4N36 Optoisolator Transistor with Base Output - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 4N36 is a single-channel optoisolator with transistor output and base connection, rated for 5300Vrms isolation voltage. This component is classified as obsolete by the original manufacturer (onsemi), necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives from active product lines. The 4N36 serves applications requiring galvanic isolation in signal transmission circuits with DC input and transistor-based output stages. Substitute parts must maintain compatibility across isolation voltage, channel configuration, output type, and package form factor while accommodating variations in electrical performance parameters.

Substiute Parts

4N36

onsemiIn Stock: 1004634N36 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

4N36M

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 159924N36M Datasheet

DirectRFQ

4N35-000E

Broadcom LimitedIn Stock: 39614N35-000E Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

4N36

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1004684N36 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

4N36-X000

Vishay Semiconductor Opto DivisionIn Stock: 12264N36-X000 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 4N36 is determined by the following mandatory parameters:

• Isolation Voltage: Substitute parts must provide isolation voltage ≥ 3550Vrms (minimum threshold for functional equivalence in isolation-critical applications)
• Number of Channels: Must be 1 channel (single-channel configuration)
• Output Type: Must be Transistor with Base (maintains circuit interface compatibility)
• Input Type: Must be DC (signal input compatibility)
• Package / Case: Must be 6-DIP form factor (mechanical and pin compatibility)
• Mounting Type: Must be Through Hole (PCB assembly compatibility)

The following parts meet these substitution criteria:

• 4N36M (Fairchild Semiconductor): 5000Vrms isolation, active product status
• 4N35-000E (Broadcom Limited): 3550Vrms isolation, active product status
• 4N36 (Texas Instruments): 5000Vrms isolation, active product status
• 4N36-X000 (Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division): 5000Vrms isolation, active product status

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Substitutes (Highest Compatibility)

The 4N36 from Texas Instruments and 4N36-X000 from Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division are the preferred substitutes. Both maintain the original 6-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) package footprint, operate across the -55°C to 100°C temperature range, and provide 5000Vrms isolation voltage. The Texas Instruments variant is available in higher inventory volume. The Vishay part carries ROHS3 compliance certification.

Secondary Substitute (Reduced Isolation Voltage)

The 4N35-000E from Broadcom Limited provides 3550Vrms isolation, which is below the original 5300Vrms specification. This part is suitable only for applications where the lower isolation voltage meets system requirements. It maintains the original 6-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) package and includes ROHS3 compliance.

Alternative Substitute (Package Variation)

The 4N36M from Fairchild Semiconductor uses a 6-DIP (0.400", 10.16mm) package, which differs from the original 0.300" pitch. This package variation requires PCB layout verification before implementation. The part provides 5000Vrms isolation and extends the operating temperature range to 110°C.

Compliance Considerations

The Texas Instruments 4N36 is marked as RoHS non-compliant and REACH Affected. The Vishay 4N36-X000 and Broadcom 4N35-000E carry ROHS3 compliance certification. Selection should account for end-product regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 4N35-000E substitute for the 4N36 in all applications?

A: The 4N35-000E provides 3550Vrms isolation compared to the original 5300Vrms specification. Substitution is valid only when the application isolation voltage requirement is ≤ 3550Vrms. Verify system isolation specifications before selection.

Q: What is the impact of the 4N36M package dimension difference?

A: The 4N36M uses 6-DIP (0.400", 10.16mm) spacing versus the original 6-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm). This 0.100" pitch difference requires PCB footprint modification. Pin-to-pin electrical function remains compatible.

Q: Are there differences in switching speed between substitutes?

A: The original 4N36 specifies 2µs turn-on and turn-off times. The 4N36M, Texas Instruments 4N36, and Vishay 4N36-X000 specify 10µs switching times. Applications with timing-critical requirements must account for this 5× increase in switching delay.

Q: Which substitute has the best regulatory compliance profile?

A: The Vishay 4N36-X000 and Broadcom 4N35-000E both carry ROHS3 compliance certification. The Texas Instruments 4N36 is marked RoHS non-compliant and REACH Affected, requiring evaluation against end-product compliance requirements.

Q: What is the maximum output voltage rating difference?

A: The 4N36M supports 80V maximum output voltage, compared to 30V for all other variants. Applications requiring higher output voltage swing should consider the 4N36M, subject to package compatibility verification.

Q: Are all substitutes available in equivalent packaging options?

A: The 4N36M is supplied in Tube packaging. The 4N35-000E is supplied in Tube packaging. The Texas Instruments 4N36 and Vishay 4N36-X000 packaging specifications are provided by respective suppliers. Verify packaging availability with component distributors for procurement requirements.