EA-21842 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The EA-21842 is an electret condenser microphone manufactured by Knowles, designed for analog audio capture applications requiring omnidirectional pickup patterns. This component operates across a frequency range of 100 Hz to 4.8 kHz with a sensitivity specification of -59dB ±3dB at 74dB SPL. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

EA-21842

KnowlesIn Stock: 963EA-21842 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

EA-21842-C36

KnowlesIn Stock: 840EA-21842-C36 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the EA-21842 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Microphone Type: Electret Condenser construction
• Output Configuration: Analog signal output
• Directional Pattern: Omnidirectional pickup
• Frequency Response: 100 Hz ~ 4.8 kHz operating range
• Sensitivity Level: -59dB ±3dB @ 74dB SPL
• Electrical Characteristics: 4.6 kOhms impedance, 1.3 V rated voltage, 50 µA supply current
• Physical Form Factor: 0.219" L x 0.157" W x 0.089" H maximum, rectangular shape
• Termination Method: Solder pads for PCB integration

The EA-21842-C36 meets all substitution criteria as a direct equivalent component from the same manufacturer, with identical electrical and acoustic specifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The EA-21842-C36 is the direct substitute for the obsolete EA-21842. Both components share identical electrical specifications, acoustic characteristics, and physical dimensions. The EA-21842-C36 carries Active product status and ROHS3 compliance certification, making it the appropriate selection for new designs and replacement applications.

The primary design consideration is port location: the original EA-21842 features a top-mounted port, while the EA-21842-C36 has a side-mounted port. PCB layout and acoustic chamber design must accommodate this geometric difference to maintain equivalent acoustic performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can EA-21842-C36 be used as a direct replacement for EA-21842?

A: Yes. Both components are electrically and acoustically identical with matching impedance, sensitivity, frequency response, and supply requirements. Port location differs (top versus side), requiring PCB layout verification.

Q: What is the significance of the port location difference?

A: Port location affects acoustic chamber design and PCB mounting orientation. The side-mounted port on EA-21842-C36 requires different mechanical integration compared to the top-mounted port on EA-21842. Acoustic performance remains equivalent when properly integrated.

Q: Why is EA-21842 classified as obsolete?

A: The EA-21842 has been discontinued by the manufacturer. The EA-21842-C36 is the active production equivalent and should be used for all new designs and ongoing support.

Q: Does EA-21842-C36 meet RoHS compliance requirements?

A: Yes. EA-21842-C36 is ROHS3 compliant. RoHS status for the original EA-21842 is not specified in available documentation.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: The EA-21842 is supplied in standard packaging, while EA-21842-C36 is supplied in bulk packaging. Both use identical solder pad termination for PCB assembly.