Equivalent & Substitute Parts for 3HCL-F Red LED T-1 Through Hole

Part Overview

The 3HCL-F is a red LED indicator manufactured by Bivar Inc., designed for discrete 2V radial through-hole applications. This component features a clear lens with 4mcd brightness rating and is classified as obsolete. Due to its obsolete status, identifying functionally compatible substitute parts is essential for design continuity and procurement planning. The 3HCL-F operates at 2V forward voltage with a 7mA test current and provides a 20° viewing angle in a standard T-1 (3mm) package.

Substiute Parts

3HCL-F

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 8873HCL-F Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3HD-F

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 11793HD-F Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 3HCL-F is determined by the following critical parameters that must remain compatible:

Core Compatibility Parameters:

• Color: Red (625nm peak wavelength)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package Style: T-1 (3mm) Radial
• Forward Voltage: 2V nominal
• Physical Height: 5.30mm maximum
• Lens Size: 3mm T-1 form factor

The primary substitute identified is the 3HD-F, also manufactured by Bivar Inc. This part maintains identical core specifications for voltage, package geometry, and mounting configuration. The 3HD-F differs in lens transparency (diffused vs. clear), millicandela rating (30mcd vs. 4mcd), test current (20mA vs. 7mA), and viewing angle (35° vs. 20°). These differences represent functional enhancements rather than incompatibilities, as the 3HD-F operates within the same electrical and mechanical envelope.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3HCL-F is classified as obsolete, necessitating component substitution for new designs or ongoing production. The 3HD-F is the direct substitute from Bivar Inc. and maintains active product status, ensuring continued availability and supply chain reliability.

Substitution Basis:

• Both parts share identical forward voltage (2V) and package geometry (T-1 radial, 5.30mm height)
• Both operate at the same peak wavelength (625nm red)
• Both feature through-hole mounting on identical form factors
• The 3HD-F is active and currently in stock (1103 pcs available)

The 3HD-F provides increased brightness (30mcd vs. 4mcd) and wider viewing angle (35° vs. 20°), which represent functional improvements. The higher test current (20mA vs. 7mA) reflects the increased light output and must be accommodated in circuit design. The diffused lens of the 3HD-F provides light distribution characteristics different from the clear lens of the 3HCL-F; this optical difference should be evaluated against application requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3HD-F directly replace the 3HCL-F in existing PCB designs?

A: The 3HD-F is mechanically and electrically compatible with the 3HCL-F due to identical package geometry, forward voltage, and through-hole mounting. However, circuit current capacity must accommodate the higher test current (20mA vs. 7mA). The diffused lens produces different light distribution than the clear lens, which may affect visual appearance in the application.

Q: What are the key differences between the 3HCL-F and 3HD-F?

A: The primary differences are lens transparency (clear vs. diffused), brightness rating (4mcd vs. 30mcd), test current (7mA vs. 20mA), and viewing angle (20° vs. 35°). All other specifications including voltage, wavelength, package size, and mounting type are identical.

Q: Why is the 3HCL-F obsolete?

A: The 3HCL-F is listed as obsolete by the manufacturer. The 3HD-F represents the active equivalent in Bivar Inc.'s product line and is recommended for new designs and ongoing procurement.

Q: Are there compliance or certification differences between these parts?

A: Both parts share identical moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1 - Unlimited), ECCN (EAR99), and HTSUS classification (8541.41.0000). The 3HD-F carries RoHS3 compliance certification.

Q: What is the impact of the higher millicandela rating on circuit design?

A: The 3HD-F's 30mcd rating versus the 3HCL-F's 4mcd rating indicates significantly higher light output. This requires higher test current (20mA vs. 7mA) and may necessitate current-limiting resistor adjustments in the circuit to maintain proper LED operating conditions and lifespan.

Q: Does the diffused lens affect optical performance?

A: Yes. The 3HCL-F features a clear lens with a 20° viewing angle, while the 3HD-F features a diffused lens with a 35° viewing angle. The diffused lens spreads light over a wider area with reduced peak intensity in the center. Application requirements for light distribution and intensity must be evaluated before substitution.