VLMKE3401-GS18 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The VLMKE3401-GS18 is a dual-color surface mount LED indicator manufactured by Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division. This 4-SMD, J-Lead component integrates red and yellow LEDs in a single package with independent control, operating at 1.9V (red) and 2V (yellow) with a 20mA test current. The part is Active status and ROHS3 compliant. Substitute parts are identified to address inventory availability, lead time requirements, or specific performance characteristics while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility within the VLM.3 series.

Substiute Parts

VLMKE3401-GS18

Vishay Semiconductor Opto DivisionIn Stock: 938VLMKE3401-GS18 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

VLMKE3400-GS08

Vishay Semiconductor Opto DivisionIn Stock: 4474VLMKE3400-GS08 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

VLMKE3401-GS08

Vishay Semiconductor Opto DivisionIn Stock: 7338VLMKE3401-GS08 Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the VLMKE3401-GS18 is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Package / Case: 4-SMD, J-Lead
• Supplier Device Package: 4-PLCC
• Color Configuration: Red, Yellow (Independent)
• Wavelength - Dominant: 630nm Red, 588nm Yellow
• Wavelength - Peak: 643nm Red, 590nm Yellow
• Voltage - Forward (Vf) Typical: 1.9V Red, 2V Yellow
• Current - Test: 20mA Red, 20mA Yellow
• Viewing Angle: 120°
• Lens Style: Round with Flat Top
• Lens Size: 2.40mm Dia
• Lens Transparency: Clear
• Size / Dimension: 3.00mm L x 2.80mm W
• Height (Max): 1.85mm
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Series: VLM.3
• Product Status: Active
• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant
• REACH Status: REACH Unaffected

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• Millicandela Rating: Substitutes may have higher brightness ratings
• Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL): Substitutes may have lower MSL values (more favorable storage conditions)

The identified substitutes maintain full electrical and mechanical compatibility while offering alternative inventory positions and, in some cases, enhanced luminous intensity characteristics.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

VLMKE3401-GS08 (Parametric Equivalent)

This part maintains identical electrical and optical specifications to the VLMKE3401-GS18, including millicandela ratings, forward voltage, and wavelength characteristics. Both parts share the same base product number (VLMKE3401) and MSL rating. Selection of this substitute is appropriate when inventory availability of the GS18 variant is constrained. The GS08 variant offers significantly higher stock availability (7228 units) while preserving all functional and compliance characteristics.

VLMKE3400-GS08 (Direct Manufacturer Substitute)

This part is manufactured by Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division and maintains all mandatory electrical, optical, and mechanical parameters. The VLMKE3400-GS08 offers enhanced luminous intensity (118mcd Red, 185mcd Yellow versus 106mcd Red, 168mcd Yellow) and improved moisture sensitivity rating (MSL 2A versus MSL 4). Selection of this substitute is appropriate when higher brightness output is acceptable or when superior moisture protection during storage and handling is required. This part is Active status and ROHS3 compliant.

Both substitutes are suitable for direct replacement in applications where the VLMKE3401-GS18 is specified, provided that the allowable variations in brightness and moisture sensitivity do not conflict with application requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can VLMKE3401-GS08 be used as a direct replacement for VLMKE3401-GS18?

A: Yes. The VLMKE3401-GS08 is a parametric equivalent with identical electrical specifications, optical wavelengths, forward voltage, test current, viewing angle, and physical dimensions. The only difference is the packaging variant designation (GS08 versus GS18), which does not affect functional performance in the circuit.

Q: What is the difference between VLMKE3401-GS08 and VLMKE3400-GS08?

A: Both parts are compatible substitutes for the VLMKE3401-GS18. The primary differences are: (1) VLMKE3400-GS08 has higher millicandela ratings (118mcd Red, 185mcd Yellow versus 106mcd Red, 168mcd Yellow), and (2) VLMKE3400-GS08 has a lower MSL rating (2A versus 4), indicating better moisture resistance during storage. The base product numbers differ (VLMKE3400 versus VLMKE3401), but all other electrical and mechanical parameters are identical.

Q: Are all three parts in the same package?

A: Yes. All three parts use the 4-SMD, J-Lead package with 4-PLCC supplier device package designation. Physical dimensions are identical: 3.00mm L x 2.80mm W x 1.85mm H (max). They are mechanically interchangeable on PCBs designed for the VLMKE3401-GS18.

Q: What does MSL rating mean, and why does it differ between substitutes?

A: Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) indicates the maximum time a component can be exposed to ambient conditions (typically 30°C / 85% RH) before soldering. VLMKE3401-GS18 and VLMKE3401-GS08 have MSL 4 (72 hours), while VLMKE3400-GS08 has MSL 2A (4 weeks). Lower MSL values provide longer shelf life and greater tolerance to moisture exposure before assembly.

Q: Are all substitutes ROHS3 compliant?

A: Yes. VLMKE3401-GS18, VLMKE3401-GS08, and VLMKE3400-GS08 are all ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected.

Q: Can I use VLMKE3400-GS08 if my application requires the exact brightness of the original part?

A: No. VLMKE3400-GS08 has higher brightness ratings (118mcd Red, 185mcd Yellow) compared to the original VLMKE3401-GS18 (106mcd Red, 168mcd Yellow). If your circuit design or application requires the specific brightness of the original part, use VLMKE3401-GS08 instead, which has identical millicandela ratings.

Q: Which substitute should I select for maximum inventory availability?

A: VLMKE3401-GS08 offers the highest stock availability at 7228 units, compared to 858 units for VLMKE3401-GS18 and 4450 units for VLMKE3400-GS08.