SA26CA-B Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SA26CA-B is a bidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode manufactured by Littelfuse, designed for general-purpose transient protection applications. This through-hole component operates with a 26V reverse standoff voltage and provides peak pulse power dissipation of 500W. The part is currently in active production status with RoHS3 compliance and unlimited moisture sensitivity rating. Substitute parts are identified to provide equivalent or enhanced protection characteristics for applications requiring component alternatives due to inventory availability, supply chain considerations, or performance optimization within the same electrical and mechanical specifications.

Substiute Parts

SA26CA-B

LittelfuseIn Stock: 946SA26CA-B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P6KE30CA

Diotec SemiconductorIn Stock: 33025P6KE30CA Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the SA26CA-B is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Voltage Rating Compatibility: Reverse standoff voltage within ±5% tolerance (25.6V–26.4V range acceptable)
• Breakdown Voltage: Minimum breakdown voltage between 28.5V and 28.9V
• Clamping Voltage: Maximum clamping voltage at Ipp between 41.4V and 42.1V
• Peak Pulse Current: Minimum 12.1A at 10/1000µs pulse width
• Peak Pulse Power: Minimum 500W dissipation capability
• Package Compatibility: DO-204AC (DO-15) axial through-hole configuration
• Bidirectional Operation: Single-channel bidirectional protection
• Temperature Range: Operating range of -50°C to 175°C or better

The P6KE30CA meets these substitution criteria with equivalent voltage ratings, enhanced peak pulse current (15A), and increased power dissipation (600W), while maintaining identical package and mounting specifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the SA26CA-B and P6KE30CA are active production components suitable for general-purpose transient voltage suppression. The SA26CA-B carries RoHS3 compliance certification with REACH unaffected status. The P6KE30CA is not subject to RoHS classification and has vendor-undefined REACH status.

Selection between these parts should be based on:

• Compliance Requirements: If RoHS3 certification is mandatory, the SA26CA-B is the specified choice
• Performance Margin: The P6KE30CA provides 24% higher peak pulse current (15A vs. 12.1A) and 20% higher power dissipation (600W vs. 500W), offering enhanced transient protection capability
• Temperature Range: The SA26CA-B supports operation down to -55°C; the P6KE30CA operates to -50°C minimum
• Supply Availability: Both parts are in active stock; selection may depend on inventory status and lead time requirements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P6KE30CA directly replace the SA26CA-B in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both components share identical voltage ratings within acceptable tolerance, the same DO-15 axial package, and equivalent bidirectional protection characteristics. The P6KE30CA provides enhanced current and power ratings, making it functionally compatible for the same application circuit.

Q: What is the significance of the voltage parameters in substitution?

A: The reverse standoff voltage (26V / 25.6V) determines the threshold at which the TVS diode remains non-conducting. The breakdown voltage (28.9V / 28.5V) defines the transition point. The clamping voltage (42.1V / 41.4V) specifies the maximum voltage the diode will allow across the protected circuit during a transient event. All three parameters must remain within specified tolerances to ensure equivalent protection.

Q: Are there temperature range limitations when substituting?

A: The SA26CA-B operates from -55°C to 175°C, while the P6KE30CA operates from -50°C to 175°C. If the application requires operation below -50°C, the SA26CA-B is required. For standard industrial and commercial temperature ranges, both parts are equivalent.

Q: Does package compatibility affect substitution?

A: No. Both parts use the DO-204AC (DO-15) axial through-hole package. Physical dimensions, lead spacing, and PCB footprint are identical, allowing direct board-level substitution without layout modifications.

Q: What does "bidirectional" mean in the context of these TVS diodes?

A: Bidirectional TVS diodes protect against transient overvoltage in both polarities. A single bidirectional channel provides protection whether the transient is positive or negative relative to ground, making these components suitable for AC signal lines and differential protection applications.

Q: How do peak pulse current and power ratings affect component selection?

A: Peak pulse current (Ipp) and power dissipation determine the maximum transient energy the diode can safely suppress. The P6KE30CA's higher ratings (15A, 600W vs. 12.1A, 500W) allow it to handle larger transient events without degradation. For applications with known transient magnitudes, either part may be suitable; for margin-critical designs, the P6KE30CA is preferred.