SA14A-E3/73 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SA14A-E3/73 is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division. This through-hole component operates with a 14V reverse standoff voltage and provides 23.2V maximum clamping voltage at peak pulse current. The device is designed for general-purpose transient voltage suppression applications and is currently in active product status with 32,300 units available in inventory.

Equivalent and substitute parts are necessary when the primary component becomes unavailable, when supply chain constraints occur, or when design flexibility is required across manufacturing sources while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

SA14A-E3/73

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 32319SA14A-E3/73 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SA14A

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 300422SA14A Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the SA14A-E3/73 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Voltage - Reverse Standoff: 14V (Typ)
• Voltage - Breakdown: 15.6V (Min)
• Voltage - Clamping: 23.2V (Max) @ Ipp
• Current - Peak Pulse: 21.6A minimum (10/1000µs)
• Power - Peak Pulse: 500W
• Package / Case: DO-204AC (DO-15), Axial, Through Hole
• Type: Zener, Unidirectional (1 channel)
• Operating Temperature: -55°C to 175°C (TJ)

The SA14A manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductor meets these electrical and mechanical specifications and qualifies as a direct substitute. Both devices share identical voltage ratings, clamping characteristics, and package configuration, enabling pin-for-pin and functional replacement in circuit applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SA14A manufactured by Fairchild Semiconductor is electrically and mechanically equivalent to the SA14A-E3/73. Both devices are ROHS3 compliant and share identical export classification (EAR99) and tariff codes (HTSUS 8541.10.0080).

The primary consideration for component selection is product availability and supply status. The SA14A-E3/73 (Vishay) maintains active product status with substantial inventory (32,300 units). The SA14A (Fairchild) is listed as obsolete, indicating limited or discontinued availability.

For new designs or applications requiring long-term supply assurance, the SA14A-E3/73 is the preferred selection. The Fairchild SA14A may be considered only when the Vishay part is unavailable and existing inventory of the Fairchild device is confirmed through authorized distributors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SA14A (Fairchild) be used as a direct replacement for the SA14A-E3/73 (Vishay)?

A: Yes. Both devices are electrically and mechanically equivalent. They share identical voltage ratings (14V standoff, 15.6V breakdown, 23.2V clamping), peak pulse current specifications (21.6A minimum), power dissipation (500W), operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C), and DO-204AC (DO-15) axial through-hole package configuration. Pin-for-pin and functional replacement is supported.

Q: What is the difference in peak pulse current between the two parts?

A: The SA14A-E3/73 specifies 21.6A peak pulse current, while the SA14A specifies 22A. This 0.4A difference is within acceptable tolerance for general-purpose TVS applications and does not affect substitution eligibility.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences?

A: No. Both devices are ROHS3 compliant, carry the same ECCN classification (EAR99), and share identical HTSUS tariff codes (8541.10.0080).

Q: Why is the Fairchild SA14A listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued production. This does not affect the electrical or mechanical performance of existing inventory but may limit future availability. Vishay's SA14A-E3/73 remains in active production.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in PCB designs?

A: Yes. The identical DO-204AC (DO-15) axial package and through-hole mounting configuration enable direct PCB footprint compatibility. No design modifications are required for substitution.

Q: What applications are these TVS diodes suitable for?

A: Both devices are rated for general-purpose transient voltage suppression. Specific application suitability must be determined by circuit requirements and the transient voltage profile of the protected circuit.