MPC3AC LED Panel Indicator Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MPC3AC is an amber LED panel indicator manufactured by Bivar Inc., designed for panel-mount applications with wire termination. This component is classified as obsolete, which necessitates identification of equivalent substitute parts for ongoing production and maintenance requirements. The MPC3AC features a 3mm T-1 lens form factor with a 0.24" (6.10mm) round panel cutout, amber lamp color with clear lens transparency, and operates at 2V with 30mA maximum current.

Substiute Parts

MPC3AC

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 1077MPC3AC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MPC3ADW12.0

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 820MPC3ADW12.0 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MPC3AC is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Manufacturer: Bivar Inc. (same manufacturer ensures design compatibility)
• Series: MPC3 (same product line)
• Lamp Color: Amber (optical output requirement)
• Voltage: 2V (electrical compatibility)
• Current: 30mA (electrical compatibility)
• Panel Cutout Shape: Round (mechanical fit)
• Panel Cutout Dimensions: 0.24" (6.10mm) (mechanical fit)
• Lens Size: 3mm, T-1 (form factor)
• Lens Style: Round with Domed Top (form factor)
• Wavelength - Peak: 605nm (optical specification)

Parameters Allowed to Vary:

• Lens Color: Clear or Amber (both provide amber optical output)
• Lens Transparency: Clear or Diffused (affects light distribution)
• Millicandela Rating: 40mcd or 25mcd (brightness variation acceptable within application tolerance)
• Viewing Angle: 20° or 35° (viewing angle variation acceptable)
• Termination Style: Wire leads with specified length
• Product Status: Active status preferred over obsolete

The MPC3ADW12.0 qualifies as a substitute based on these criteria, with the primary difference being lens transparency (diffused vs. clear) and wire lead length specification (12" / 304.80mm).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Substitute: MPC3ADW12.0

The MPC3ADW12.0 is the designated substitute for the obsolete MPC3AC. Selection of this substitute is based on the following engineering criteria:

1. Product Status Alignment: The MPC3ADW12.0 maintains active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support from Bivar Inc., whereas the MPC3AC is obsolete.

2. Electrical Compatibility: Both parts operate at identical voltage (2V) and current (30mA) specifications, ensuring direct electrical substitution without circuit modification.

3. Mechanical Compatibility: Both parts share identical panel cutout dimensions (0.24" / 6.10mm round), lens size (3mm T-1), and lens style (round with domed top), enabling direct mechanical replacement in existing panel designs.

4. Optical Compatibility: Both parts emit amber light at the same peak wavelength (605nm), maintaining consistent optical output for indicator applications.

5. Regulatory Compliance: Both parts carry identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8541.41.0000) classifications and MSL rating (1 - Unlimited). The MPC3ADW12.0 additionally carries ROHS3 compliance certification.

Parameter Variations Acceptable for Substitution:

• Lens Transparency: The MPC3ADW12.0 features diffused lens transparency compared to the clear lens of the MPC3AC. This variation affects light distribution characteristics but maintains amber optical output.

• Millicandela Rating: The MPC3ADW12.0 provides 25mcd compared to the MPC3AC's 40mcd. This represents a reduction in peak brightness; applications requiring the full 40mcd output must evaluate whether 25mcd meets functional requirements.

• Viewing Angle: The MPC3ADW12.0 provides a 35° viewing angle compared to the MPC3AC's 20°. This represents an expanded viewing angle, which is generally compatible with applications designed for narrower angles.

• Wire Lead Length: The MPC3ADW12.0 specifies 12" (304.80mm) wire leads. Applications requiring different lead lengths must address this through secondary assembly or lead modification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MPC3ADW12.0 directly replace the MPC3AC without any modifications?

A: Direct mechanical and electrical replacement is possible due to identical panel cutout dimensions, voltage, and current specifications. However, the diffused lens transparency and reduced millicandela rating (25mcd vs. 40mcd) may affect visual performance. Applications requiring the original 40mcd brightness or specific clear lens characteristics must evaluate whether the MPC3ADW12.0 meets functional requirements. Wire lead length (12" on the substitute) must also be verified for compatibility with existing wiring harnesses.

Q: What is the difference between clear and diffused lens transparency?

A: Clear lens transparency provides direct, focused light output with minimal scattering, resulting in a more concentrated beam. Diffused lens transparency scatters light across a wider area, producing a softer, more dispersed glow. The MPC3AC features clear transparency, while the MPC3ADW12.0 features diffused transparency. Selection depends on the desired visual appearance and light distribution pattern in the application.

Q: Why does the MPC3ADW12.0 have a lower millicandela rating (25mcd vs. 40mcd)?

A: Millicandela rating represents peak luminous intensity. The difference between 25mcd and 40mcd reflects different optical designs. The MPC3ADW12.0's diffused lens distributes light over a wider area, resulting in lower peak intensity but broader visibility. The MPC3AC's clear lens concentrates light, achieving higher peak intensity. Selection depends on whether the application requires peak brightness or distributed visibility.

Q: Are there any compliance or regulatory differences between the two parts?

A: Both parts carry identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8541.41.0000) classifications and MSL rating (1 - Unlimited). The MPC3ADW12.0 additionally carries ROHS3 compliance certification, which may be required for certain applications or markets. The MPC3AC's compliance status is not specified in available documentation.

Q: What is the significance of the 12" wire lead length on the MPC3ADW12.0?

A: The MPC3ADW12.0 specifies 12" (304.80mm) pre-formed wire leads as part of the standard package. The MPC3AC's wire lead length is not specified. If the application requires different lead lengths, the MPC3ADW12.0 leads can be trimmed or extended through secondary assembly, or alternative termination styles within the MPC3 series should be evaluated.

Q: Is the MPC3ADW12.0 available in the same packaging as the MPC3AC?

A: The MPC3ADW12.0 is packaged in bags, while the MPC3AC packaging is not specified. Both parts are available in stock: MPC3AC (1003 pcs) and MPC3ADW12.0 (794 pcs). Packaging differences do not affect component functionality but may impact handling and assembly procedures.

Q: Can I use the MPC3ADW12.0 in applications originally designed for the MPC3AC?

A: Substitution is feasible for most applications due to matching electrical and mechanical specifications. However, applications with specific requirements for 40mcd brightness, clear lens characteristics, or precise wire lead lengths must evaluate whether the MPC3ADW12.0's 25mcd output, diffused lens, and 12" leads are compatible. Testing in the specific application environment is the responsibility of the design engineer.