HCPL-261N#020 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The HCPL-261N#020 is a logic output optoisolator manufactured by Broadcom Limited, designed for high-speed digital isolation applications. This 5000Vrms isolation device features open collector output with Schottky clamping, supporting 10MBd data rates and 1kV/µs common mode transient immunity in an 8-DIP package. The part is currently discontinued at DiGi Electronics, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing system support and new designs.

Substiute Parts

HCPL-261N#020

Broadcom LimitedIn Stock: 960HCPL-261N#020 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

HCPL-261N-020E

Broadcom LimitedIn Stock: 868HCPL-261N-020E Datasheet

DirectRFQ

6N137M

onsemiIn Stock: 243326N137M Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the HCPL-261N#020 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Isolation Voltage: 5000Vrms (mandatory match)
• Number of Channels: 1 channel (mandatory match)
• Output Configuration: Open Collector topology (mandatory match)
• Package Type: 8-DIP through-hole form factor (mandatory match)
• Supply Voltage Range: 4.5V ~ 5.5V (mandatory match)
• Data Rate: 10MBd or higher (acceptable if equal or greater)
• Common Mode Transient Immunity: 1kV/µs minimum (acceptable if equal or greater)
• Output Current: 50 mA per channel (mandatory match)

Substitute parts must satisfy all mandatory parameters. Performance parameters such as propagation delay, rise/fall time, and CMTI may exceed the original specification without affecting functional compatibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

HCPL-261N-020E (Broadcom Limited): This direct manufacturer equivalent maintains identical electrical specifications and packaging to the original HCPL-261N#020. The primary distinction is product status—HCPL-261N-020E is currently active with confirmed inventory availability. This part carries ROHS3 compliance, addressing environmental regulatory requirements. Selection of HCPL-261N-020E is appropriate for applications requiring exact specification matching and Broadcom component continuity.

6N137M (onsemi): This cross-manufacturer substitute meets all mandatory substitution criteria with enhanced performance characteristics. The 6N137M provides superior common mode transient immunity (10kV/µs typical versus 1kV/µs minimum), faster propagation delay (75ns maximum versus 100ns maximum), and extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 100°C versus -40°C to 85°C). The 6N137M is ROHS3 compliant and maintains active product status with substantial inventory availability. Selection of 6N137M is appropriate for applications where improved performance margins and extended temperature operation provide system benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can HCPL-261N-020E be used as a direct replacement for HCPL-261N#020?

A: Yes. HCPL-261N-020E is a direct equivalent with identical electrical specifications, isolation voltage, output configuration, and package type. The primary difference is packaging format (tube versus unspecified) and active product status. Pin-for-pin compatibility is maintained.

Q: What are the key differences between HCPL-261N-020E and 6N137M?

A: Both parts satisfy all mandatory substitution criteria. The 6N137M offers improved performance: 10kV/µs common mode transient immunity (versus 1kV/µs), faster propagation delay (75ns versus 100ns), and extended temperature range to 100°C. The 6N137M is manufactured by onsemi rather than Broadcom. Both are ROHS3 compliant and actively produced.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns when substituting 6N137M for HCPL-261N#020?

A: No compatibility concerns exist for applications within the specified operating parameters. The 6N137M is pin-compatible in the 8-DIP package and maintains the same supply voltage range, isolation voltage, and output current rating. The improved performance characteristics of 6N137M do not create backward compatibility issues.

Q: Does the output configuration differ between these parts?

A: HCPL-261N#020 and HCPL-261N-020E feature open collector output with Schottky clamping. The 6N137M features open collector output without specified Schottky clamping. Both configurations are functionally compatible for standard open collector applications. Circuit design should account for output clamping characteristics if critical to system performance.

Q: What is the significance of RoHS compliance status?

A: HCPL-261N#020 is RoHS non-compliant. Both HCPL-261N-020E and 6N137M are ROHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for electronic components. Selection of compliant alternatives is necessary for applications subject to RoHS regulations.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in existing PCB designs?

A: Yes. All three parts use identical 8-DIP through-hole packaging with matching pin assignments. PCB layouts designed for HCPL-261N#020 accommodate HCPL-261N-020E and 6N137M without modification. Soldering and assembly processes remain unchanged.