Request Quote
(Ships tomorrow)
2N5638RLRAG Equivalent & Substitute Parts
Part Overview
The 2N5638RLRAG is an N-Channel JFET transistor rated for 35 V breakdown voltage and 30 V drain-to-source voltage, designed for through-hole applications in the TO-92 package. With a maximum power dissipation of 310 mW and drain current of 50 mA at 20 V, this device is suitable for general-purpose switching and amplification circuits. The part is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for new designs and component sourcing.
Substiute Parts
Key Parameters
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| FET Type | N-Channel JFET | — |
| Voltage - Breakdown (V(BR)GSS) | 35 | V |
| Drain to Source Voltage (Vdss) | 30 | V |
| Current - Drain (Idss) @ Vds | 50 | mA @ 20 V |
| Input Capacitance (Ciss) Max @ Vds | 10 | pF @ 12V (VGS) |
| Resistance - RDS(On) | 30 | Ohms |
| Power - Max | 310 | mW |
| Operating Temperature | -65 to 150 | °C (TJ) |
| Mounting Type | Through Hole | — |
| Package / Case | TO-92-3 (TO-226) | — |
| Product Status | Obsolete | — |
Substitute Part Grouping Explanation
Substitution of the 2N5638RLRAG is determined by the following critical parameters:
- Device Type: N-Channel JFET configuration
- Voltage Rating: Drain-to-source voltage (Vdss) of 30 V or higher
- Current Capability: Drain current (Idss) of 50 mA or higher at specified conditions
- Package Compatibility: TO-92-3 through-hole package for direct pin-compatible replacement
- Thermal Performance: Power dissipation capability of 310 mW or greater
- Operating Temperature Range: -65°C to 150°C or equivalent
The BF256B qualifies as a substitute based on matching N-Channel JFET technology, 30 V voltage rating, compatible TO-92-3 package, and active product status with current availability.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | 2N5638RLRAG | BF256B | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | N-Channel JFET | N-Channel JFET | — |
| Voltage - Rated (Vdss) | 30 | 30 | V |
| Voltage - Breakdown (V(BR)GSS) | 35 | — | V |
| Current Rating | 50 | 13 | mA |
| Mounting Type | Through Hole | Through Hole | — |
| Package / Case | TO-92-3 (TO-226) | TO-92-3 (TO-226AA) | — |
| Product Status | Obsolete | Active | — |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) | 1 (Unlimited) | 1 (Unlimited) | — |
| REACH Status | REACH Unaffected | REACH Unaffected | — |
Engineering Selection Recommendations
The BF256B is an active substitute for the obsolete 2N5638RLRAG. Both devices share N-Channel JFET technology, 30 V voltage rating, and TO-92-3 package compatibility, enabling direct pin-for-pin replacement in through-hole applications.
Key considerations for selection:
- Product Availability: BF256B is in active production with 39,915 units in stock, compared to the obsolete 2N5638RLRAG with limited remaining inventory of 655 units.
- Compliance: Both parts maintain REACH Unaffected status and MSL Level 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity rating, ensuring equivalent environmental and regulatory compliance.
- Current Rating Difference: The BF256B has a lower drain current rating of 13 mA compared to the 2N5638RLRAG at 50 mA. Circuit designs must verify that the lower current capability is acceptable for the intended application.
- RoHS Status: BF256B is RoHS3 compliant, supporting modern manufacturing and environmental standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can the BF256B directly replace the 2N5638RLRAG in existing designs?
A: Pin-for-pin replacement is possible due to identical TO-92-3 package configuration. However, the BF256B's lower drain current rating (13 mA vs. 50 mA) must be verified against circuit requirements before implementation.
Q: What is the primary reason for substitution?
A: The 2N5638RLRAG is obsolete. The BF256B provides an active, readily available alternative with matching voltage ratings and package type.
Q: Are there compliance differences between the two parts?
A: Both parts maintain equivalent REACH and MSL ratings. The BF256B adds RoHS3 compliance, which may be required for new designs depending on application and regional regulations.
Q: How do the electrical characteristics compare?
A: Both devices are N-Channel JFETs with 30 V drain-to-source voltage ratings and TO-92-3 packages. The primary difference is drain current capability: 2N5638RLRAG at 50 mA versus BF256B at 13 mA. Applications requiring higher current must evaluate alternative substitutes or circuit modifications.
Q: Is the TO-92-3 package identical between both parts?
A: Both use TO-92-3 (TO-226) package variants. Verify lead spacing and body dimensions with the respective datasheets to confirm mechanical compatibility in your specific PCB layout.
Alternative Parts
SJ6012L2TP
Littelfuse Inc.
6 Alternative Parts
JMK107BBJ476MA-RE
Taiyo Yuden
10 Alternative Parts
GMK107BBJ475MA-T
Taiyo Yuden
5 Alternative Parts
SJ6020N2ARP
Littelfuse Inc.
3 Alternative Parts
SJ6025R2ATP
Littelfuse Inc.
4 Alternative Parts
2474-05L
API Delevan Inc.
1 Alternative Parts
4590R-684K
API Delevan Inc.
1 Alternative Parts
CM6560R-334
API Delevan Inc.
1 Alternative Parts
CM6460-104
API Delevan Inc.
1 Alternative Parts
5526-12
API Delevan Inc.
1 Alternative Parts

