Bourns 5256 500µH Wirewound Inductor Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Bourns 5256 is a 500µH unshielded drum core wirewound inductor rated for 2A continuous current with a maximum DC resistance of 260mOhm. This through-hole axial component operates across the temperature range of -55°C to 105°C and is designed for general-purpose filtering and energy storage applications in electronic circuits.

The 5256 has reached obsolete product status. Locating equivalent or substitute components is necessary to maintain design continuity and ensure component availability for production, repair, and field replacement applications.

Substiute Parts

5256

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 7635256 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5256-RC

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 31635256-RC Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the Bourns 5256 is determined by strict equivalence across the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

• Inductance value: 500 µH ±20%
• Current rating: 2 A minimum
• DC resistance: 260 mOhm maximum
• Core material: Ferrite
• Shielding configuration: Unshielded
• Mounting type: Through hole
• Package style: Axial
• Physical dimensions: 0.560" Dia × 1.250" L
• Operating temperature range: -55°C to 105°C
• Test frequency: 1 kHz

The substitute part 5256-RC meets all these criteria and is therefore a direct functional equivalent.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Bourns 5256-RC is the direct substitute for the obsolete Bourns 5256. Both components are manufactured by Bourns Inc. within the same 5200 series and share identical electrical specifications and physical dimensions.

The primary distinction between these parts is product status and regulatory compliance. The 5256 is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant, while the 5256-RC is an active product with ROHS3 compliance. For new designs, repair applications, and production environments where regulatory compliance is required, the 5256-RC is the appropriate selection.

Both components are functionally interchangeable in circuit applications requiring a 500µH, 2A through-hole axial inductor with ferrite drum core construction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5256-RC be used as a direct replacement for the 5256?

A: Yes. The 5256-RC is electrically and mechanically identical to the 5256. All electrical parameters, physical dimensions, and performance characteristics are equivalent. The 5256-RC is the active production equivalent of the obsolete 5256.

Q: What is the difference between the 5256 and 5256-RC?

A: The primary differences are product status and compliance certification. The 5256 is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant. The 5256-RC is an active product with ROHS3 compliance. Packaging differs (standard versus bulk), but the components themselves are functionally identical.

Q: Are there any circuit design considerations when substituting the 5256-RC for the 5256?

A: No. Both components operate identically in circuit applications. The 500µH inductance, 2A current rating, 260mOhm DC resistance, ferrite core material, and unshielded configuration are identical. PCB layout and circuit design remain unchanged.

Q: What is the physical footprint compatibility?

A: Both the 5256 and 5256-RC share identical axial through-hole dimensions of 0.560" diameter by 1.250" length (14.22mm × 31.75mm). They are pin-compatible and require no PCB modifications.

Q: Is the 5256-RC suitable for applications requiring RoHS compliance?

A: Yes. The 5256-RC is ROHS3 compliant, making it suitable for applications and markets requiring RoHS certification. The obsolete 5256 is RoHS non-compliant.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for both components?

A: Both the 5256 and 5256-RC operate across -55°C to 105°C. Temperature performance is identical between the two parts.