UPC8179TK-A: Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The UPC8179TK-A is an RF Amplifier IC manufactured by CEL, designed for general-purpose applications across the 100MHz to 2.4GHz frequency range. This component is packaged in a 6-SMD Minimold configuration and operates at supply voltages between 2.4V and 3.3V. The part has reached obsolete product status, necessitating the identification of functionally equivalent alternatives to maintain system design continuity and ensure component availability for production and maintenance.

Substiute Parts

UPC8179TK-A

CELIn Stock: 964UPC8179TK-A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SMA3109-TL-E

onsemiIn Stock: 4415SMA3109-TL-E Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the obsolete UPC8179TK-A requires identification of RF Amplifier ICs that maintain compatibility across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Operating frequency range must encompass or overlap the original 100MHz ~ 2.4GHz specification
• Supply voltage tolerance must accommodate the 2.4V ~ 3.3V envelope or be configurable within system design constraints
• Gain characteristics must be suitable for the intended application context
• Noise figure must remain within acceptable limits for the RF signal chain

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Mounting type must be Surface Mount to preserve PCB assembly compatibility
• Package configuration must be 6-lead format with flat leads, matching the original 6-SMD specification
• Moisture sensitivity rating must be compatible with standard handling and storage protocols

The SMA3109-TL-E has been identified as a viable substitute based on these critical parameter alignments, offering both superior electrical performance specifications and active product status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SMA3109-TL-E is classified as an active product from onsemi, providing assured long-term availability compared to the obsolete UPC8179TK-A. Both components share identical REACH compliance status (REACH Unaffected) and export classification (EAR99), eliminating regulatory barriers to substitution.

The SMA3109-TL-E maintains mechanical compatibility through identical 6-SMD flat-lead packaging and equivalent MSL rating, ensuring compatibility with existing PCB assembly processes and component handling protocols. Supply voltage overlap exists within the 2.7V ~ 3.3V range, with system design verification required for minimum voltage operation.

The SMA3109-TL-E demonstrates enhanced electrical performance, including superior noise figure (4.3dB versus 5dB ~ 6.5dB) and higher P1dB rating (4.2dBm), indicating improved linearity and reduced noise contribution. Increased supply current (16mA versus 2.6mA ~ 5.4mA) must be accommodated within power budget design margins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SMA3109-TL-E be used as a direct drop-in replacement for the UPC8179TK-A?

A: The SMA3109-TL-E maintains mechanical compatibility through identical 6-SMD flat-lead packaging. Supply voltage ranges overlap between 2.7V and 3.3V, and both components share equivalent moisture sensitivity and regulatory compliance status. System-level design verification is required to confirm electrical performance acceptance, particularly with regard to differences in gain (24dB versus 13dB ~ 17.5dB) and supply current consumption (16mA versus 2.6mA ~ 5.4mA).

Q: What are the primary electrical differences between these components?

A: The SMA3109-TL-E provides higher gain (24dB fixed versus 13dB ~ 17.5dB range), superior P1dB linearity (4.2dBm versus -2dBm ~ 0.5dBm), and improved noise figure (4.3dB versus 5dB ~ 6.5dB). The frequency upper limit is 2.2GHz compared to 2.4GHz. Supply current is significantly higher at 16mA versus the 2.6mA ~ 5.4mA range.

Q: Are both components qualified for the same regulatory and compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both the UPC8179TK-A and SMA3109-TL-E share REACH Unaffected status, identical export classification (EAR99), and the same HTSUS commodity code (8542.33.0001). Moisture sensitivity levels are equivalent at MSL 1 (Unlimited).

Q: What packaging compatibility considerations apply to this substitution?

A: Both components utilize 6-SMD packaging with flat leads, ensuring compatibility with existing PCB footprints and surface mount assembly equipment. The only packaging differentiation is in the supplier device package designation (6-Minimold versus 6-MCPH), which does not impact mechanical fit or assembly process.

Q: Should frequency range differences affect component selection?

A: The SMA3109-TL-E operates across 0Hz ~ 2.2GHz, providing full coverage of the 100MHz ~ 2.4GHz range except above 2.2GHz. Applications operating exclusively below 2.2GHz encounter no frequency-related constraints. Systems requiring operation above 2.2GHz must evaluate performance degradation or identify alternative substitutes.

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