LM2940C-12 MWC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LM2940C-12 MWC is a linear voltage regulator IC from Texas Instruments designed for positive fixed 12V output at 1A capacity in wafersale packaging. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute parts essential for ongoing design support and production continuity. The wafersale package format and obsolete status necessitate evaluation of alternative configurations that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

LM2940C-12 MWC

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 995LM2940C-12 MWC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LM2940CS-12/NOPB

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 2061LM2940CS-12/NOPB Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the LM2940C-12 MWC is determined by the following critical parameters that must remain constant:

• Base product number: LM2940 (same IC family)
• Output voltage: 12V fixed
• Output current: 1A
• Output configuration: Positive
• Input voltage maximum: 26V
• Protection features: Over Current, Over Temperature, Reverse Polarity, Short Circuit
• RoHS compliance: ROHS3 Compliant

The primary substitute, LM2940CS-12/NOPB, maintains all electrical specifications while transitioning from wafersale packaging to TO-263 (DDPAK-3) surface mount packaging. This substitution is valid because the core IC functionality, voltage regulation characteristics, and protection mechanisms remain identical across the LM2940 family variants.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The LM2940CS-12/NOPB is the designated manufacturer substitute for the obsolete LM2940C-12 MWC. Selection of this substitute is supported by:

• Active product status with current manufacturing availability
• Identical electrical specifications for voltage regulation and current output
• Equivalent protection feature set
• ROHS3 compliance matching the original part
• Improved voltage dropout performance (0.8V vs 1V)
• TO-263 (DDPAK-3) packaging provides standard surface mount compatibility with established PCB design practices

The primary design consideration is the package transition from wafersale to TO-263 format, which requires PCB layout modification but maintains electrical equivalence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LM2940CS-12/NOPB directly replace the LM2940C-12 MWC?

A: Electrically yes, the LM2940CS-12/NOPB provides identical voltage regulation and current output specifications. However, the package format differs (TO-263 vs wafersale), requiring PCB redesign for the new footprint.

Q: What is the key difference between these two parts?

A: The primary difference is packaging format. The LM2940C-12 MWC uses wafersale (die) packaging, while the LM2940CS-12/NOPB uses TO-263 (DDPAK-3) surface mount packaging. Electrical performance is equivalent.

Q: Why is the LM2940C-12 MWC obsolete?

A: The wafersale packaging format has been discontinued by Texas Instruments. The LM2940 family continues in standard surface mount packages like TO-263.

Q: Are there any performance differences I should consider?

A: The LM2940CS-12/NOPB exhibits lower voltage dropout (0.8V vs 1V at 1A), which represents improved efficiency. All other electrical parameters remain equivalent.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the substitute part?

A: The LM2940CS-12/NOPB maintains ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, matching the original part's regulatory standing.

Q: Is PCB layout modification required for substitution?

A: Yes. The TO-263 package footprint differs from wafersale, requiring PCB redesign. Pin configuration and electrical connections remain functionally equivalent.