LM4868MTE/NOPB Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LM4868MTE/NOPB is a Class AB stereo amplifier IC manufactured by Texas Instruments, designed for 2-channel stereo headphone applications. This device delivers 3W per channel at 3Ohm load impedance with integrated features including depop circuitry, input multiplexer, shutdown control, and thermal protection. The part operates across a 2V to 5.5V supply voltage range and is housed in a 20-HTSSOP surface mount package.

The LM4868MTE/NOPB carries an Obsolete product status. Locating equivalent substitute components is necessary to ensure design continuity, maintain supply chain reliability, and support long-term product availability for applications currently utilizing this amplifier IC.

Substiute Parts

LM4868MTE/NOPB

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 962LM4868MTE/NOPB Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LM4873MTEX/NOPB

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 2470LM4873MTEX/NOPB Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the LM4868MTE/NOPB is determined by strict alignment across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Criteria:

• Amplifier classification: Class AB topology
• Output configuration: 2-Channel (Stereo) with Stereo Headphones
• Supply voltage range: 2V ~ 5.5V
• Integrated feature set: Depop, Input Multiplexer, Shutdown, Thermal Protection
• Mounting type: Surface Mount
• Package type: 20-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
• Operating temperature range: -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
• Regulatory compliance: ROHS3 Compliant, REACH Unaffected

Output Power Considerations: Substitute parts must maintain output power specifications at standard load impedances. Variations in output power at specific load impedances do not disqualify substitution when the core amplifier topology and feature set remain identical.

The LM4873MTEX/NOPB satisfies all mandatory matching criteria and is classified as a manufacturer-recommended substitute.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The LM4873MTEX/NOPB is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete LM4868MTE/NOPB. Selection of this substitute is supported by the following engineering factors:

Product Status Alignment: The LM4873MTEX/NOPB maintains Active product status, ensuring ongoing manufacturing support, availability, and technical documentation from Texas Instruments. The LM4868MTE/NOPB is classified as Obsolete, creating supply chain risk and limiting access to new inventory.

Functional and Electrical Equivalence: Both devices share identical Class AB amplifier topology, 2-channel stereo headphone output configuration, supply voltage range (2V ~ 5.5V), and integrated feature set (depop, input multiplexer, shutdown, thermal protection). Operating temperature range and thermal characteristics remain constant across both parts.

Package and Mechanical Compatibility: Both parts utilize the 20-PowerTSSOP surface mount package with identical physical dimensions (0.173", 4.40mm Width). PCB layout, footprint, and component placement require no modification for substitution.

Regulatory and Compliance Equivalence: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance, REACH Unaffected status, and identical moisture sensitivity levels (MSL 1, Unlimited). No compliance or certification barriers exist for substitution.

Packaging Format Consideration: The LM4873MTEX/NOPB is supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) format, while the LM4868MTE/NOPB was supplied in Tube format. This difference affects procurement and handling procedures but does not impact electrical or mechanical compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LM4873MTEX/NOPB be used as a direct replacement for the LM4868MTE/NOPB in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both devices are electrically and mechanically equivalent across all critical parameters: Class AB amplifier topology, 2-channel stereo output, identical supply voltage range, matching feature set, and identical 20-PowerTSSOP package. No circuit modifications or PCB redesign is required.

Q: What is the primary reason for substituting the LM4868MTE/NOPB?

A: The LM4868MTE/NOPB carries Obsolete product status, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited inventory availability. The LM4873MTEX/NOPB is an Active product with ongoing manufacturing support and reliable supply chain availability.

Q: Are there differences in output power specifications between these parts?

A: Both parts deliver 3W per channel at 3Ohm load impedance. The LM4868MTE/NOPB specifies 208mW per channel at 16Ohm load. The LM4873MTEX/NOPB specifies 440mW per channel at 8Ohm load. These variations reflect different load impedance test conditions and do not indicate functional incompatibility. Core output capability at the primary 3Ohm specification remains identical.

Q: Does the packaging format difference (Tube vs. Tape & Reel) affect component performance?

A: No. Packaging format affects procurement, storage, and assembly handling procedures only. The LM4873MTEX/NOPB supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) format contains the identical die and internal circuitry as the tubed LM4868MTE/NOPB. Electrical and thermal performance are unaffected by packaging format.

Q: Are both parts compliant with current regulatory standards?

A: Yes. Both the LM4868MTE/NOPB and LM4873MTEX/NOPB are ROHS3 Compliant and REACH Unaffected. Both maintain identical moisture sensitivity levels (MSL 1, Unlimited). No regulatory barriers exist for substitution.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for both parts?

A: Both parts operate across -40°C to 85°C (TA). Thermal protection circuitry is integrated into both devices. Operating temperature specifications are identical.

Q: Can PCB footprints designed for the LM4868MTE/NOPB accommodate the LM4873MTEX/NOPB without modification?

A: Yes. Both parts use the 20-PowerTSSOP package with identical physical dimensions (0.173", 4.40mm Width). PCB footprints, pin assignments, and component placement are fully compatible. No PCB redesign is necessary.