LM2901N Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LM2901N is a general-purpose comparator IC with four independent comparator elements in a 14-pin DIP package. Manufactured by onsemi, this device features open-collector and TTL-compatible outputs with a supply voltage range of 2V to 36V (single) or ±1V to ±18V (dual). The LM2901N is classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for new designs and ongoing production support. Substitute parts must maintain functional equivalence across electrical specifications, output characteristics, and package compatibility while considering current product availability and manufacturing status.

Substiute Parts

LM2901N

onsemiIn Stock: 8263LM2901N Datasheet

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LM2901DR2G

onsemiIn Stock: 127372LM2901DR2G Datasheet

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LM2901D

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 36146LM2901D Datasheet

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LM2901N

National SemiconductorIn Stock: 8280LM2901N Datasheet

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LM2901N/NOPB

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 3180LM2901N/NOPB Datasheet

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LM339N

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 124922LM339N Datasheet

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LM339NE3

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 18050LM339NE3 Datasheet

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LP2901N

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 4581LP2901N Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the LM2901N are classified based on the following substitution criteria:

Direct Substitutes (Same Base Product, Different Packaging/Manufacturer):

• Parts sharing the LM2901 base product number with identical or compatible electrical specifications
• Must maintain 4-element comparator configuration
• Must support equivalent supply voltage ranges
• Must provide compatible output types (Open-Collector minimum requirement)
• Package compatibility: 14-DIP through-hole mounting preferred; 14-SOIC surface mount acceptable with board redesign

Similar Substitutes (Related Product Lines):

• LM339 series comparators with 4 independent elements
• Electrical specifications must fall within or exceed LM2901N parameters
• Operating temperature range may differ; verify application requirements
• Package options include 14-DIP through-hole and 14-SOIC surface mount

Key Parameters Determining Substitutability:

• Number of comparator elements: 4 (mandatory)
• Output type: Open-Collector (minimum requirement for TTL/DTL compatibility)
• Supply voltage range: Must encompass 2V ~ 36V single or ±1V ~ ±18V dual
• Input offset voltage: 7mV maximum @ 5V or better
• Input bias current: 0.25µA maximum @ 5V or better
• Output current: 16mA minimum @ 5V
• Quiescent current: 2.5mA maximum
• Operating temperature: -40°C ~ 85°C minimum range
• RoHS3 compliance and MSL rating for manufacturing compatibility

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Preferred Direct Substitutes (LM2901 Base Product):

LM2901N/NOPB (Texas Instruments) is the primary recommended substitute. It maintains identical electrical specifications to the original LM2901N, operates across the full -40°C to 85°C temperature range, and is currently in active production status. The 14-DIP through-hole package provides direct board compatibility without layout modifications. RoHS3 compliance and MSL 1 rating ensure manufacturing process compatibility.

LM2901DR2G (onsemi) serves as an alternative for surface-mount applications. While the 14-SOIC package requires PCB redesign, this part offers extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 105°C) and maintains active product status with high inventory availability. Electrical specifications remain compatible with the original design.

LM2901D (STMicroelectronics) provides the widest operating temperature range (-40°C to 125°C) in a 14-SOIC surface-mount package. This option is suitable for applications requiring enhanced thermal performance or extended temperature operation, provided board layout accommodates the SOIC footprint.

Secondary Substitutes (LM339 Series):

LM339NE3 (Texas Instruments) and LM339N (STMicroelectronics) are functionally equivalent 4-element comparators with open-collector outputs. Both maintain the 14-DIP through-hole package format. However, the operating temperature range is restricted to 0°C to 70°C, making these options unsuitable for applications requiring -40°C operation. Input offset voltage is improved (5mV maximum), and output current capability is comparable or superior. These parts are appropriate only for commercial temperature range applications.

Avoid for New Designs:

LP2901N (Texas Instruments) carries Last Time Buy status, indicating discontinued production. While electrically compatible, this part should not be selected for new designs due to limited future availability. Quiescent current specification (100µA maximum) also exceeds the original design parameter.

