PC16C550DVX Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PC16C550DVX is a Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) interface IC manufactured by Texas Instruments, designed for serial communication applications requiring a 16-byte FIFO buffer. This single-channel UART operates at a maximum data rate of 1.5 Mbps and is housed in a 44-pin PLCC package with J-lead configuration.

The PC16C550DVX is classified as an obsolete product. Finding equivalent or substitute parts is necessary when this component is no longer available from inventory or when design requirements call for components with active product status and improved compliance certifications.

Substiute Parts

PC16550DVX

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 4291PC16550DVX Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TL16C550CIFNR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1456TL16C550CIFNR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PC16C550DVX is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Single UART Channel: Substitute parts must provide exactly one UART channel to maintain functional equivalence
• 16-Byte FIFO Buffer: The buffer depth must match to ensure identical data handling capacity
• 44-Pin PLCC Package (J-Lead): Physical and electrical compatibility requires identical package configuration
• Surface Mount Mounting Type: Substitute parts must use surface mount technology for PCB compatibility
• Modem Control Support: Modem control signals must be present in substitute parts
• False Start Bit Detection: This error detection feature must be retained in substitute parts

The TL16C550CIFNR, manufactured by Texas Instruments, meets all critical substitution criteria. It maintains the same channel count, FIFO depth, package type, and mounting configuration as the PC16C550DVX while offering improved product status and compliance certifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The TL16C550CIFNR is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the PC16C550DVX. Selection of this substitute part is justified on the following engineering grounds:

Product Status: The TL16C550CIFNR maintains active product status, ensuring long-term availability and continued manufacturer support, whereas the PC16C550DVX is obsolete.

Compliance Certifications: The TL16C550CIFNR is ROHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements. The PC16C550DVX is RoHS non-compliant and does not meet modern compliance standards.

Functional Equivalence: Both parts maintain identical channel count, FIFO depth, package configuration, and core modem control features, ensuring direct functional substitution in existing designs.

Voltage Compatibility: The TL16C550CIFNR operates across a wider supply voltage range (3V ~ 5.25V) compared to the PC16C550DVX (4.5V ~ 5.5V), providing greater design flexibility while maintaining compatibility with 5V systems.

Data Rate Consideration: The TL16C550CIFNR supports a maximum data rate of 1 Mbps, which is lower than the PC16C550DVX specification of 1.5 Mbps. Applications requiring data rates above 1 Mbps must be evaluated for compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TL16C550CIFNR be used as a direct replacement for the PC16C550DVX?

A: Yes, the TL16C550CIFNR is the manufacturer-recommended substitute. Both parts share identical channel count, FIFO depth, package type, and mounting configuration. The primary design consideration is the maximum data rate: the TL16C550CIFNR supports 1 Mbps versus the PC16C550DVX at 1.5 Mbps.

Q: Are there any package compatibility issues when substituting the TL16C550CIFNR?

A: No. Both the PC16C550DVX and TL16C550CIFNR use the 44-pin PLCC package with J-lead configuration (16.58x16.58 mm). Physical and electrical compatibility is maintained.

Q: What is the significance of the RoHS compliance difference?

A: The TL16C550CIFNR is ROHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental regulations and industry standards. The PC16C550DVX is RoHS non-compliant. For new designs or applications subject to regulatory requirements, the TL16C550CIFNR is the appropriate choice.

Q: Does the TL16C550CIFNR support modem control functions?

A: Yes. The TL16C550CIFNR includes modem control support and false start bit detection, matching the feature set of the PC16C550DVX.

Q: What is the impact of the wider voltage range in the TL16C550CIFNR?

A: The TL16C550CIFNR operates from 3V to 5.25V, compared to the PC16C550DVX range of 4.5V to 5.5V. This wider range provides design flexibility for low-voltage applications while remaining compatible with standard 5V systems.

Q: Is the Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) difference significant?

A: The TL16C550CIFNR has an MSL rating of 3 (168 hours), compared to MSL 1 (unlimited) for the PC16C550DVX. This affects storage and handling procedures. The TL16C550CIFNR requires controlled moisture exposure during storage and has a defined shelf life after opening.