PL138-18FC-R Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PL138-18FC-R 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-R

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 774PL138-18FC-R Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SY100EP111UTG

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 5674SY100EP111UTG Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the PL138-18FC-R is determined by the following critical parameters:

Functional Requirements:

• Input:Output ratio of 2:10
• Fanout Buffer (Distribution) Multiplexer topology
• Support for differential input and output signals

Electrical Requirements:

• Maximum frequency capability equal to or greater than 700 MHz
• Supply voltage range compatibility (minimum 2.375V support)
• Input signal type compatibility (LVPECL input support required)
• Output signal type compatibility (LVPECL output support required)

Physical Requirements:

• Surface mount package with 32-pin configuration
• Package footprint compatibility (7x7mm dimensions)

Compliance Requirements:

• ROHS3 compliance
• REACH unaffected status
• EAR99 export classification

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

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SY100EP111UTG is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete PL138-18FC-R. Selection is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The PL138-18FC-R is obsolete with no continued manufacturing. The SY100EP111UTG is an active product with full manufacturing support and availability (5654 pcs in stock vs. 761 pcs for the legacy part).

Compliance Certification: Both devices maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, ensuring regulatory compatibility in new designs. Both carry EAR99 export classification.

Functional Compatibility: The SY100EP111UTG maintains the identical 2:10 input:output ratio and differential signal support required for clock distribution applications. Input compatibility includes LVPECL, and output is available in both LVECL and LVPECL formats.

Performance Enhancement: The substitute provides superior frequency capability (3 GHz vs. 700 MHz), extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C vs. 0°C ~ 70°C), and improved moisture sensitivity rating (MSL 1 vs. MSL 3), reducing handling and storage constraints.

Package Consideration: The SY100EP111UTG uses 32-TQFP packaging versus the original 32-LQFP Exposed Pad. Both are 7x7mm surface mount packages with identical pin counts. PCB layout modifications may be required due to package footprint differences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

A: The SY100EP111UTG maintains the same pin count (32) and package dimensions (7x7mm), but uses TQFP instead of LQFP Exposed Pad packaging. Footprint verification is required before PCB implementation. Pin-to-pin compatibility must be confirmed against the respective datasheets.

Q: What are the key differences in electrical specifications?

A: The SY100EP111UTG provides higher maximum frequency (3 GHz vs. 700 MHz), extended supply voltage range (up to 3.8V vs. 3.63V), and wider operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C vs. 0°C ~ 70°C). These enhancements make it suitable for more demanding applications while maintaining backward compatibility for legacy 700 MHz designs.

Q: Are input signal types compatible between the two devices?

A: The PL138-18FC-R accepts CML, HCSL, LVCMOS, LVDS, LVHSTL, LVPECL, and SSTL inputs. The SY100EP111UTG accepts HSTL, LVECL, and LVPECL inputs. LVPECL input is supported by both devices. Applications using other input types require verification against the SY100EP111UTG datasheet.

Q: What is the significance of the MSL rating difference?

A: The PL138-18FC-R has MSL 3 (168-hour moisture sensitivity limit), while the SY100EP111UTG has MSL 1 (unlimited). MSL 1 provides greater flexibility in storage, handling, and manufacturing processes, reducing the risk of moisture-induced failures during assembly.

Q: Is the SY100EP111UTG suitable for new designs?

A: Yes. The SY100EP111UTG is an active product with full manufacturing support. It is the manufacturer-recommended substitute and is suitable for both legacy replacement and new design implementations.

Q: Are there additional substitute options available?

A: The SY100EP111UTG datasheet references additional substitutes including MC100LVEP111FARG, MC100LVEP111FAG, M100LVEP111FATWG, CDCLVP110MVFR, and CDCLVP110VF. These alternatives should be evaluated against specific application requirements and package constraints.