SC16C550IB48,151 UART Interface IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SC16C550IB48,151 is a single-channel UART interface IC with 16-byte FIFO, manufactured by NXP USA Inc. in a 48-LQFP surface mount package. This component is classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for ongoing system support and new designs requiring compatible functionality.

The SC16C550IB48,151 provides asynchronous communication capabilities with integrated modem control, auto flow control, IrDA encoder/decoder, and false start bit detection. These features make it suitable for legacy serial communication applications requiring reliable data transmission at rates up to 3 Mbps across multiple supply voltage levels.

Substiute Parts

SC16C550IB48,151

NXP USA Inc.In Stock: 2026SC16C550IB48,151 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SC16C550BIB48,151

NXP SemiconductorsIn Stock: 1005SC16C550BIB48,151 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

ST16C550CQ48-F

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 5915ST16C550CQ48-F Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

ST16C550CQ48TR-F

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 2090ST16C550CQ48TR-F Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

ST16C550IQ48-F

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 15789ST16C550IQ48-F Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

ST16C550IQ48TR-F

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 872ST16C550IQ48TR-F Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

TL16C550DIPFB

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1295TL16C550DIPFB Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the SC16C550IB48,151 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Single UART channel configuration
• 16-byte FIFO buffer
• 48-pin surface mount package (LQFP or TQFP variants)
• Supply voltage compatibility within the range 2.5V to 5.5V
• Modem control and false start bit detection capability
• RoHS3 compliance

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Auto flow control support
• IrDA encoder/decoder functionality
• Data rate capability (minimum 1 Mbps)
• Moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1-3 acceptable for most applications)

Substitute parts are grouped into two categories based on package type and feature set:

Group 1: NXP/Semiconductor Variants (SC16C550BIB48,151) Maintains NXP manufacturing lineage with identical UART channel and FIFO configuration. Last Time Buy status indicates continued availability with planned discontinuation.

Group 2: MaxLinear ST16C550 Series (ST16C550CQ48-F, ST16C550CQ48TR-F, ST16C550IQ48-F, ST16C550IQ48TR-F) Active production status with 48-TQFP package. Maintains core UART and FIFO specifications with timer/counter features. Packaging options include Tray and Tape & Reel formats.

Group 3: Texas Instruments TL16C550DIPFB Active production alternative with 48-TQFP package. Includes auto flow control and maintains 16-byte FIFO with single UART channel. Lower maximum data rate (1 Mbps) compared to primary part.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Direct Replacement (Highest Compatibility): SC16C550BIB48,151 is the primary substitute, maintaining NXP manufacturing heritage and identical electrical specifications. This part is in Last Time Buy status, providing a transition path from the obsolete SC16C550IB48,151. Both parts support the full feature set including IrDA encoder/decoder and auto flow control.

For Active Production Alternatives: The MaxLinear ST16C550 series (ST16C550IQ48-F or ST16C550IQ48TR-F) offers active production status with the largest available inventory (15,712 and 785 units respectively). These parts maintain core UART and FIFO functionality with identical modem control and false start bit detection. The trade-off is reduced maximum data rate (1.5 Mbps versus 3 Mbps) and absence of IrDA encoder/decoder functionality. Packaging options include both Tray and Tape & Reel formats.

For Extended Supply Voltage Range: TL16C550DIPFB from Texas Instruments provides the widest supply voltage range (2.25V to 5.5V) and includes auto flow control. This part is suitable for applications requiring lower voltage operation. Maximum data rate is 1 Mbps, and IrDA functionality is not available.

Compliance Considerations: All substitute parts maintain RoHS3 compliance or equivalent RoHS certification. Moisture sensitivity levels vary from MSL 1 (SC16C550BIB48,151) to MSL 3 (MaxLinear variants). Applications requiring unlimited moisture exposure should prioritize SC16C550BIB48,151 or TL16C550DIPFB (MSL 2).

Inventory Availability: ST16C550IQ48-F provides the highest current inventory (15,712 units), followed by ST16C550CQ48-F (5,901 units). SC16C550BIB48,151 has 972 units available. TL16C550DIPFB has 1,255 units in stock.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can ST16C550 series parts directly replace SC16C550IB48,151 in existing designs?

A: ST16C550 series parts are functionally compatible for core UART operations. Both maintain single UART channel, 16-byte FIFO, modem control, and false start bit detection. However, the original part supports IrDA encoder/decoder and achieves 3 Mbps data rate, while ST16C550 variants do not include IrDA functionality and are limited to 1.5 Mbps. Designs relying on these specific features require SC16C550BIB48,151 instead.

Q: What is the difference between 48-LQFP and 48-TQFP packages?

A: Both packages are 48-pin surface mount with identical 7x7mm footprint dimensions. LQFP (Low Profile Quad Flat Package) and TQFP (Thin Quad Flat Package) have different lead frame geometries and solder joint profiles. PCB layout and reflow profiles may require adjustment when switching between these package types. Consult component datasheets for specific land pattern and thermal requirements.

Q: Are Tape & Reel (TR) packaged parts compatible with Tray packaged alternatives?

A: Tape & Reel and Tray packaging contain identical components with different presentation formats for automated assembly. Electrical and functional specifications are identical. Selection depends on manufacturing process requirements. Tape & Reel format is optimized for high-volume automated pick-and-place assembly, while Tray format is suitable for lower-volume or manual assembly operations.

Q: What does Last Time Buy status mean for SC16C550BIB48,151?

A: Last Time Buy indicates the manufacturer has announced planned discontinuation. Current inventory (972 units) represents the final production run. After available stock is depleted, the part will no longer be manufactured. For long-term production requirements, transition to active production alternatives such as ST16C550IQ48-F or TL16C550DIPFB.

Q: How do supply voltage ranges affect part selection?

A: SC16C550IB48,151 and SC16C550BIB48,151 support discrete voltage levels (2.5V, 3.3V, 5V). MaxLinear and Texas Instruments variants support continuous voltage ranges (2.97V to 5.5V and 2.25V to 5.5V respectively). Applications with fixed supply voltages within the discrete levels can use any substitute. Applications requiring operation across a voltage range should select parts with continuous range specifications.

Q: What is the significance of MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level) ratings?

A: MSL ratings define maximum storage time at specified humidity and temperature before component solderability is affected. MSL 1 (Unlimited) allows indefinite storage. MSL 2 (1 Year) and MSL 3 (168 Hours) require controlled storage conditions. For applications with extended component storage or high-humidity environments, SC16C550BIB48,151 (MSL 1) is preferred over MaxLinear variants (MSL 3).

Q: Can TL16C550DIPFB replace SC16C550IB48,151 in designs requiring auto flow control?

A: Yes. TL16C550DIPFB includes auto flow control functionality matching the original part. However, it lacks IrDA encoder/decoder support and is limited to 1 Mbps maximum data rate. Designs not requiring IrDA functionality and operating below 1 Mbps can use this substitute. The extended supply voltage range (2.25V to 5.5V) provides additional flexibility for low-voltage applications.