1N4480C Zener Diode Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 1N4480C is an active-status Zener diode manufactured by Microchip Technology, rated for 43 V nominal voltage regulation with 1.5 W maximum power dissipation. This through-hole component operates across an extended temperature range of -65°C to 175°C and is packaged in the DO-41 axial configuration. Zener diodes of this specification are used in voltage regulation and protection circuits where precise voltage reference and power handling are required. Substitute parts become necessary when the primary part experiences supply constraints, extended lead times, or when design requirements permit operation within the electrical and mechanical tolerances of alternative manufacturers' offerings.

Substiute Parts

1N4480C

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 12061N4480C Datasheet

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1N4755A

Lumimax Optoelectronic TechnologyIn Stock: 43431N4755A Datasheet

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1N4755A-T50A

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 337521N4755A-T50A Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 1N4480C is permissible with parts that maintain the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Criteria:

• Zener voltage (Vz) nominal rating of 43 V
• Through-hole axial package configuration (DO-41 family)
• Operating temperature range that encompasses or exceeds the application requirements
• Power dissipation capability sufficient for circuit demands

Acceptable Parameter Variations:

• Voltage tolerance may increase from ±2% to ±5% if circuit design permits
• Power rating may decrease from 1.5 W to 1 W if thermal and current requirements allow
• Impedance and reverse leakage characteristics may vary within the substitute part specifications
• Forward voltage characteristics may differ within the specified operating conditions

The substitute parts 1N4755A and 1N4755A-T50A both maintain the 43 V Zener voltage specification and DO-41 through-hole package format, establishing functional equivalence for voltage regulation applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

1N4480C (Microchip Technology): Primary selection for applications requiring ±2% voltage tolerance and 1.5 W power dissipation. Maintains the tightest voltage specification and lowest impedance among the three options. Suitable for precision voltage regulation circuits with higher current demands.

1N4755A (Lumimax Optoelectronic Technology): Acceptable substitute where ±5% voltage tolerance is permissible and power dissipation does not exceed 1 W. Extended operating temperature range to 200°C provides advantage in high-temperature environments. RoHS Compliant status confirms environmental compliance.

1N4755A-T50A (Fairchild Semiconductor): Functionally equivalent to 1N4755A with identical electrical specifications. Highest inventory availability (33,728 pcs) supports supply chain continuity. Suitable for applications accepting ±5% tolerance and 1 W maximum power rating. Extended operating temperature range to 200°C matches 1N4755A capability.

All three parts carry REACH Unaffected status and EAR99 ECCN classification, confirming regulatory compliance for standard commercial applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 1N4755A or 1N4755A-T50A directly replace 1N4480C in all applications?

A: Direct substitution is permissible only when the application circuit design accommodates the parameter differences. The reduced power rating (1 W versus 1.5 W) and increased voltage tolerance (±5% versus ±2%) must be evaluated against circuit requirements. The extended operating temperature range of substitute parts (to 200°C) is compatible with the 1N4480C specification range.

Q: What is the significance of the impedance difference between 1N4480C (40 Ohms) and the substitute parts (70 Ohms)?

A: Impedance affects the dynamic response of the Zener diode under load transients. The 1N4480C exhibits lower impedance, providing superior voltage regulation stability. Substitute parts with 70 Ohms impedance are suitable for applications where transient response requirements are less stringent.

Q: Are the substitute parts physically compatible with the 1N4480C footprint?

A: Yes. All three parts utilize the DO-41 through-hole axial package configuration, ensuring mechanical and pin compatibility on printed circuit boards designed for the 1N4480C.

Q: What is the impact of the ±5% tolerance in substitute parts compared to the ±2% tolerance of the 1N4480C?

A: The ±5% tolerance permits a wider voltage deviation from the 43 V nominal specification. For the 1N4755A and 1N4755A-T50A, the Zener voltage may range from 40.85 V to 45.15 V. Applications requiring tighter voltage regulation must verify that this tolerance range remains acceptable for circuit operation.

Q: How do the reverse leakage characteristics differ between the main part and substitutes?

A: The 1N4480C exhibits 50 nA reverse leakage at 34.4 V, while substitute parts exhibit 5 µA at 32.7 V. The substitute parts demonstrate higher leakage current, which may affect circuit performance in applications sensitive to standby current or requiring minimal reverse current flow.

Q: Which substitute part offers the best supply availability?

A: The 1N4755A-T50A (Fairchild Semiconductor) provides the highest inventory level at 33,728 pcs, compared to 4,280 pcs for 1N4755A. This availability advantage supports rapid procurement and supply chain resilience.