Equivalent & Substitute Parts for 5BWC12V-F

Part Overview

The 5BWC12V-F is a blue LED indication component manufactured by Bivar Inc., designed for through-hole mounting applications requiring discrete 12V radial configuration. This T-1 3/4 (5mm) lens LED operates at 10mA test current with a 30mcd brightness rating and 25° viewing angle. The product is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing design support and procurement continuity.

Substiute Parts

5BWC12V-F

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 9935BWC12V-F Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LTH5MM12VFR4600

Visual Communications Company - VCCIn Stock: 14358LTH5MM12VFR4600 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 5BWC12V-F is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Compatibility Criteria:

• Forward voltage rating of 12V
• Blue LED color specification
• 5mm T-1 3/4 lens form factor
• Through-hole radial mounting configuration
• Clear lens transparency

Secondary Compatibility Considerations:

• Millicandela rating (brightness level tolerance dependent on application)
• Viewing angle (25° baseline)
• Peak wavelength in blue spectrum range
• Maximum height within PCB clearance constraints
• Test current specifications

The substitute part LTH5MM12VFR4600 satisfies all primary compatibility criteria and maintains electrical and mechanical interchangeability within standard LED indication circuit designs.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Substitution Basis:

The LTH5MM12VFR4600 from Visual Communications Company (VCC) is an active-status equivalent for the obsolete 5BWC12V-F. Both components share identical forward voltage (12V), lens form factor (5mm T-1 3/4), mounting configuration (through-hole radial), and lens transparency (clear).

Compliance Considerations:

The LTH5MM12VFR4600 carries ROHS3 compliance certification and REACH unaffected status, providing regulatory alignment for modern manufacturing and distribution requirements. The original 5BWC12V-F does not specify these compliance attributes.

Operational Differences:

The substitute part exhibits higher brightness output (2000mcd versus 30mcd) and operates at a slightly elevated test current (12mA versus 10mA). Peak wavelength differs by 40nm (470nm versus 430nm), representing a shift within the blue spectrum. Maximum height increases by 1.35mm (9.95mm versus 8.60mm). These differences require circuit-level evaluation for specific applications where brightness, current draw, or PCB clearance constraints are critical.

Procurement Status:

The substitute part maintains active production status with substantial inventory availability (14320 pcs), ensuring supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete original component.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can LTH5MM12VFR4600 directly replace 5BWC12V-F in existing designs?

A: Direct replacement is mechanically and electrically feasible for the 12V forward voltage and 5mm through-hole radial mounting. However, the higher brightness output (2000mcd versus 30mcd) and increased test current (12mA versus 10mA) require circuit verification to ensure compatibility with existing current-limiting resistor values and brightness requirements.

Q: What is the significance of the 40nm wavelength difference (430nm to 470nm)?

A: Both wavelengths fall within the blue LED spectrum. The 470nm peak wavelength of the substitute represents a standard blue LED characteristic. Visual perception differences may occur in applications where specific color matching or spectral filtering is required.

Q: Does the 1.35mm height increase affect PCB layout?

A: The substitute part maximum height of 9.95mm versus 8.60mm requires verification against PCB clearance specifications, component spacing, and enclosure constraints. This difference is within typical LED form factor tolerances but must be confirmed for space-constrained applications.

Q: What does MSL 2 (1 Year) mean compared to MSL 1 (Unlimited)?

A: MSL 2 indicates the substitute part requires controlled moisture storage conditions with a one-year shelf life from the date of manufacture. MSL 1 (Unlimited) on the original part indicates no moisture sensitivity restrictions. Storage and handling procedures must align with the substitute part's MSL 2 classification.

Q: Is the substitute part suitable for new designs?

A: Yes. The LTH5MM12VFR4600 is an active-status component with ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, making it appropriate for new product development and manufacturing.

Q: How do viewing angles compare between the two parts?

A: The original 5BWC12V-F has a 25° viewing angle, while the substitute LTH5MM12VFR4600 has a 20° viewing angle. The narrower viewing angle of the substitute may affect visibility in applications requiring wide-angle light distribution.