LM339N (STMicroelectronics) is obsolete and should not be used for new production.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use LM2901DR2G as a direct replacement for LM2901N?

A: Electrically, yes. The LM2901DR2G maintains all critical electrical specifications and is manufactured by the same supplier (onsemi). However, the package differs: LM2901DR2G uses 14-SOIC surface-mount while LM2901N uses 14-DIP through-hole. Direct board substitution requires PCB redesign and rework of the component footprint. If your application board supports SOIC packages, this is a viable substitute with the advantage of active product status and extended temperature range.

Q: What is the minimum acceptable output current for a substitute part?

A: The LM2901N specifies 18mA typical output current at 5V. Substitute parts must provide at least 16mA at 5V to ensure adequate drive capability for standard TTL/CMOS logic loads. LM339NE3 exceeds this with 20mA, while LP2901N provides 30mA. Verify your specific load requirements before selecting a substitute with lower output current specifications.

Q: Can I use LM339NE3 in place of LM2901N?

A: Functionally, the LM339NE3 is compatible for most applications. Both are 4-element open-collector comparators with identical pin configurations and similar electrical performance. The critical limitation is operating temperature: LM339NE3 operates only from 0°C to 70°C, while LM2901N operates from -40°C to 85°C. If your application requires operation below 0°C or above 70°C, LM339NE3 is not suitable. For commercial temperature range applications only, LM339NE3 is an acceptable substitute with improved input offset voltage (5mV vs. 7mV).

Q: Why does LM2901D show a different supply voltage range than LM2901N?

A: LM2901D (STMicroelectronics) specifies 2V ~ 32V single supply and ±1V ~ ±16V dual supply, compared to LM2901N's 2V ~ 36V and ±1V ~ ±18V. This represents a tighter specification from the manufacturer, not a functional limitation. For applications operating within the LM2901D range, this part is fully compatible. Applications requiring operation above 32V single supply or ±16V dual supply must use LM2901N, LM2901N/NOPB, or LM2901DR2G.

Q: Is LP2901N still available for purchase?

A: LP2901N carries Last Time Buy status, indicating the manufacturer has announced end-of-life production. While some inventory may remain in distribution channels, this part should not be selected for new designs or long-term production commitments. Use LM2901N/NOPB or LM2901DR2G instead for assured future availability.

Q: What is the difference between LM2901N and LM2901N/NOPB?

A: Both parts are manufactured by Texas Instruments and share identical electrical specifications, operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C), and 14-DIP package format. The "/NOPB" suffix indicates "No Lead (Pb)" and confirms RoHS compliance. Functionally, these parts are equivalent. LM2901N/NOPB is the current production designation and is recommended for new designs.

Q: Can I use a surface-mount LM2901DR2G on a through-hole board designed for LM2901N?

A: No, not without significant board modification. LM2901DR2G uses a 14-SOIC surface-mount package, while LM2901N uses a 14-DIP through-hole package. The footprints are incompatible. If board redesign is feasible, LM2901DR2G is electrically superior with extended temperature range and active production status. For existing through-hole boards, use LM2901N/NOPB or LM2901N (National Semiconductor) to maintain compatibility.

Q: What does RoHS3 compliance mean for component selection?

A: RoHS3 compliance certifies that the component meets Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive requirements, specifically restricting lead, cadmium, mercury, and other hazardous materials. All recommended substitute parts carry RoHS3 certification, ensuring compatibility with modern manufacturing processes and regulatory requirements. This is a mandatory consideration for new designs and production environments subject to environmental regulations.

Q: How does MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level) affect component handling?

A: MSL 1 (Unlimited) indicates the component has no moisture sensitivity restrictions and requires no special storage or handling procedures. LM2901N, LM2901DR2G, LM2901D, and LM2901N/NOPB all carry MSL 1 rating. LM339NE3 and LP2901N show "Not Applicable" MSL ratings, which typically indicates older manufacturing data or components with inherent moisture resistance. For manufacturing environments with controlled humidity, all listed parts are suitable.