EPSON MA-505 20.0000M-C3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The EPSON MA-505 20.0000M-C3 is a 20 MHz fundamental mode crystal oscillator designed for surface mount applications. This part operates at ±30ppm frequency stability with an 18pF load capacitance and 40 Ohms equivalent series resistance. The MA-505 series is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications. The FA-238 series provides an active production alternative meeting identical electrical specifications while offering improved packaging density.

Substiute Parts

MA-505 20.0000M-C3: ROHS

EPSONIn Stock: 1069MA-505 20.0000M-C3: ROHS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FA-238 20.0000MB-C3

EPSONIn Stock: 740FA-238 20.0000MB-C3 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution between the MA-505 20.0000M-C3 and FA-238 20.0000MB-C3 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Frequency Match: Both parts operate at 20 MHz
• Frequency Stability: Both maintain ±30ppm stability
• Frequency Tolerance: Both specify ±50ppm tolerance
• Load Capacitance: Both require 18pF load capacitance
• Operating Mode: Both operate in fundamental mode
• Operating Temperature Range: Both function across -20°C to 70°C
• Compliance: Both are ROHS3 compliant with MSL 1 rating

The primary differences are packaging geometry and ESR specification, which do not affect electrical compatibility when circuit design accommodates the ESR variance.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The FA-238 20.0000MB-C3 is the appropriate substitute for the obsolete MA-505 20.0000M-C3 based on the following factors:

• Product Status: The MA-505 is obsolete, while the FA-238 maintains active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.
• Electrical Equivalence: Both parts meet identical frequency, stability, tolerance, and load capacitance specifications required for circuit operation.
• Compliance Alignment: Both parts carry ROHS3 compliance and MSL 1 rating, maintaining regulatory and environmental standards.
• ESR Consideration: The FA-238 specifies 60 Ohms ESR compared to the MA-505's 40 Ohms. Circuit designs must accommodate this 20 Ohm increase in series resistance to ensure oscillation margin and frequency accuracy.
• Packaging Transition: The FA-238 employs a compact 4-SMD no-lead package (3.20mm x 2.50mm) versus the MA-505's larger 4-SOJ package (12.70mm x 5.08mm). PCB layout modifications are required to accommodate the reduced footprint and height profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the FA-238 20.0000MB-C3 directly replace the MA-505 20.0000M-C3 without circuit modification?

A: Electrical substitution is valid for frequency, stability, tolerance, and load capacitance specifications. However, the 20 Ohm ESR increase must be evaluated in the oscillator circuit design to confirm adequate startup margin and frequency accuracy. PCB layout changes are mandatory due to different package geometries and footprints.

Q: What is the impact of the ESR difference between these parts?

A: The MA-505 specifies 40 Ohms ESR while the FA-238 specifies 60 Ohms ESR. Higher ESR increases power consumption and may reduce oscillation margin in marginal circuit designs. Verify that the oscillator circuit design accommodates the higher ESR value through simulation or empirical testing.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences between these parts?

A: Both parts are ROHS3 compliant and carry MSL 1 (unlimited moisture sensitivity) ratings. No compliance differences exist between the two parts.

Q: What are the key packaging differences?

A: The MA-505 uses a 4-SOJ package measuring 12.70mm x 5.08mm with 4.60mm maximum height. The FA-238 uses a compact 4-SMD no-lead package measuring 3.20mm x 2.50mm with 0.70mm maximum height. The FA-238 offers significant space savings but requires PCB redesign for footprint compatibility.

Q: Is the FA-238 suitable for high-volume production?

A: Yes. The FA-238 maintains active production status with documented inventory availability, making it suitable for ongoing production applications. The MA-505's obsolete status makes the FA-238 the recommended choice for new designs and production continuity.