LED RED/YLW DIFFUSED T-1 T/H 3BC-R/Y Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Bivar Inc. 3BC-R/Y is a dual-color LED indicator with red and yellow diffused optics in a T-1 form factor for through-hole mounting. This part is currently obsolete, requiring identification of suitable substitute components for continued system design and procurement. The substitution must maintain compatibility with existing circuit designs while accommodating permitted variations in electrical and optical performance characteristics.

Substiute Parts

3BC-R/Y

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 9533BC-R/Y Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3BC-3-R/Y-F

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 10683BC-3-R/Y-F Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

5219768F

DialightIn Stock: 28555219768F Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the 3BC-R/Y must satisfy the following core compatibility criteria:

Required Parameters:

• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Lens Size: 3mm, T-1 form factor
• Color: Red and Yellow dual-color capability
• Lens Transparency: Diffused optics
• Package / Case: Radial configuration
• Voltage - Forward (Vf): 2V nominal for red and yellow channels
• Current - Test: 20mA per color channel
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 1 (Unlimited)

Permitted Variations:

• Configuration: Bidirectional to Common Cathode transitions are acceptable with circuit design accommodation
• Height: Deviations permitted within mechanical assembly constraints
• Millicandela Rating: Permitted within system visibility requirements
• Viewing Angle: Permitted within optical design specifications
• Wavelength - Peak: Minor shifts acceptable within color perception standards

Two active substitutes meet these criteria, each with distinct configuration implications for circuit integration.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

3BC-3-R/Y-F (Bivar Inc.)

This part is the direct manufacturer equivalent, sharing identical optical wavelengths and electrical characteristics with the obsolete 3BC-R/Y. The primary design consideration is configuration change from bidirectional to common cathode. Circuit redesign is required to accommodate the common cathode architecture. Higher millicandela ratings (30mcd red, 20mcd yellow) provide increased brightness over the original design. Height increase to 7.00mm requires mechanical clearance verification. ROHS3 compliance status aligns with modern procurement requirements. This substitute is recommended for designs that can accommodate common cathode configuration.

5219768F (Dialight, Series 521)

This part maintains bidirectional configuration compatibility with the original 3BC-R/Y design, eliminating circuit redesign requirements. Voltage characteristics are near-identical with negligible yellow forward voltage deviation (2.1V vs 2V). Millicandela output matches the original design closely (5.6mcd vs 4-6mcd range). Extended viewing angle (80° vs 45°) provides broader visibility performance. Height of 5.70mm falls between the original and Bivar substitute. Wavelength deviations are within color perception standards (630nm red vs 625nm; 585nm yellow vs 590nm). ROHS3 compliance is confirmed with REACH unaffected status. This substitute is recommended for designs prioritizing configuration compatibility and minimal circuit modification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3BC-3-R/Y-F be used as a direct replacement without circuit changes?

A: No. The configuration change from bidirectional to common cathode requires circuit redesign. The common cathode configuration requires a shared return path for both LEDs, differing from the bidirectional architecture which allows independent control. Circuit schematics must be modified accordingly.

Q: What is the key difference between the two substitute parts?

A: Configuration architecture and brightness output. The 3BC-3-R/Y-F uses common cathode configuration with higher brightness (30mcd/20mcd). The 5219768F maintains bidirectional configuration matching the original design with comparable brightness (5.6mcd/5.6mcd). Choose 3BC-3-R/Y-F if increased brightness is acceptable with circuit redesign. Choose 5219768F if configuration compatibility is required.

Q: Are there mechanical compatibility concerns with the substitute parts?

A: Height variations must be verified against PCB assembly constraints. The 3BC-3-R/Y-F reaches 7.00mm (vs original 4.50mm), potentially exceeding available clearance. The 5219768F is 5.70mm, requiring less space. Verify mechanical fit before selection.

Q: Do the substitute parts meet modern compliance requirements?

A: Both active substitutes are ROHS3 compliant. The 5219768F includes REACH unaffected status. The original 3BC-R/Y compliance information is not specified. Verify specific compliance requirements for target applications.

Q: Can voltage and current specifications be exceeded?

A: No. All parts operate at standard test conditions of 20mA and 2V nominal forward voltage. Operating outside these parameters will degrade performance and reliability. Circuit design must maintain these specifications across all operating conditions.

Q: What is the inventory status of substitute parts?

A: Both substitutes are currently in stock from active production. The 3BC-3-R/Y-F has 1054 units available. The 5219768F has 2809 units available. The original obsolete part has 923 units remaining as legacy inventory.