ELC-3FN680M Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The ELC-3FN680M is a 68 µH unshielded surface mount inductor manufactured by Panasonic Electronic Components, rated for 170 mA with a DC resistance of 4.2Ohm. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing design support and production continuity. The nonstandard package and specific electrical characteristics require careful parameter matching when selecting substitute components.

Substiute Parts

ELC-3FN680M

Panasonic Electronic ComponentsIn Stock: 915ELC-3FN680M Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

7447732168

Würth ElektronikIn Stock: 8377447732168 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the ELC-3FN680M is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Matching Criteria:

• Inductance value: 68 µH (tolerance range ±20% acceptable)
• Current rating: minimum 170 mA
• Mounting type: Surface Mount
• Shielding configuration: Unshielded
• Inductance test frequency: 100 kHz

Secondary Considerations:

• DC resistance must not exceed application circuit requirements
• Package footprint compatibility with nonstandard 3.20mm x 3.20mm dimensions
• RoHS and MSL compliance for manufacturing and storage conditions

The Würth Elektronik 7447732168 qualifies as a functional substitute based on matching inductance value, exceeding current rating capability, maintaining unshielded configuration, and meeting inductance test frequency specification. The improved DC resistance (1.8Ohm vs. 4.2Ohm) and higher saturation current provide enhanced performance margins.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Würth Elektronik 7447732168 is the qualified substitute for the obsolete ELC-3FN680M based on the following engineering criteria:

Compliance & Status:

• The substitute maintains RoHS3 compliance, exceeding the original RoHS Compliant specification
• Active product status ensures long-term availability and supply chain continuity
• Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited) matches the original component

Electrical Performance:

• Identical 68 µH inductance at 100 kHz test frequency
• Current rating of 300 mA exceeds the 170 mA requirement with 76% margin
• DC resistance of 1.8Ohm maximum is superior to the original 4.2Ohm specification, reducing power dissipation
• Saturation current of 490 mA provides additional operational headroom

Physical Considerations:

• Footprint dimensions (4.60mm x 3.00mm) are comparable to the original (3.20mm x 3.20mm)
• Height increase from 1.20mm to 2.40mm requires PCB layout verification for clearance
• Nonstandard package classification maintained for both components

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 7447732168 be used as a direct replacement for the ELC-3FN680M?

A: The 7447732168 is electrically equivalent for the specified inductance and current requirements. Physical footprint verification is required due to dimensional differences (height 2.40mm vs. 1.20mm). PCB layout clearance must be confirmed before implementation.

Q: What is the significance of the improved DC resistance in the substitute part?

A: The 7447732168 features 1.8Ohm maximum DC resistance compared to 4.2Ohm in the original. This reduces resistive losses and heat generation in the inductor, improving circuit efficiency. Applications sensitive to DCR specifications should evaluate this improvement within their design parameters.

Q: Are there any temperature operating range differences?

A: The ELC-3FN680M does not specify an operating temperature range in the provided data. The 7447732168 operates from -40°C to 125°C. Applications requiring operation outside this range require alternative component evaluation.

Q: How do the inductance tolerances compare?

A: The ELC-3FN680M has ±20% tolerance, while the 7447732168 has ±10% tolerance. The tighter tolerance of the substitute provides improved inductance consistency across production batches, beneficial for precision circuit applications.

Q: What is the self-resonant frequency specification?

A: The 7447732168 specifies a self-resonant frequency of 16 MHz. This parameter was not provided for the original component. Self-resonant frequency defines the upper frequency limit for inductor operation; applications operating near or above 16 MHz require circuit analysis to confirm suitability.

Q: Are packaging and moisture sensitivity considerations identical?

A: Both components maintain Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity precautions are required during storage or handling. Both use nonstandard packages; however, physical dimensions differ and must be verified for PCB compatibility.