SA8.5C-E3/73 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SA8.5C-E3/73 is a TransZorb® Zener-type Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for general-purpose transient protection in through-hole applications. This part operates with an 8.5V reverse standoff voltage and provides 15.9V maximum clamping voltage at peak pulse current. The SA8.5C-E3/73 is classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for new designs and ongoing production requirements.

Substiute Parts

SA8.5C-E3/73

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 766SA8.5C-E3/73 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SA8.5CA-E3/73

Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes DivisionIn Stock: 32165SA8.5CA-E3/73 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

P6KE10CA-TP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 12251P6KE10CA-TP Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the SA8.5C-E3/73 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Reverse standoff voltage within the 8.5V specification
• Breakdown voltage minimum at or above 9.44V
• Clamping voltage performance compatible with circuit requirements
• Peak pulse current capability meeting or exceeding 31.4A
• Through-hole mounting configuration with DO-15 or DO-204AC package compatibility
• Operating temperature range of -55°C to 175°C
• Zener-type TVS diode classification for general-purpose transient suppression

The substitute parts identified maintain these core electrical and mechanical parameters, ensuring functional equivalence in transient voltage suppression applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SA8.5CA-E3/73 is the primary direct substitute for the obsolete SA8.5C-E3/73. Both parts are manufactured by Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division and share identical reverse standoff voltage, breakdown voltage, and operating temperature specifications. The SA8.5CA-E3/73 is currently in active production status with significantly higher inventory availability (32,100 units versus 707 units for the original part). The clamping voltage is lower at 14.4V compared to 15.9V, and peak pulse current is higher at 34.7A versus 31.4A, representing improved performance characteristics within the same electrical class.

The P6KE10CA-TP, manufactured by Micro Commercial Co, provides an alternative substitute with comparable electrical performance. This part maintains the 8.55V reverse standoff voltage specification and offers enhanced peak pulse current capability at 41A with 600W peak pulse power rating. The clamping voltage of 14.5V is within acceptable tolerance of the original specification. The P6KE10CA-TP is also in active production status with substantial inventory availability (12,205 units).

All three parts maintain ROHS3 compliance, MSL Level 1 (Unlimited), and REACH Unaffected status, ensuring regulatory compatibility for new designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SA8.5CA-E3/73 be used as a direct replacement for the SA8.5C-E3/73?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical reverse standoff voltage (8.5V), breakdown voltage (9.44V), and operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C). The SA8.5CA-E3/73 is the recommended substitute due to manufacturer continuity and active production status.

Q: What is the difference in clamping voltage between the SA8.5C-E3/73 and its substitutes?

A: The original SA8.5C-E3/73 has a maximum clamping voltage of 15.9V. The SA8.5CA-E3/73 clamps at 14.4V, and the P6KE10CA-TP clamps at 14.5V. Lower clamping voltage indicates improved transient suppression performance.

Q: Are the substitute parts compatible with the original DO-204AC package footprint?

A: Yes. All three parts use DO-204AC (DO-15) axial through-hole packaging, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility with existing PCB designs.

Q: What is the peak pulse current capability difference?

A: The SA8.5C-E3/73 handles 31.4A peak pulse current. The SA8.5CA-E3/73 provides 34.7A, and the P6KE10CA-TP provides 41A. Higher peak pulse current capability allows for greater transient energy absorption.

Q: Do all substitute parts meet the same regulatory requirements?

A: Yes. All three parts are ROHS3 compliant, MSL Level 1 (Unlimited), and REACH Unaffected, meeting current regulatory standards for electronic component manufacturing and use.

Q: Which substitute should be selected for new designs?

A: The SA8.5CA-E3/73 is recommended for new designs requiring direct manufacturer continuity with Vishay. The P6KE10CA-TP is suitable when enhanced peak pulse current capability (41A) and power rating (600W) are beneficial for the application.