PL138-98FC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PL138-98FC is a Clock Fanout Buffer (Distribution), Multiplexer IC manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for high-speed clock distribution applications. This device features a 2:9 input-to-output ratio with a maximum frequency of 700 MHz and supports multiple input signal types (CML, HCSL, LVCMOS, LVDS, LVHSTL, LVPECL, SSTL) with LVPECL output. The part is classified as obsolete, making equivalent or substitute components necessary for new designs or inventory replenishment.

Substiute Parts

PL138-98FC

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 720PL138-98FC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PL583000XC

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1256PL583000XC Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

8531AY-01LF

Renesas Electronics CorporationIn Stock: 10188531AY-01LF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the PL138-98FC are evaluated based on the following critical parameters that determine functional compatibility:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Input-to-output ratio (2:9)
• Differential input and output capability (Yes/Yes)
• Output signal type (LVPECL)
• Package type (32-pin LQFP or equivalent)
• Surface mount configuration
• RoHS3 compliance and MSL rating

Substitute Parts Identified:

1. PL583000XC (Microchip Technology) - Manufacturer-recommended substitute. Active product status. Maintains 32-LQFP package configuration and RoHS3 compliance. Detailed specifications for frequency and voltage parameters not provided in source data.

2. 8531AY-01LF (Renesas Electronics Corporation) - Cross-manufacturer substitute with documented compatibility. Maintains 2:9 input-to-output ratio, differential input/output capability, and LVPECL output. Operates at 500 MHz maximum frequency (lower than original 700 MHz). Supply voltage range 3.135V ~ 3.465V (narrower than original). Package specified as 32-TQFP (7x7). Obsolete product status. RoHS3 compliant with matching MSL rating.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

PL583000XC Selection Criteria: This Microchip Technology part is the manufacturer-recommended substitute and carries active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. It maintains the same package footprint (32-LQFP) and compliance certifications (ROHS3, MSL 3). Selection of this part is appropriate for new designs requiring clock fanout buffer functionality with guaranteed future availability.

8531AY-01LF Selection Criteria: This Renesas Electronics part provides cross-manufacturer substitution with documented 2:9 ratio and LVPECL output compatibility. However, the maximum frequency specification of 500 MHz is 200 MHz lower than the original PL138-98FC. The supply voltage range is narrower (3.135V ~ 3.465V versus 2.375V ~ 3.63V). The package designation as 32-TQFP requires PCB layout verification for pin compatibility despite similar physical dimensions. This part is suitable only for applications where the 500 MHz frequency ceiling and narrower voltage tolerance are acceptable. Both parts share obsolete status, indicating limited future availability.

Compliance Considerations: All identified substitutes maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical MSL ratings, ensuring compatibility with standard manufacturing and storage protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PL583000XC directly replace PL138-98FC in existing designs? A: PL583000XC is the manufacturer-recommended substitute and maintains the same 32-LQFP package footprint and compliance certifications. However, complete electrical specifications for PL583000XC are not provided in this reference. Detailed datasheet comparison is required to confirm frequency, voltage, and input signal type compatibility before implementation.

Q: What are the key differences between 8531AY-01LF and PL138-98FC? A: The 8531AY-01LF operates at a maximum frequency of 500 MHz compared to 700 MHz for the PL138-98FC. The supply voltage range is narrower: 3.135V ~ 3.465V versus 2.375V ~ 3.63V. Both maintain 2:9 input-to-output ratio, differential capability, and LVPECL output. The package is specified as 32-TQFP rather than 32-LQFP Exposed Pad, requiring PCB layout verification.

Q: Are there input signal type compatibility concerns with 8531AY-01LF? A: The 8531AY-01LF supports CML, HCSL, LVDS, LVHSTL, LVPECL, and SSTL inputs, which is a subset of the PL138-98FC input types (which additionally supports LVCMOS). If LVCMOS input is required, 8531AY-01LF is not suitable.

Q: What is the significance of the package designation difference (LQFP Exposed Pad versus TQFP)? A: Both are 32-pin surface mount packages with 7x7mm dimensions. The exposed pad on the PL138-98FC provides additional thermal dissipation. The 8531AY-01LF without exposed pad may have different thermal characteristics. PCB layout and thermal management requirements must be evaluated for each application.

Q: Why is PL138-98FC classified as obsolete? A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued production. Existing inventory may be available through authorized distributors, but long-term supply cannot be guaranteed. For new designs, selection of the active PL583000XC is recommended.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS3 compliant? A: Yes. PL138-98FC, PL583000XC, and 8531AY-01LF are all ROHS3 compliant with MSL rating 3 (168 Hours), ensuring compatibility with standard manufacturing and storage protocols.