6N137 Optoisolator Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 6N137 is a logic output optoisolator designed for high-speed digital isolation applications. Manufactured by Isocom Components 2004 LTD, this component provides 5000Vrms isolation with 10Mbps data rate capability and open collector output configuration. The part is currently in active production status with substantial inventory availability (108,200 pcs).

Finding equivalent and substitute parts becomes necessary when the original manufacturer discontinues production, when supply constraints occur, or when design requirements necessitate alternative isolation voltage ratings or performance characteristics. The onsemi 6N137 variant listed below represents a functionally related alternative, though with modified electrical specifications that require careful evaluation for compatibility.

Substiute Parts

6N137

Isocom Components 2004 LTDIn Stock: 1082966N137 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

6N137

onsemiIn Stock: 1082486N137 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 6N137 optoisolator is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Compatibility Parameters:

• Single channel configuration (1 channel required)
• Open collector output topology
• 8-DIP through-hole package (0.300", 7.62mm)
• DC input type
• 10Mbps data rate capability
• 50mA output current per channel
• Propagation delay specifications (75ns maximum for both tpLH and tpHL)

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• Isolation voltage rating (5000Vrms primary; lower ratings acceptable if application permits)
• Common mode transient immunity (5kV/µs minimum; higher values acceptable)
• Operating temperature range (primary range -55°C to 85°C; narrower ranges acceptable if within application limits)
• Supply voltage specifications (variations acceptable if application supply is compatible)

The onsemi 6N137 variant meets the mandatory compatibility criteria but presents reduced isolation voltage (2500Vrms versus 5000Vrms) and modified CMTI specification (10kV/µs typical versus 5kV/µs minimum). Product status differences and operating temperature range variations also require evaluation.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Isocom 6N137 (Primary Selection): The Isocom variant maintains active product status with confirmed inventory availability. ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status satisfy current regulatory requirements. The 5000Vrms isolation rating provides maximum margin for high-voltage isolation applications. Extended operating temperature range (-55°C to 85°C) accommodates industrial and military temperature specifications. This part is recommended for new designs and applications requiring maximum isolation voltage.

onsemi 6N137 (Conditional Substitute): The onsemi variant is classified as obsolete, indicating discontinued production status. Substitution is limited to legacy system maintenance or when existing inventory of the onsemi part is available. The reduced isolation voltage (2500Vrms) restricts use to applications where lower isolation ratings are acceptable. The narrower operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C) excludes extended low-temperature applications. RoHS compliance status is not specified for this variant. This part should not be selected for new designs.

Compliance Considerations: Both parts maintain REACH unaffected status and unlimited moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1). The Isocom part explicitly confirms ROHS3 compliance, while the onsemi part does not specify compliance status. For applications subject to regulatory compliance verification, the Isocom 6N137 is the appropriate selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the onsemi 6N137 directly replace the Isocom 6N137 in existing designs?

A: Direct replacement is not recommended. The onsemi variant has reduced isolation voltage (2500Vrms versus 5000Vrms) and a narrower operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C versus -55°C to 85°C). Replacement is only acceptable if the application isolation voltage requirement does not exceed 2500Vrms and the operating temperature remains within -40°C to 85°C. The obsolete product status of the onsemi part further limits its suitability for new applications.

Q: Are there package compatibility concerns between these parts?

A: Both parts use identical 8-DIP through-hole packaging (0.300", 7.62mm). Pin-to-pin compatibility is maintained, allowing direct socket substitution from a mechanical standpoint. However, electrical parameter differences require circuit-level evaluation before substitution.

Q: What is the significance of the Common Mode Transient Immunity (CMTI) difference?

A: The Isocom part specifies 5kV/µs minimum CMTI, while the onsemi part specifies 10kV/µs typical CMTI. Higher CMTI values indicate better performance in high-speed switching environments with steep voltage transitions. The onsemi part's higher CMTI is advantageous for noise immunity but does not compensate for the reduced isolation voltage rating.

Q: Why is the onsemi 6N137 listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued production. Existing inventory may be available through secondary distributors, but long-term supply cannot be guaranteed. New designs should not incorporate obsolete components.

Q: How do the rise and fall time differences affect circuit performance?

A: The Isocom part specifies 40ns rise time and 10ns fall time (typical), while the onsemi part specifies 50ns rise time and 12ns fall time (typical). These differences are minor and do not significantly impact 10Mbps data rate applications. Both parts meet the 75ns maximum propagation delay specification.

Q: What compliance certifications should be verified before substitution?

A: The Isocom 6N137 confirms ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status. The onsemi variant does not specify RoHS compliance status. For applications requiring regulatory compliance documentation, the Isocom part provides explicit certification. Verify compliance requirements with your quality assurance department before selecting the onsemi variant.