Identify an unknown SMD part: marking code “A18”

Packages rarely print the full part number. The marking below is shared by several part numbers — use the package, pin count and the manufacturer family together to narrow it down, then confirm against the datasheet.

9 candidates 2 with manufacturer source-traceable

Candidate part numbers

Part number	Manufacturer	Package	Mapping source
CLC409AJM5	NSC *	SOT-23-5	Public marking directory
XC6114A239MR	TOREX *	SOT-23-5	Public marking directory
2SK436-18	—	SOT-23 16fa - 3a San	Public marking directory
AIC1747-18GJ3	—	SOT-323 16cg VR1 3a Aic	Public marking directory
ELM9718NAB	—	SOT-89	Public marking directory
XC31PNS0018AM	—	SOT-23 16cg VR1 3d Tor	Public marking directory
XC31PNS0018AP	—	SOT-89	Public marking directory
XC31PPS0018AM	—	SOT-23	Public marking directory
XC31PPS0018AP	—	SOT-89	Public marking directory

How we narrow this down

1. Package first — SOT-23 vs SOD-123 vs SC-59 eliminates most candidates immediately.
2. Pin count and body size — a 3-pin SOT-23 LDO cannot be a 6-pin dual transistor.
3. Marking style — laser-marked parts are usually newer production; ink marking often indicates older or second-source vendors.
4. Circuits around it — a part sitting on a rail with an inductor is a regulator, not a diode.
5. Datasheet check — every credible candidate lists its marking scheme in the “marking information” section.

FAQ

• Same code, several parts — which one do I actually have? Compare package + pin count + surrounding circuit; if it still fits two parts, request a sample verification before production.
• Can I substitute between the candidates? No — the same marking may sit on electrically different parts. Always match the electrical spec sheet, not just the marking.
• Where do these mappings come from? Public SMD marking directories and historical stock tables; each row keeps its source so you can trace it.

Other codes starting with “A”

How these mappings are compiled: public SMD marking directories plus our own stock records. Each row keeps its original reference internally, so any mapping can be traced on request. ^* Manufacturer derived from the part-number family (some directory entries carry no manufacturer) — treat it as a lead, not a datasheet fact. Markings are indicative only — confirm with the physical batch marking and the original datasheet before ordering.