ELF-20N016A Common Mode Choke Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The ELF-20N016A is a 2-line common mode choke manufactured by Panasonic Electronic Components, rated for 1.6A maximum current with 212mOhm typical DC resistance. This through-hole component is designed for electromagnetic interference (EMI) filtering in power line applications. The part is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for new designs and ongoing production requirements.

Substiute Parts

ELF-20N016A

Panasonic Electronic ComponentsIn Stock: 833ELF-20N016A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

744862120

Würth ElektronikIn Stock: 837744862120 Datasheet

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B82734R2172B030

EPCOS - TDK ElectronicsIn Stock: 9215B82734R2172B030 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the ELF-20N016A is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Number of Lines: Must be 2-line configuration
• Mounting Type: Must be through-hole
• Package Configuration: Must be vertical, 4 PC pin
• Current Rating: Must support minimum 1.6A operation
• DC Resistance: Must not exceed 212mOhm significantly to maintain thermal and performance characteristics
• Physical Footprint: Dimensional compatibility with PCB layout constraints

The two identified substitutes meet these core electrical and mechanical requirements while offering improved product status and compliance profiles.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

B82734R2172B030 (EPCOS - TDK Electronics) is the primary substitute for the ELF-20N016A. This part maintains current rating compatibility at 1.7A, exceeding the original 1.6A specification. DC resistance at 320mOhm (Typ) is within acceptable tolerance of the original 212mOhm. The part is active in production, ROHS3 compliant, and carries multiple international approvals (ENEC, UR, VDE), making it suitable for regulated applications. Physical dimensions are comparable, with height at 1.220" (31.00mm) matching the original footprint closely.

744862120 (Würth Elektronik) serves as a secondary substitute for applications with reduced current requirements. This part is rated for 400mA maximum current, which is below the original 1.6A specification. However, it offers the smallest physical footprint (0.669" L x 0.433" W) and is ROHS3 compliant with 400V AC rating. The elevated DC resistance at 2Ohm represents a significant increase from the original specification and may impact thermal performance in high-current scenarios.

For new designs requiring full compatibility with the original ELF-20N016A electrical specifications, B82734R2172B030 is the recommended selection. The 744862120 is suitable only for applications where current requirements do not exceed 400mA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 744862120 directly replace the ELF-20N016A in all applications?

A: No. The 744862120 is rated for 400mA maximum current, while the ELF-20N016A is rated for 1.6A. This substitute is only suitable for applications operating at or below 400mA. Additionally, the DC resistance of 2Ohm is significantly higher than the original 212mOhm, which may cause excessive heat dissipation in current-limited designs.

Q: What are the physical footprint differences between substitutes?

A: The ELF-20N016A measures 0.787" L x 1.260" W x 1.181" H. The 744862120 is smaller at 0.669" L x 0.433" W x 0.669" H, while the B82734R2172B030 is larger at 1.280" L x 0.827" W x 1.220" H. PCB layout verification is required before substitution.

Q: Are both substitutes RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both the 744862120 and B82734R2172B030 are ROHS3 compliant, whereas the original ELF-20N016A is RoHS non-compliant. This represents an improvement in environmental compliance for new designs.

Q: Which substitute has the best regulatory approvals?

A: The B82734R2172B030 carries approvals from ENEC, UR, and VDE, making it suitable for regulated power line applications. The 744862120 does not list specific approval agencies.

Q: How do DC resistance values affect component selection?

A: DC resistance directly impacts thermal performance and power dissipation. The ELF-20N016A has 212mOhm (Typ), the B82734R2172B030 has 320mOhm (Typ), and the 744862120 has 2Ohm. Higher resistance increases heat generation. The B82734R2172B030 remains within acceptable tolerance, while the 744862120 represents a tenfold increase and is unsuitable for high-current applications.

Q: Can I use the B82734R2172B030 in legacy designs without modification?

A: The B82734R2172B030 is electrically compatible with the ELF-20N016A for applications requiring 1.6A operation. However, physical dimensions differ slightly (height 1.220" vs. 1.181"), requiring PCB layout verification. The improved compliance profile (ROHS3, international approvals) makes this the preferred substitute for new production runs.