Bivar PM3HCW12.0 LED Panel Indicator - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Bivar PM3HCW12.0 is a red LED panel indicator with clear lens and 12-inch wire leads, rated for 2V/30mA operation. This part is currently obsolete and no longer in active production. Identifying suitable substitute components is necessary to maintain functionality in existing designs or support legacy system maintenance.

Substiute Parts

PM3HCW12.0

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 836PM3HCW12.0 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM3HDW12.0

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 890PM3HDW12.0 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the PM3HCW12.0 must maintain compatibility across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Compatibility Requirements:

• Lamp color: Red
• Voltage rating: 2V
• Current rating: 30mA
• Lens size: 3mm, T-1
• Panel cutout dimensions: 0.16" (4.06mm) Round
• Termination style: Wire Leads - 12" (304.80mm)
• Wavelength - Peak: 625nm
• Manufacturer: Bivar Inc.

Allowable Variations:

• Lens color and transparency (clear vs. diffused)
• Viewing angle
• Millicandela rating
• Product status (obsolete vs. active)

The PM3HDW12.0 is identified as a direct substitute because it maintains all mandatory compatibility parameters while offering an active product status and enhanced viewing angle characteristics.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM3HDW12.0 is the appropriate substitute for the obsolete PM3HCW12.0. Both parts share identical electrical ratings (2V, 30mA) and physical form factors (3mm T-1 lens, 12-inch wire leads, 0.16" panel cutout). The PM3HDW12.0 offers the advantage of active product status, ensuring continued supply and support. Additionally, the PM3HDW12.0 is ROHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory standards.

The differences in lens color (colorless vs. red), lens transparency (clear vs. diffused), millicandela rating (50mcd vs. 30mcd), and viewing angle (30° vs. 40°) represent allowable variations within the PM3 series. These differences affect visual presentation and light distribution characteristics rather than electrical compatibility. Selection should be based on the specific application's visual requirements and viewing geometry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PM3HDW12.0 directly replace PM3HCW12.0 without circuit modifications?

A: Yes. Both parts are rated at 2V/30mA and use identical wire lead termination. No circuit modifications are required for electrical compatibility.

Q: What is the difference between the clear lens (PM3HCW12.0) and diffused lens (PM3HDW12.0)?

A: The clear lens provides higher brightness (50mcd) with a narrower viewing angle (30°), producing a bright spot appearance. The diffused red lens produces lower brightness (30mcd) with a wider viewing angle (40°), distributing light more evenly across the viewing area.

Q: Is the PM3HDW12.0 suitable for applications requiring the original 50mcd brightness specification?

A: No. The PM3HDW12.0 provides 30mcd brightness, which is lower than the original specification. Applications with specific brightness requirements may require design review to confirm acceptability.

Q: Why is PM3HCW12.0 classified as obsolete?

A: Product status reflects manufacturer production discontinuation. The active PM3HDW12.0 substitute maintains functional compatibility within the Bivar PM3 series.

Q: Are there compatibility considerations for panel mounting?

A: No. Both parts use identical 0.16" (4.06mm) round panel cutouts and standard panel mounting hardware.

Q: What environmental certifications does the substitute provide?

A: The PM3HDW12.0 is ROHS3 compliant, meeting current European Union and international environmental regulations for restricted substances.