PCA9538DBR Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PCA9538DBR is an 8-bit I/O Expander designed for I2C and SMBus communication at 400 kHz, packaged in a 16-SSOP surface mount configuration. This device is classified as Obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute parts essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations. The PCA9538DBR provides push-pull output capability with interrupt output functionality, operating across a supply voltage range of 2.3V to 5.5V and temperature range of -40°C to 85°C.

Substiute Parts

PCA9538DBR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 2997PCA9538DBR Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TCA9538DBR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 999TCA9538DBR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PCA9538DBR is determined by strict alignment of the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Number of I/O: 8 bits
• Interface Protocol: I2C at 400 kHz minimum
• Package Type: 16-SSOP with identical 0.209" (5.30mm) width
• Output Type: Push-Pull
• Interrupt Output: Present
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 85°C minimum
• RoHS3 Compliance: Required

Voltage Supply Compatibility: The substitute part must support the operating voltage range of the system. The PCA9538DBR operates from 2.3V to 5.5V. Substitute parts with equal or wider voltage ranges are acceptable.

Packaging Format: While the main part is supplied in Cut Tape (CT) & Digi-Reel® format, substitute parts in Tape & Reel (TR) format are mechanically and electrically equivalent for board-level integration.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The TCA9538DBR is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete PCA9538DBR. Both devices are manufactured by Texas Instruments and share identical I/O count, interface protocol frequency, package geometry, and operating temperature specifications.

The TCA9538DBR offers an extended lower voltage supply limit of 1.65V compared to the PCA9538DBR's 2.3V minimum, providing greater flexibility for low-voltage applications. The TCA9538DBR maintains ROHS3 compliance and is currently in Active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.

For applications currently using the PCA9538DBR, the TCA9538DBR provides direct functional equivalence with no redesign required at the board level. Pin configuration, package footprint, and electrical interface characteristics remain identical.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TCA9538DBR directly replace the PCA9538DBR without PCB modifications?

A: Yes. Both devices use the 16-SSOP package with identical 0.209" (5.30mm) width and pin configuration. No PCB layout changes are required for substitution.

Q: What is the difference between the voltage supply ranges?

A: The PCA9538DBR operates from 2.3V to 5.5V, while the TCA9538DBR operates from 1.65V to 5.5V. The TCA9538DBR supports lower voltage applications. Both are compatible with standard 3.3V and 5V system designs.

Q: Are there differences in I2C protocol support?

A: The PCA9538DBR supports both I2C and SMBus protocols at 400 kHz. The TCA9538DBR supports I2C at 400 kHz. For SMBus-specific applications, verify that I2C mode operation meets system requirements.

Q: What is the significance of the product status change from Obsolete to Active?

A: The TCA9538DBR's Active status indicates current manufacturing and availability. This ensures reliable supply chain access and technical support from the manufacturer, addressing the obsolescence risk of the PCA9538DBR.

Q: Are packaging formats interchangeable?

A: The PCA9538DBR is supplied in Cut Tape (CT) & Digi-Reel® format, while the TCA9538DBR is supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) format. Both formats are compatible with standard pick-and-place assembly equipment. Format selection depends on production volume and assembly line requirements.