PM5RC LED Panel Indicator Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM5RC is a red LED panel indicator manufactured by Bivar Inc., designed for panel-mount applications with wire termination. This component features a clear lens with a 700nm peak wavelength and 2mcd brightness rating. The PM5RC is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications. Substitute parts must maintain electrical compatibility while accommodating differences in lens characteristics and product availability.

Substiute Parts

PM5RC
Bivar Inc.In Stock: 1142PM5RC Datasheet
PM5RC
Current Part
PM5RD
Bivar Inc.In Stock: 1447PM5RD Datasheet
PM5RD
Similar

Key Parameters

Parameter Value Specification Type
Lamp Color Red Optical
Wavelength - Peak 700nm Optical
Voltage (Vf Typ) 2.1V Electrical
Current (If Max) 20mA Electrical
Millicandela Rating 2mcd Optical
Lens Size 5mm, T-1 3/4 Mechanical
Panel Cutout Dimensions 0.25" (6.35mm) Mechanical
Panel Cutout Shape Round Mechanical
Lens Style Round with Domed Top Mechanical

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PM5RC is determined by strict alignment with the following critical parameters:

Electrical Parameters (Non-negotiable):

  • Forward voltage (Vf): 2.1V
  • Maximum current (If): 20mA
  • Peak wavelength: 700nm

Mechanical Parameters (Non-negotiable):

  • Lens size: 5mm, T-1 3/4
  • Panel cutout shape: Round
  • Panel cutout dimensions: 0.25" (6.35mm)
  • Lens style: Round with Domed Top

Optical Parameters (Substitution-dependent):

  • Millicandela rating: 2mcd
  • Lens color and transparency: May vary between clear and diffused
  • Viewing angle: May vary within acceptable operational ranges

The PM5RD qualifies as a substitute for the PM5RC based on matching electrical and mechanical specifications. The primary differences are lens transparency (diffused versus clear) and viewing angle (45° versus 35°), which represent acceptable variations for panel indicator applications.

Parameter Comparison

Parameter PM5RC (Main Part) PM5RD (Substitute) Match Status
Manufacturer Bivar Inc. Bivar Inc. Identical
Series PM5 PM5 Identical
Type LED LED Identical
Lamp Color Red Red Identical
Wavelength - Peak 700nm 700nm Identical
Voltage (Vf Typ) 2.1V 2.1V Identical
Current (If Max) 20mA 20mA Identical
Millicandela Rating 2mcd 2mcd Identical
Lens Size 5mm, T-1 3/4 5mm, T-1 3/4 Identical
Panel Cutout Shape Round Round Identical
Panel Cutout Dimensions 0.25" (6.35mm) 0.25" (6.35mm) Identical
Lens Style Round with Domed Top Round with Domed Top Identical
Lens Color Colorless Red Different
Lens Transparency Clear Diffused Different
Viewing Angle 35° 45° Different
Product Status Obsolete Active Different
Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1 (Unlimited) 1 (Unlimited) Identical
ECCN EAR99 EAR99 Identical
HTSUS 8541.41.0000 8541.41.0000 Identical

Engineering Selection Recommendations

PM5RD as Substitute for PM5RC:

The PM5RD is a direct electrical and mechanical substitute for the obsolete PM5RC. Both components share identical forward voltage (2.1V), maximum current (20mA), peak wavelength (700nm), and physical dimensions. The PM5RD is currently in active production status with full inventory availability (1402 pcs), addressing the obsolescence of the PM5RC (1099 pcs remaining stock).

Differences and Operational Impact:

The PM5RD incorporates a diffused red lens compared to the PM5RC's clear colorless lens. This change increases the viewing angle from 35° to 45°, providing broader light distribution. The diffused lens also produces a more uniform appearance across the viewing range. These optical differences do not affect electrical circuit compatibility or panel mounting characteristics.

Compliance Status:

Both components maintain identical Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) classification of 1 (Unlimited), ECCN designation (EAR99), and HTSUS code (8541.41.0000). The PM5RD carries ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, confirming regulatory alignment for current manufacturing standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PM5RD replace PM5RC in existing circuit designs?

A: Yes. The PM5RD maintains identical electrical specifications (2.1V forward voltage, 20mA maximum current) and mechanical dimensions (5mm lens, 0.25" panel cutout). No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the functional difference between the clear lens (PM5RC) and diffused lens (PM5RD)?

A: The PM5RC features a clear colorless lens with a 35° viewing angle, producing a concentrated light beam. The PM5RD features a diffused red lens with a 45° viewing angle, distributing light more uniformly across a wider area. Both deliver 2mcd brightness at 700nm wavelength.

Q: Does the wider viewing angle of PM5RD affect panel indicator visibility?

A: The increased viewing angle (45° versus 35°) expands the range from which the indicator is visible. This represents an operational improvement for panel-mounted applications where visibility from multiple angles is beneficial.

Q: Are packaging differences between PM5RC and PM5RD significant?

A: The PM5RC is supplied in standard packaging, while PM5RD is supplied in Tray packaging. Both are suitable for automated assembly and manual installation. Tray packaging facilitates high-volume production workflows.

Q: Why is PM5RC classified as obsolete?

A: The PM5RC is no longer in active production. The PM5RD serves as the current production equivalent, offering improved optical characteristics and full regulatory compliance with modern manufacturing standards.

Q: Are there any environmental or regulatory restrictions on using PM5RD as a substitute?

A: No. Both components share identical MSL (1 - Unlimited), ECCN (EAR99), and HTSUS (8541.41.0000) classifications. The PM5RD additionally carries ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, confirming suitability for current regulatory environments.

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