PL138-18FC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PL138-18FC is a Clock Fanout Buffer (Distribution) Multiplexer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for 2:10 clock distribution applications with a maximum frequency of 700 MHz. This device features a 32-LQFP Exposed Pad package and supports multiple input signal types including CML, HCSL, LVCMOS, LVDS, LVHSTL, LVPECL, and SSTL, with LVPECL output. The product is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for new designs or component replacement in legacy systems.

Substiute Parts

PL138-18FC

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 735PL138-18FC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SY100EP111UTG

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 5674SY100EP111UTG Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PL138-18FC is based on the following critical parameters that must be maintained or exceeded:

Functional Requirements:

• Input:Output ratio of 2:10
• Differential input and output capability
• LVPECL output compatibility

Electrical Requirements:

• Maximum frequency capability of at least 700 MHz
• Supply voltage range compatibility with 2.375V ~ 3.63V
• Input signal type compatibility (minimum LVPECL support)

Physical Requirements:

• 32-pin package in LQFP or TQFP form factor
• Surface mount technology
• 7x7mm package footprint

The SY100EP111UTG meets all substitution criteria with enhanced specifications, including higher maximum frequency (3 GHz), extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C), and improved moisture sensitivity rating (MSL 1).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SY100EP111UTG is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete PL138-18FC. Both devices are manufactured by Microchip Technology and maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status.

Advantages of SY100EP111UTG:

• Active product status ensures long-term availability and support
• Higher maximum frequency (3 GHz) provides operational margin beyond the 700 MHz requirement
• Extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C) accommodates broader environmental conditions
• Improved moisture sensitivity rating (MSL 1) reduces handling and storage constraints
• Expanded supply voltage range (2.375V ~ 3.8V) provides additional design flexibility

Package Consideration: The substitute uses 32-TQFP packaging instead of 32-LQFP Exposed Pad. Both packages maintain the same 7x7mm footprint and surface mount technology, supporting direct PCB layout compatibility with minimal redesign.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SY100EP111UTG directly replace the PL138-18FC without circuit modifications?

A: The SY100EP111UTG maintains the same 2:10 input:output ratio, differential input/output capability, and LVPECL output compatibility. The 32-pin package footprint (7x7mm) is identical. However, the package type differs (TQFP vs. LQFP Exposed Pad), requiring PCB layout verification for pin compatibility and thermal characteristics.

Q: What input signal types does the SY100EP111UTG support compared to the PL138-18FC?

A: The PL138-18FC supports CML, HCSL, LVCMOS, LVDS, LVHSTL, LVPECL, and SSTL inputs. The SY100EP111UTG supports HSTL, LVECL, and LVPECL inputs. Applications using only LVPECL input signals are fully compatible. Applications requiring CML, HCSL, LVCMOS, LVDS, LVHSTL, or SSTL inputs require input signal conditioning or alternative component selection.

Q: Is the SY100EP111UTG suitable for applications requiring 700 MHz operation?

A: Yes. The SY100EP111UTG has a maximum frequency rating of 3 GHz, which exceeds the 700 MHz requirement of the original PL138-18FC. This provides operational margin and supports future design upgrades.

Q: What are the moisture sensitivity implications of switching from PL138-18FC to SY100EP111UTG?

A: The PL138-18FC has MSL 3 rating (168 hours), requiring controlled storage and handling. The SY100EP111UTG has MSL 1 rating (unlimited), eliminating moisture sensitivity constraints and reducing component handling and storage costs.

Q: Are both devices RoHS and REACH compliant?

A: Yes. Both the PL138-18FC and SY100EP111UTG are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting regulatory requirements for electronic component use.