RN-270M Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The RN-270M is an RF Transceiver module manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for Bluetooth 2.1 +EDR Class 1 wireless communication applications. This adapter features RS-232 (DB9) serial interface connectivity with a 100-meter operating range and operates across the 2.4GHz frequency band. The product is currently classified as Obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally compatible alternatives for ongoing system support and new designs requiring equivalent Bluetooth transceiver capabilities.

Substiute Parts

RN-270M

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 748RN-270M Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

RN4678-V/RM122

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1149RN4678-V/RM122 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The RN4678-V/RM122 qualifies as a substitute based on the following alignment criteria:

Common Functional Parameters:

• Manufacturer: Both manufactured by Microchip Technology
• Frequency Band: Both operate at 2.4GHz
• Bluetooth Protocol Family: Both are Bluetooth transceiver modules
• RoHS Compliance: Both meet ROHS3 requirements
• Moisture Sensitivity: Both rated MSL 1 (Unlimited)
• ECCN Classification: Identical (5A992C)

Substitution Basis: The RN4678-V/RM122 represents an active-status successor within the Microchip Bluetooth transceiver product line, offering enhanced protocol support (Bluetooth v5.0) while maintaining core 2.4GHz frequency operation and regulatory compliance alignment with the obsolete RN-270M.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The RN4678-V/RM122 is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete RN-270M. Selection of this alternative is supported by:

• Active Product Status: The RN4678-V/RM122 maintains current manufacturing and support status, ensuring long-term component availability and supply chain continuity.
• Regulatory Alignment: Both components share identical ECCN classification and ROHS3 compliance, maintaining regulatory requirements for equivalent applications.
• Manufacturer Continuity: Both components originate from Microchip Technology, ensuring design consistency and technical support continuity.
• Protocol Advancement: The RN4678-V/RM122 implements Bluetooth v5.0, providing enhanced performance characteristics including improved sensitivity (-92dBm vs. -70dBm) and higher data throughput (1Mbps vs. 234kBaud).

Design integration requires evaluation of interface compatibility, as the RN-270M provides RS-232 (DB9) serial connectivity while the RN4678-V/RM122 utilizes UART serial interface with Surface Mount packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the RN4678-V/RM122 directly replace the RN-270M in existing designs?

A: Both components operate at 2.4GHz and implement Bluetooth protocols within the Microchip product family. However, interface differences exist: the RN-270M provides RS-232 (DB9) connectivity while the RN4678-V/RM122 uses UART interface with Surface Mount packaging. System integration requires interface adaptation.

Q: What are the key differences in electrical performance?

A: The RN4678-V/RM122 provides superior sensitivity (-92dBm vs. -70dBm) and higher data rate capability (1Mbps vs. 234kBaud). Power output differs (1.5dBm vs. 15dBm), and supply voltage ranges are narrower (3.3V ~ 4.2V vs. 4V ~ 11V).

Q: Are both components RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both the RN-270M and RN4678-V/RM122 meet ROHS3 compliance requirements and share identical MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity ratings.

Q: What is the packaging difference?

A: The RN-270M is supplied in standard packaging with DB9 connector interface. The RN4678-V/RM122 is a 33-SMD Module in Tray packaging, designed for surface mount assembly.

Q: Why is the RN-270M classified as Obsolete?

A: The RN-270M has reached end-of-life status within Microchip's product portfolio. The RN4678-V/RM122 represents the active successor offering enhanced Bluetooth protocol support and improved performance characteristics.