BPW38 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The BPW38 is a phototransistor optical sensor manufactured by onsemi, designed for 880nm wavelength detection in a TO-206AA (TO-18-3 Metal Can) through-hole package. The device is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for new designs and ongoing production requirements. The BPW38 operates across an extended temperature range of -65°C to 125°C and is suitable for applications requiring near-infrared photodetection with top-view orientation.

Substiute Parts

BPW38

onsemiIn Stock: 999BPW38 Datasheet

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OP830SL

TT Electronics/Optek TechnologyIn Stock: 2950OP830SL Datasheet

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OP830WSL

TT Electronics / Optek TechnologyIn Stock: 1759OP830WSL Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the BPW38 are qualified based on the following critical parameters:

Package Compatibility: Both substitute parts (OP830SL and OP830WSL) share the identical TO-206AA, TO-18-3 Metal Can package and through-hole mounting type, ensuring direct mechanical and electrical socket compatibility.

Orientation: All parts maintain top-view orientation, preserving optical axis alignment in existing PCB layouts.

Operating Temperature Range: The OP830SL supports -65°C to 125°C, matching the BPW38 specification. The OP830WSL operates at -55°C to 125°C, providing a narrower lower temperature bound but remaining suitable for most industrial applications.

Electrical Ratings: The substitute parts feature lower maximum collector-emitter breakdown voltage (15 V vs. 25 V) and reduced maximum power dissipation (250 mW vs. 300 mW). These reductions are acceptable in applications where the BPW38's higher ratings were not fully utilized.

Wavelength and Viewing Angle: The substitute parts do not specify wavelength or viewing angle in the provided data. Substitution is valid only where the BPW38's 880nm wavelength and 18° viewing angle are not critical design requirements.

Product Status: Both substitute parts are active products with current manufacturing support, eliminating obsolescence risk.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

OP830SL Selection: This substitute is appropriate for applications requiring the full -65°C to 125°C operating temperature range. The OP830SL maintains electrical parameter parity with the BPW38 within acceptable design margins and carries active product status with ROHS3 compliance, ensuring long-term supply chain stability.

OP830WSL Selection: This substitute is suitable for applications where the lower operating temperature limit of -55°C is acceptable. The OP830WSL provides identical electrical performance to the OP830SL and is recommended for standard industrial temperature environments. ROHS3 compliance ensures regulatory alignment with modern manufacturing standards.

Compliance Considerations: Both substitute parts are REACH Unaffected and carry EAR99 ECCN classification, matching the BPW38 regulatory profile. ROHS3 compliance of the substitute parts exceeds the original part's compliance status, providing enhanced environmental and regulatory positioning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can OP830SL and OP830WSL be used interchangeably with BPW38?

A: Yes, within the constraints of operating temperature requirements. Both parts share identical package geometry (TO-206AA), mounting type (through-hole), and orientation (top-view). The OP830SL is preferred for applications requiring -65°C operation; the OP830WSL is suitable for -55°C minimum temperature environments.

Q: What are the electrical differences between BPW38 and the substitute parts?

A: The substitute parts feature lower maximum collector-emitter breakdown voltage (15 V vs. 25 V) and reduced maximum power dissipation (250 mW vs. 300 mW). Dark current is higher in the substitutes (1 µA vs. 100 nA). These differences are acceptable in applications where the BPW38's higher ratings were not design-critical.

Q: Are wavelength and viewing angle specifications available for the substitute parts?

A: Wavelength and viewing angle specifications are not provided in the available data for OP830SL and OP830WSL. Substitution is valid only where the BPW38's 880nm wavelength and 18° viewing angle are not critical to circuit performance.

Q: What is the inventory status of these substitute parts?

A: OP830SL has 2889 units in stock; OP830WSL has 1714 units in stock. Both are classified as active products with ongoing manufacturing support, eliminating obsolescence concerns associated with the BPW38.

Q: Do the substitute parts meet modern compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both OP830SL and OP830WSL are ROHS3 compliant, REACH Unaffected, and carry EAR99 ECCN classification, providing regulatory alignment with current manufacturing and export requirements.