PE43601MLI RF Attenuator Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PE43601MLI is an RF attenuator manufactured by pSemi, designed for applications requiring variable attenuation in the 9 kHz to 6 GHz frequency range. This component provides 0 dB to 15.75 dB attenuation with 50 Ohm impedance in a 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad package. The part is currently listed as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

PE43601MLI

pSemiIn Stock: 957PE43601MLI Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PE43712B-Z

pSemiIn Stock: 17144PE43712B-Z Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for RF attenuators is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Package Compatibility: Both parts must use identical package types (32-VFQFN Exposed Pad) to ensure PCB layout and thermal management compatibility.
• Impedance Matching: Both parts must maintain 50 Ohm impedance for RF circuit compatibility.
• Frequency Range Coverage: The substitute must support the required frequency band (9 kHz ~ 6 GHz minimum).
• Attenuation Range: The substitute must provide equal or greater attenuation capability to cover the application requirements.
• Moisture Sensitivity: Both parts share MSL 1 classification, ensuring equivalent handling and storage requirements.

The PE43712B-Z qualifies as a substitute because it meets all these criteria while offering extended attenuation range (0 dB ~ 31.75 dB) and active product status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PE43712B-Z is the qualified substitute for PE43601MLI based on the following engineering criteria:

• Package Equivalence: Identical 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad package ensures direct PCB layout compatibility without redesign.
• Electrical Compatibility: Matching 50 Ohm impedance and frequency range (9 kHz ~ 6 GHz) maintain RF circuit performance.
• Extended Capability: The PE43712B-Z provides 0 dB ~ 31.75 dB attenuation range, which fully encompasses the PE43601MLI specification of 0 dB ~ 15.75 dB.
• Product Status: PE43712B-Z is active and in production, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.
• Compliance: PE43712B-Z carries ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, meeting modern regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PE43712B-Z be used as a direct replacement for PE43601MLI?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical package type (32-VFQFN Exposed Pad), impedance (50 Ohms), and frequency range (9 kHz ~ 6 GHz). The PE43712B-Z provides extended attenuation range (0 dB ~ 31.75 dB) that fully covers the PE43601MLI specification (0 dB ~ 15.75 dB).

Q: Are there any PCB layout considerations when substituting PE43712B-Z for PE43601MLI?

A: No layout changes are required. Both parts use the same 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad package, allowing direct footprint compatibility without PCB redesign.

Q: What is the difference in attenuation capability between these parts?

A: PE43601MLI provides 0 dB ~ 15.75 dB attenuation, while PE43712B-Z provides 0 dB ~ 31.75 dB. The PE43712B-Z offers double the maximum attenuation range, making it suitable for applications requiring greater signal reduction.

Q: Does PE43712B-Z meet current regulatory standards?

A: Yes. PE43712B-Z is ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements. PE43601MLI status for these certifications is not specified.

Q: Is PE43712B-Z currently available?

A: Yes. PE43712B-Z is listed as active product status with 17,100 pieces in stock, ensuring reliable supply chain availability compared to the obsolete PE43601MLI.