PM3RCW12.0 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM3RCW12.0 is a panel-mounted LED indicator manufactured by Bivar Inc., featuring a red clear lens with 30° viewing angle and 12-inch wire leads. This component is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing design requirements and procurement needs. The substitute part maintains core electrical and mechanical compatibility while offering improved product availability and active manufacturing status.

Substiute Parts

PM3RCW12.0

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 788PM3RCW12.0 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM3RDW12.0

Bivar Inc.In Stock: 2033PM3RDW12.0 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The PM3RDW12.0 qualifies as a direct substitute for the PM3RCW12.0 based on the following allowed parameters:

Matching Parameters (Substitution Basis):

• Identical lamp color: Red
• Identical forward voltage: 2.1V
• Identical maximum current: 20mA
• Identical lens size: 3mm, T-1
• Identical panel cutout shape and dimensions: Round, 0.16" (4.06mm)
• Identical termination style: Wire Leads - 12" (304.80mm)
• Identical wavelength peak: 700nm
• Identical lens style: Round with Domed Top
• Identical MSL rating: 1 (Unlimited)

Differing Parameters (Non-Critical Variations):

• Lens transparency: Clear (PM3RCW12.0) versus Diffused (PM3RDW12.0)
• Lens color: Colorless (PM3RCW12.0) versus Red (PM3RDW12.0)
• Viewing angle: 30° (PM3RCW12.0) versus 40° (PM3RDW12.0)
• Millicandela rating: 2.5mcd (PM3RCW12.0) versus 2mcd (PM3RDW12.0)
• Product status: Obsolete (PM3RCW12.0) versus Active (PM3RDW12.0)

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM3RDW12.0 serves as the active production equivalent for the obsolete PM3RCW12.0. Selection of the substitute part is based on the following engineering criteria:

Electrical Compatibility: Both parts operate at identical forward voltage (2.1V) and maximum current (20mA), ensuring direct circuit compatibility without modification to drive circuitry or current-limiting resistor calculations.

Mechanical Compatibility: Identical panel cutout dimensions (0.16" / 4.06mm round), lens size (3mm T-1), and wire lead length (12" / 304.80mm) ensure direct mechanical interchangeability in existing panel assemblies and PCB layouts.

Optical Characteristics: The PM3RDW12.0 exhibits a wider viewing angle (40° versus 30°) and diffused lens transparency compared to the clear lens of the PM3RCW12.0. The diffused lens reduces peak brightness (2mcd versus 2.5mcd) but provides more uniform light distribution across the expanded viewing angle.

Compliance and Availability: The PM3RDW12.0 maintains identical environmental classification (MSL 1), export control designation (EAR99), and tariff classification (HTSUS 8541.41.0000). Active product status ensures ongoing availability and supply chain continuity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PM3RDW12.0 replace PM3RCW12.0 in existing designs without circuit modification?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical electrical ratings (2.1V forward voltage, 20mA maximum current), panel cutout dimensions (0.16" round), and wire lead specifications (12" length). No changes to drive circuitry, resistor values, or mechanical mounting are required.

Q: What is the functional difference between the clear lens (PM3RCW12.0) and diffused lens (PM3RDW12.0)?

A: The PM3RCW12.0 features a clear colorless lens with 30° viewing angle and 2.5mcd brightness. The PM3RDW12.0 features a red diffused lens with 40° viewing angle and 2mcd brightness. The diffused lens provides wider light distribution at the cost of reduced peak intensity.

Q: Are there any compliance or regulatory differences between these parts?

A: No. Both parts carry identical environmental classification (MSL 1 - Unlimited), export control designation (EAR99), and tariff classification (HTSUS 8541.41.0000).

Q: Why is PM3RCW12.0 listed as obsolete?

A: The PM3RCW12.0 is no longer in active production. The PM3RDW12.0 represents the current production equivalent within the PM3 series, offering the same electrical and mechanical specifications with improved availability.

Q: Will the wider viewing angle of PM3RDW12.0 affect my application?

A: The 40° viewing angle of PM3RDW12.0 is broader than the 30° angle of PM3RCW12.0. Applications requiring a narrower viewing angle should evaluate whether the expanded light distribution is acceptable for the intended use case.

Q: Are packaging differences between these parts significant?

A: PM3RCW12.0 is listed with no specified packaging, while PM3RDW12.0 is supplied in bag packaging. This difference does not affect electrical or mechanical performance and relates only to procurement and storage considerations.