, key selection criteria include VRWM = 500 V, IO = 15 A @ TC = 55 °C, RθJC = 6.0 °C/W, trr not specified (standard recovery), and center-tap positive (P) terminal configuration in ND package.

Technical Context

This rectifier assembly integrates two series-connected diodes with a shared center tap, enabling full-wave bridgeless rectification from single-phase AC input. Its aluminum case provides electrical isolation and low thermal resistance (RθJC = 6.0 °C/W), supporting conduction at junction temperatures up to +150 °C.

Rated for 500 V VRWM and 150 A IFSM, it delivers 1.2 V forward voltage per leg at 10 A, with reverse leakage ≤10 µA at 25 °C and ≤200 µA at 100 °C - optimized for line-frequency (50/60 Hz) power conversion where fast recovery is not required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: ND - hermetically sealed, electrically isolated aluminum case with center-tap positive (P) configuration; terminals: AC (alternating current input), + (cathode-positive output), – (anode-negative output); weight ≈30 g.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar rectifier assembly applications.

Compared with VS-15EWH05 and MBR1550CT, the 681-5 uniquely combines 500 V VRWM, center-tap positive configuration, electrically isolated aluminum packaging, and 150 A surge rating - making it irreplaceable in high-reliability, thermally constrained, line-voltage rectification where modularity and isolation are mandatory.

Availability

681-5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial AC/DC power supplies, motor drive DC bus rectification, and welding equipment power stages requiring stable component supply, long-life thermal performance, and RoHS-compliant manufacturing.

Supply support for 681-5 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microsemi Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) designs high-reliability analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for aerospace, defense, industrial, and communications markets.

The 681(e3) series was developed specifically for ruggedized, high-current line-frequency rectification in mission-critical power systems where thermal stability, electrical isolation, and surge resilience are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the maximum junction temperature rating for the 681-5?

The 681-5 has a maximum junction temperature (TJ) rating of +150 °C, verified per Microsemi's RF01151 datasheet Rev A. This allows continuous operation in high-ambient environments when properly heatsinked. Thermal design must maintain TJ ≤ +150 °C using the stated RθJC = 6.0 °C/W and actual case temperature measurements. The 681-5 achieves this through its aluminum case construction and controlled avalanche behavior.

Does the 681-5 have a specified reverse recovery time (trr)?

No, the 681-5 does not specify reverse recovery time (trr) because it is a standard recovery rectifier - unlike the fast-recovery 689-5 variant, which lists trr = 500 ns. The 681-5 is intended for 50/60 Hz line-frequency applications where trr is not a design constraint. Its electrical characteristics table explicitly omits trr, confirming its classification as a standard recovery device. Engineers selecting the 681-5 should verify that switching losses and EMI remain acceptable in their target frequency range.

What does the "P" suffix mean in the 681-5 part number?

The "P" in 681-5 denotes center-tap positive (P) terminal configuration, meaning the center tap is the cathode (+) output terminal, while the two outer terminals serve as AC inputs. This configuration is defined in the Microsemi part nomenclature guide and matches the pinout shown in the ND package drawing. The 681-5 uses this arrangement to deliver a positive DC rail in full-wave rectification topologies. Alternative configurations include "N" (center-tap negative) and "D" (doubler).

Is the 681-5 RoHS compliant?

Yes, the 681-5 is RoHS compliant, indicated by the "e3" suffix in its full orderable part number (681-5P-e3). Per the RF01151 datasheet, e3 signifies RoHS-compliant matte tin plating on terminals. The device meets Directive 2011/65/EU requirements, including lead content <1000 ppm. Compliance is verified through material declarations and test reports maintained by Microsemi (now Microchip). The 681-5 remains suitable for export to EU and other regulated markets.

What is the thermal resistance from junction to case (RθJC) for the 681-5?

The 681-5 has a thermal resistance from junction to case (RθJC) of 6.0 °C/W, as published in the Maximum Ratings table of the RF01151 datasheet. This value reflects the efficiency of heat transfer from the silicon die to the aluminum case surface and is critical for calculating required heatsink size. It assumes proper mounting torque and thermal interface material. Because the 681-5 uses an electrically isolated aluminum case, RθJC directly determines system-level thermal performance without additional insulators.