LC26A Transient Voltage Suppressor Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LC26A is an active Microchip Technology transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for general-purpose overvoltage protection applications. This unidirectional zener-type device features a 26V reverse standoff voltage with a 42.1V maximum clamping voltage and 36A peak pulse current capability in a through-hole DO-13 (DO-202AA) package format. The LC26A is classified as an active product with unlimited moisture sensitivity rating and is suitable for applications requiring transient suppression in the 26V to 28.9V operating range. Substitute parts are identified when the original LC26A becomes unavailable, when alternative packaging formats are required, or when compliance certifications differ from the original specification.

Substiute Parts

LC26A

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 865LC26A Datasheet

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LCE28A

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 2122LCE28A Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the LC26A is determined by electrical parameter compatibility within defined tolerance bands and mechanical package compatibility. The primary substitution criteria are:

Voltage Parameters: The reverse standoff voltage must fall within the application tolerance window. The LC26A operates at 26V standoff with a 28.9V minimum breakdown. Substitute parts must maintain comparable voltage ratings to ensure equivalent protection characteristics without introducing overvoltage or under-clamping conditions.

Current and Power Ratings: Peak pulse current and power dissipation capacity must meet or exceed the original specification. The LC26A handles 36A peak pulse current at 1500W peak power. Substitute parts with equal or superior current handling maintain functional equivalence.

Package and Mounting: Through-hole mounting compatibility is required for direct board-level substitution. The LC26A uses DO-13 (DO-202AA) axial package format. Substitute parts must support equivalent through-hole mounting to ensure mechanical fit and thermal performance.

Temperature Range: Operating temperature specifications must encompass the application environment. The LC26A operates from -65°C to 175°C junction temperature.

Compliance and Certifications: Product status (active), RoHS compliance status, and REACH classification affect long-term availability and regulatory acceptance in target markets.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

LC26A Selection: The LC26A remains the primary choice for applications requiring exact 26V standoff voltage specification with 36A peak pulse current capacity. This part is active and available in bulk packaging. The LC26A is RoHS non-compliant; applications subject to RoHS3 regulatory requirements must select alternative parts.

LCE28A Selection: The LCE28A from Littelfuse serves as a functional substitute when the LC26A is unavailable or when RoHS3 compliance is mandatory. The LCE28A operates at a higher 28V standoff voltage with 31.1V minimum breakdown, resulting in a 3.1V higher clamping voltage (45.5V versus 42.1V). This voltage differential is acceptable for applications with design margin above the LC26A specification. The LCE28A delivers 33A peak pulse current, which is 3A lower than the LC26A but maintains the same 1500W peak power rating. The LCE28A is supplied in cut-tape packaging and is ROHS3 compliant. The operating temperature minimum is -55°C, which is 10°C higher than the LC26A; applications requiring operation below -55°C must retain the LC26A.

Compliance Consideration: Applications operating in markets requiring RoHS3 compliance must use the LCE28A or identify additional compliant alternatives. The LC26A's RoHS non-compliant status restricts its use in regulated environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LCE28A directly replace the LC26A in all applications?

A: The LCE28A is functionally equivalent for most general-purpose transient suppression applications. However, three parameter differences require evaluation: (1) The LCE28A operates at 28V standoff versus 26V, resulting in 3.1V higher clamping voltage; (2) Peak pulse current is 33A versus 36A; (3) Minimum operating temperature is -55°C versus -65°C. Applications with tight voltage margins, high current demands, or low-temperature operation requirements must retain the LC26A.

Q: What is the voltage difference impact between LC26A and LCE28A?

A: The LCE28A's 28V standoff voltage is 2V higher than the LC26A's 26V standoff. The maximum clamping voltage increases from 42.1V to 45.5V, a 3.4V increase. For applications where the protected circuit has a maximum voltage rating below 45.5V, this difference may exceed acceptable design margins. Verify the protected component's absolute maximum voltage rating before substitution.

Q: Are the packages physically compatible?

A: Both parts use through-hole axial package formats. The LC26A uses DO-13 (DO-202AA) package; the LCE28A uses DO-201AA or DO-27 axial package. These packages have similar physical dimensions and pin spacing, supporting direct board-level substitution without PCB modification. Verify specific package dimensions against your PCB layout before final selection.

Q: What is the current rating difference, and does it matter?

A: The LCE28A handles 33A peak pulse current versus the LC26A's 36A. This 3A reduction represents an 8.3% decrease in peak current capacity. For applications with transient currents below 33A, this difference is not significant. Applications with transient currents between 33A and 36A require the LC26A to maintain specified protection margins.

Q: Does RoHS compliance affect electrical performance?

A: RoHS3 compliance affects material composition and manufacturing processes but does not alter the electrical performance specifications of the LCE28A. The LCE28A's electrical parameters remain as specified regardless of RoHS status. RoHS compliance is a regulatory and supply-chain consideration, not an electrical performance factor.

Q: What is the temperature range difference?

A: The LC26A operates from -65°C to 175°C junction temperature; the LCE28A operates from -55°C to 175°C. The 10°C difference at the lower temperature limit affects applications in extreme cold environments. Applications requiring operation below -55°C must use the LC26A.

Q: Can I use the LCE28A in a -65°C to 0°C application?

A: No. The LCE28A's minimum operating temperature is -55°C. Applications requiring operation below -55°C must use the LC26A or identify alternative parts with lower temperature ratings.

Q: How do I verify substitution compatibility for my specific application?

A: Compare your application's requirements against the parameter comparison table. Identify the maximum transient voltage, peak transient current, minimum operating temperature, and regulatory compliance requirements. Confirm that the substitute part's specifications meet or exceed all application requirements. Document the substitution rationale for design records.