WRL-13678 WiFi Transceiver Module Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The WRL-13678 is an obsolete WiFi 802.11b/g/n transceiver module manufactured by SparkFun Electronics. This through-hole mounted RF module integrates a trace antenna and operates in the 2.4GHz to 2.48GHz frequency band with an ESP8266 IC. Due to its obsolete product status, identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary for ongoing design support, legacy system maintenance, and component procurement continuity.

Substiute Parts

WRL-13678

SparkFun ElectronicsIn Stock: 765WRL-13678 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

2999

Adafruit Industries LLCIn Stock: 11922999 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the WRL-13678 is determined by the following core parameters:

• RF Family/Standard: WiFi 802.11b/g/n protocol support
• Frequency Range: 2.4GHz band operation
• Data Rate: 72.2Mbps minimum capability
• Power Output: 19.5dBm RF transmission power
• Sensitivity: -98dBm receiver sensitivity
• Antenna Type: Integrated trace antenna configuration
• Serial Interfaces: UART communication capability
• Voltage Supply: Compatible supply voltage range
• Mounting Type: Physical form factor compatibility
• Operating Temperature: Functional temperature range
• RoHS Compliance: Environmental regulatory alignment

The substitute part identified (Adafruit Industries LLC model 2999) meets the core RF performance criteria and protocol requirements. However, differences exist in mounting type (surface mount versus through hole), memory capacity, supply voltage range, and utilized IC architecture. These differences require engineering evaluation for specific application contexts.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Adafruit Industries LLC model 2999 qualifies as a functional substitute based on matching RF performance parameters (protocol, data rate, power output, and sensitivity). Both parts maintain RoHS compliance and support integrated trace antenna configurations.

Selection between the main part and substitute requires consideration of the following factors:

• Mounting Type: The WRL-13678 uses through-hole mounting; the 2999 uses surface-mount technology. PCB layout and assembly process compatibility must be evaluated.
• Utilized IC Architecture: The WRL-13678 uses ESP8266; the 2999 uses CYWUSB6934. Firmware compatibility and driver support differ between architectures.
• Memory Capacity: The 2999 provides 4MB Flash versus 1MB in the WRL-13678, offering increased application storage capacity.
• Supply Voltage Range: The 2999 accepts 2.7V to 3.6V; the WRL-13678 requires 3.3V fixed. The 2999 provides broader voltage tolerance.
• Operating Temperature: The WRL-13678 operates to 100°C maximum; the 2999 operates to 85°C maximum. High-temperature applications may require the original part.
• Product Status: The 2999 is active production; the WRL-13678 is obsolete. Long-term availability favors the substitute.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Adafruit 2999 directly replace the WRL-13678 in existing designs?

A: Direct replacement depends on PCB design. The 2999 is surface-mount while the WRL-13678 is through-hole. If the original design uses through-hole footprints, mechanical adaptation or PCB redesign is required. Firmware compatibility must be evaluated due to different IC architectures (ESP8266 versus CYWUSB6934).

Q: What are the key differences in RF performance?

A: Both parts deliver identical data rate (72.2Mbps), power output (19.5dBm), and sensitivity (-98dBm). The WRL-13678 specifies 2.4GHz to 2.48GHz; the 2999 specifies 2.4GHz. Both support 802.11b/g/n protocol.

Q: Are there supply voltage compatibility concerns?

A: The WRL-13678 requires 3.3V fixed supply. The 2999 accepts 2.7V to 3.6V. If your design uses 3.3V regulation, both parts are compatible. The 2999 offers broader tolerance for voltage variation.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: The Adafruit 2999 is recommended for new designs due to active product status, broader supply voltage range, increased memory capacity, and extended availability. The WRL-13678 is obsolete and procurement is limited.

Q: What are the current consumption differences?

A: Receiving current is comparable (62mA versus 58mA). Transmitting current differs significantly: WRL-13678 draws 215mA; the 2999 draws 294mA. Power supply design must accommodate the higher transmit current of the substitute.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The WRL-13678 is RoHS Compliant. The 2999 is ROHS3 Compliant. Both meet environmental regulatory requirements.