Is there a pin-compatible replacement for SMF26CA?

Yes, parts like SMF28CA and SMF30CA share the same SOD-123FL package and pinout. However, their electrical parameters differ, so they are not drop-in replacements and require careful verification.

What risks should I check before replacing SMF26CA?

When replacing the SMF26CA, primarily check the standoff voltage, peak pulse current (Ipp), and clamping voltage. A lower current rating can lead to failure, and a different standoff voltage can either fail to protect the circuit or clip the signal.

SMF26CA Alternatives, Datasheet & Cross Reference | Meritek

Finding a substitute for the SMF26CA TVS diode involves matching its 26V bidirectional protection in a SOD-123FL package. Key parameters to verify are standoff voltage, peak pulse current, and package footprint.

AI replacement insight

Electrical riskhigh

Candidates have different standoff voltages and/or lower current ratings, requiring careful analysis.

Package riskmedium

Some alternatives are in different packages (e.g., SMAJ series), requiring a board redesign.

Sourcing risklow

The SMF series is a common TVS family available from multiple manufacturers.

Can it be replaced directly?

No direct drop-in replacement has been identified. All candidates have parametric differences requiring engineering review to ensure circuit protection is not compromised.

Best replacement path

The most viable path is using a parametric alternative like SMF28CA, which requires verifying the impact of its slightly lower current rating and higher standoff voltage.

Main risk

The main risk is electrical overstress due to substitutes having lower peak current ratings or insufficient voltage protection from a higher standoff voltage.

Recommended alternatives

Similar package and polarity, but has a lower current rating and higher standoff voltage.

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Alternative comparison matrix

Feature / factor	SMF26CA	SMF28CA	SMAJ30CA	Compatibility / risk
Package	SOD-123FL	SOD-123FL	DO-214AC (SMA)	SOD-123FL / DO-214AC (SMA) — Package matches, likely pin compatible.; SMAJ30CA: Different package, not footprint compatible.
Polarity Or Type	Bi-directional	Bidirectional	Bi-directional	Bidirectional / Bi-directional — Polarity matches target.; SMAJ30CA: Polarity matches target.
Voltage V	26.0V	28.0V	30.0V	28.0V / 30.0V — Higher standoff voltage may reduce protection margin.; SMAJ30CA: Higher standoff voltage may reduce protection margin.
Current A	4.8A	4.4A	8.3A	4.4A / 8.3A — Lower peak pulse current rating is a downgrade risk.; SMAJ30CA: Higher peak pulse current is an upgrade.
Power W	200.0W	200.0W	400.0W	200.0W / 400.0W — Power rating matches.; SMAJ30CA: Higher power rating is an upgrade.

Application & sourcing insights

Questions & answers

The SMF28CA is a close parametric alternative in the same package, but has a slightly lower current rating (4.4A vs 4.8A) and higher standoff voltage (28V vs 26V) that requires engineering review.