SA20C-E3/54 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SA20C-E3/54 is a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division. This bidirectional Zener diode is designed for general-purpose transient voltage suppression applications with a 20V reverse standoff voltage and 35.8V maximum clamping voltage. The part is currently listed as obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for ongoing design support and procurement.

Substiute Parts

SA20C-E3/54

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 815SA20C-E3/54 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SA20CA-E3/54

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 8344SA20CA-E3/54 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

SA20CA

Taiwan Semiconductor CorporationIn Stock: 300263SA20CA Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

SA20CA-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 5709SA20CA-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the SA20C-E3/54 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Reverse Standoff Voltage: 20V (must match)
• Breakdown Voltage (Min): 22.2V (must match)
• Peak Pulse Power: 500W (must match)
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C ~ 175°C (must match or exceed)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (must match)
• Package / Case: DO-204AC / DO-15 (must match)
• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant (must match)

The substitute parts listed below meet all these critical parameters. Variations in clamping voltage and peak pulse current are within acceptable tolerances for this product category and do not prevent functional substitution.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

All three substitute parts are active products with ROHS3 compliance and meet the critical electrical and mechanical parameters of the SA20C-E3/54. Selection should be based on the following factors:

SA20CA-E3/54 (Vishay): Direct manufacturer continuation from Vishay. Maintains the same manufacturer lineage as the original part. Clamping voltage of 32.4V is lower than the original 35.8V, providing tighter voltage regulation. Peak pulse current of 15.4A exceeds the original 14A specification.

SA20CA (Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation): Highest inventory availability with 300,200 pieces in stock. Clamping voltage of 43V is higher than the original specification, suitable for applications requiring higher transient voltage tolerance. Peak pulse current of 16A provides additional margin.

SA20CA-TP (Micro Commercial Co): Clamping voltage of 32.4V and peak pulse current of 15.7A closely match the Vishay substitute. Supplied in cut tape format. Inventory of 5,603 pieces provides adequate availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SA20CA-E3/54 be used as a direct replacement for SA20C-E3/54?

A: Yes. SA20CA-E3/54 meets all critical parameters including reverse standoff voltage (20V), breakdown voltage (22.2V), peak pulse power (500W), operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 175°C), through-hole mounting, DO-204AC (DO-15) package, and ROHS3 compliance. The lower clamping voltage (32.4V vs 35.8V) provides tighter voltage regulation without compromising functionality.

Q: What is the difference between SA20CA and SA20CA-E3/54?

A: Both parts share identical electrical specifications and are manufactured by different suppliers. SA20CA is supplied by Taiwan Semiconductor Corporation in tape and reel format with significantly higher inventory availability. SA20CA-E3/54 is supplied by Vishay in cut tape format. Selection depends on packaging requirements and procurement lead times.

Q: Is the higher clamping voltage of SA20CA (43V) acceptable for this application?

A: Yes. The higher clamping voltage of 43V remains within acceptable design margins for general-purpose transient voltage suppression. This characteristic may be advantageous in applications requiring greater transient voltage tolerance. Verify compatibility with your specific circuit design requirements.

Q: Are all substitute parts available in the same package format?

A: All substitute parts use the DO-204AC (DO-15) axial through-hole package, ensuring mechanical compatibility. Packaging formats differ: SA20CA-E3/54 and SA20CA-TP are supplied in cut tape, while SA20CA is supplied in tape and reel format. These differences affect procurement and handling but do not impact electrical performance.

Q: Do all substitute parts meet RoHS compliance requirements?

A: Yes. All substitute parts are ROHS3 compliant, matching the compliance status of the original SA20C-E3/54.