RNF14FTC38K3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The RNF14FTC38K3 is a 38.3 kOhms ±1% metal film axial through-hole resistor rated at 0.25W (1/4W) manufactured by Stackpole Electronics Inc. This component features flame retardant coating and safety-grade construction, designed for applications requiring precision resistance values with reliable performance across industrial temperature ranges. The part maintains Active product status with 1051 units in current inventory. Substitute parts are identified to address availability, extended power ratings, or enhanced environmental performance while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

RNF14FTC38K3

Stackpole Electronics IncIn Stock: 1137RNF14FTC38K3 Datasheet

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CMF5538K300FHEB

Vishay DaleIn Stock: 3477CMF5538K300FHEB Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the RNF14FTC38K3 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Requirements:

• Resistance value: 38.3 kOhms (exact match required)
• Tolerance: ±1% (exact match required)
• Composition: Metal Film (exact match required)
• Temperature Coefficient: ±50ppm/°C (exact match required)

Mechanical Compatibility Requirements:

• Package Type: Axial (exact match required)
• Number of Terminations: 2 (exact match required)

Regulatory & Environmental Requirements:

• RoHS3 Compliance (required)
• REACH Unaffected status (required)

Allowable Variations:

• Power Rating: May be equal or higher than 0.25W
• Operating Temperature Range: May be equal or extended
• Physical Dimensions: Minor variations acceptable within axial package constraints
• Packaging Format: Tape & Reel (TR) or Cut Tape (CT) formats are interchangeable for component selection

The CMF5538K300FHEB qualifies as a substitute because it maintains all critical electrical parameters, meets regulatory requirements, and offers enhanced power rating (0.5W vs. 0.25W) with extended operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 175°C vs. -55°C ~ 155°C).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the RNF14FTC38K3 and CMF5538K300FHEB maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, satisfying regulatory requirements for industrial and commercial applications. The CMF5538K300FHEB offers enhanced thermal performance with a maximum operating temperature of 175°C compared to 155°C, and provides doubled power dissipation capacity at 0.5W. The substitute includes moisture-resistant features in addition to flame retardant coating. Selection between these parts should be based on application thermal requirements, available inventory, and circuit design margins for power dissipation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the CMF5538K300FHEB replace the RNF14FTC38K3 in all applications?

A: Yes, provided the circuit design accommodates the higher power rating. The substitute maintains identical electrical specifications (resistance, tolerance, temperature coefficient) and meets all regulatory requirements. The increased power rating (0.5W vs. 0.25W) and extended operating temperature range represent enhancements that do not create compatibility issues in standard applications.

Q: Are there physical dimension differences between these parts?

A: Minor dimensional variations exist. The RNF14FTC38K3 measures 0.093" Dia x 0.250" L (2.35mm x 6.35mm), while the CMF5538K300FHEB measures 0.090" Dia x 0.240" L (2.29mm x 6.10mm). Both are axial package format. These differences are within standard axial resistor tolerances and do not affect PCB layout compatibility for typical through-hole applications.

Q: What is the difference between Tape & Reel and Cut Tape packaging?

A: Tape & Reel (TR) and Cut Tape (CT) are packaging formats for component delivery and automated assembly. Tape & Reel is supplied on continuous carrier tape suitable for high-volume pick-and-place equipment. Cut Tape is supplied as individual segments cut from the carrier tape, suitable for lower-volume applications or manual assembly. Both formats contain identical components; packaging selection depends on assembly process requirements, not component performance.

Q: Does the moisture-resistant feature of the CMF5538K300FHEB affect compatibility?

A: No. Moisture resistance is an additional protective feature that enhances reliability in humid environments. It does not create incompatibility with applications designed for the standard RNF14FTC38K3. This feature represents a performance enhancement.

Q: Are both parts suitable for high-temperature applications?

A: The CMF5538K300FHEB supports operation to 175°C, making it suitable for extended high-temperature applications. The RNF14FTC38K3 is rated to 155°C. For applications requiring sustained operation above 155°C, the CMF5538K300FHEB is the appropriate selection.