PCR1A121MCL1GS Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PCR1A121MCL1GS is a 120 µF, 10 V aluminum polymer capacitor manufactured by Nichicon in the PCR series. This surface mount component is designed for automotive applications with AEC-Q200 qualification. The part is currently obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing production support, design updates, and inventory management.

Substiute Parts

PCR1A121MCL1GS

NichiconIn Stock: 1086PCR1A121MCL1GS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PCS1A121MCL1GS

NichiconIn Stock: 3093PCS1A121MCL1GS Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

APXE100ARA121MF61G

Chemi-ConIn Stock: 2470APXE100ARA121MF61G Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the PCR1A121MCL1GS are qualified based on the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Equivalence Criteria:

• Capacitance: 120 µF (exact match required)
• Voltage Rating: 10 V (exact match required)
• Type: Aluminum Polymer (exact match required)
• Tolerance: ±20% (exact match required)

Mechanical Compatibility Criteria:

• Mounting Type: Surface Mount (exact match required)
• Package: Radial, Can - SMD (exact match required)
• Surface Mount Land Size: 0.260" L x 0.260" W (6.60mm x 6.60mm) maximum acceptable footprint

Compliance Criteria:

• RoHS3 Compliant (required)

The following parts meet these substitution criteria: PCS1A121MCL1GS (Nichicon) and APXE100ARA121MF61G (Chemi-Con).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

PCS1A121MCL1GS (Nichicon): This substitute is an active product from the same manufacturer, offering improved electrical performance with lower ESR (27 mOhm vs. 60 mOhm) and higher ripple current capability (2.3 A vs. 800 mA). The part maintains ROHS3 compliance and is available in Tape & Reel packaging. The primary consideration is the increased footprint (0.248" diameter vs. 0.197" diameter) and reduced maximum operating temperature (105°C vs. 125°C). This part is suitable for applications where the PCB layout can accommodate the larger package size and where the operating temperature does not exceed 105°C.

APXE100ARA121MF61G (Chemi-Con): This substitute from Chemi-Con's NPCAP™-PXE series provides the lowest ESR (25 mOhm) and highest ripple current capability (2.53 A). The part is ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. The footprint matches the PCS1A121MCL1GS (0.248" diameter) with a slightly lower profile (0.228" vs. 0.236"). The lifetime specification is lower (2000 Hrs @ 105°C vs. 4000 Hrs @ 125°C for the main part), and the maximum operating temperature is 105°C. This part is suitable for general purpose applications where the lower lifetime rating is acceptable and operating temperature remains below 105°C.

Both substitutes are electrically and mechanically compatible with the obsolete PCR1A121MCL1GS. Selection between them depends on specific application requirements regarding footprint constraints, thermal environment, and reliability specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PCS1A121MCL1GS and APXE100ARA121MF61G be used interchangeably with PCR1A121MCL1GS?

A: Both parts meet the core electrical specifications (120 µF, 10 V, ±20% tolerance, aluminum polymer type) and mechanical requirements (surface mount, radial can SMD package). However, the larger footprint (0.248" diameter vs. 0.197" diameter) requires PCB layout verification. The reduced maximum operating temperature (105°C vs. 125°C) must be evaluated against application thermal requirements.

Q: What is the primary difference between the two substitute parts?

A: Both substitutes offer lower ESR and higher ripple current than the original PCR1A121MCL1GS. The PCS1A121MCL1GS provides better lifetime performance (5000 Hrs @ 105°C), while the APXE100ARA121MF61G offers the lowest ESR (25 mOhm) and highest ripple current (2.53 A). The APXE100ARA121MF61G has a slightly lower profile (0.228" vs. 0.236").

Q: Are there packaging differences between the main part and substitutes?

A: Yes. The PCR1A121MCL1GS is supplied in Cut Tape (CT) packaging, while both substitutes are supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) packaging. This affects handling, storage, and automated assembly processes.

Q: Do the substitutes maintain the same compliance certifications?

A: Both substitutes are ROHS3 compliant. The PCS1A121MCL1GS is REACH affected, while the APXE100ARA121MF61G is REACH unaffected. The original PCR1A121MCL1GS is REACH unaffected. Regulatory requirements should be verified for your specific application.

Q: What is the impact of the larger package size on PCB design?

A: The substitute parts have a 0.248" diameter (6.30mm) compared to the original 0.197" diameter (5.00mm). The surface mount land size increases from 0.209" x 0.209" (5.30mm x 5.30mm) to 0.260" x 0.260" (6.60mm x 6.60mm). PCB layout must be verified to ensure adequate clearance and routing space around the component location.

Q: Which substitute is recommended for automotive applications?

A: The original PCR1A121MCL1GS carries AEC-Q200 automotive qualification. The substitutes do not list automotive ratings. If AEC-Q200 qualification is required, alternative solutions should be explored. If automotive qualification is not mandatory, both substitutes are suitable for general purpose automotive environments within their specified operating temperature ranges.