RF Antenna GPS Magnetic C-3910 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PCTEL, Inc. C-3910 is an RF antenna designed for GPS magnetic mounting applications. This component is classified as obsolete and is no longer in active production. Due to its obsolete status, identification of functionally equivalent substitute components is necessary for system redesign, maintenance, and procurement purposes. The C-3910 remains available in limited inventory (857 pieces) but alternative solutions should be evaluated for new designs and long-term availability assurance.

Substiute Parts

C-3910

PCTEL, Inc.In Stock: 877C-3910 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3917D

PCTEL, Inc.In Stock: 8333917D Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the obsolete C-3910 is based on the following critical parameters that define functional equivalence:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Application Alignment: GPS/GNSS navigation antenna functionality
• Frequency Compatibility: Operation within GPS frequency bands (1.565GHz ~ 1.585GHz)
• Mounting Type: Magnetic mounting configuration
• Connector Type: SMA Male termination
• Environmental Rating: IP67 ingress protection
• Compliance Status: Active product status with current certifications

The substitute part 3917D from PCTEL, Inc. satisfies all critical parameters required for functional replacement of the C-3910 in GPS magnetic antenna applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For C-3910 Replacement:

The 3917D is the designated manufacturer substitute for the obsolete C-3910. Selection of the 3917D is based on:

1. Product Status Alignment: The 3917D maintains active product status with current manufacturing support, whereas the C-3910 is obsolete with no future availability assurance.

2. Compliance Certification: The 3917D carries RoHS compliance certification and current ECCN classification (7A994), ensuring regulatory compliance for new designs and international distribution.

3. Functional Equivalence: Both components serve GPS/GNSS magnetic antenna applications with SMA Male connectors and magnetic mounting configurations.

4. Inventory Availability: The 3917D is currently in stock (749 pieces) with active production status, providing supply chain continuity.

5. Environmental Rating: The 3917D specifies IP67 ingress protection, suitable for outdoor and harsh environment GPS applications.

Design Transition Path:

For systems currently utilizing the C-3910, transition to the 3917D is supported by identical mounting type (magnetic), connector type (SMA Male), and application domain (GPS/GNSS navigation). The 3917D's specified frequency range (1.565GHz ~ 1.585GHz) aligns with standard GPS L1 band requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why is the C-3910 being discontinued?

A: The C-3910 is classified as obsolete by PCTEL, Inc. and is no longer in active production. The 3917D represents the current active product line for GPS magnetic antenna applications.

Q: Is the 3917D a direct replacement for the C-3910?

A: The 3917D is the manufacturer-designated substitute for the C-3910. Both components feature magnetic mounting, SMA Male connectors, and GPS/GNSS application compatibility. The 3917D provides enhanced specifications including documented frequency range, IP67 rating, and RoHS compliance.

Q: What are the key compatibility factors between C-3910 and 3917D?

A: Compatibility is established through: (1) identical mounting type (magnetic), (2) identical connector type (SMA Male), (3) aligned application domain (GPS/GNSS), (4) compatible frequency band (1.575GHz center frequency within GPS L1 band), and (5) equivalent packaging format (bulk).

Q: Does the 3917D require different PCB layout or mounting considerations?

A: The 3917D maintains magnetic mounting configuration identical to the C-3910. Maximum height specification is 0.535" (13.60mm). Verify mounting surface compatibility with magnetic attachment requirements in your application.

Q: What certifications does the 3917D carry?

A: The 3917D is RoHS compliant and carries ECCN classification 7A994 with HTSUS code 8529.10.4040. These certifications ensure regulatory compliance for commercial and export applications.

Q: Is inventory of the C-3910 sufficient for ongoing production?

A: Current C-3910 inventory is 857 pieces. For long-term supply assurance, transition to the active 3917D product (749 pieces currently in stock) is recommended, as the C-3910 will not be replenished.

Q: What is the frequency operating range of the 3917D?

A: The 3917D operates across 1.565GHz to 1.585GHz, centered at 1.575GHz, which encompasses the standard GPS L1 frequency band.

Q: Are there any performance differences in gain specifications?

A: The 3917D specifies gain values of 3dBic and -2dBic. The C-3910 gain specifications are not documented in available technical data.