Anyone have TSL1401R-LF chips they don't need?

Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)

Well, this worked for Tracy, maybe it'll work for me. Like Tracy, I've found the aftermarket dealers to be blood-sucking scoundrels -- although he stated it more politely.

Anyway, I need up to 22 ea. AMS/TAOS TSL1401R-LF linear array sensor chips to use in the rest of some partially-assembled TSL1401-DB modules. These are the lead-free 8-pin DIP versions that have been EOL'd for awhile now.

I already have new-design modules in stock that use the SMD version of the chip, but it would be nice not to let any of the older boards go to waste.

Thanks,
-Phil

Duane Degn

I'll give this thread a bump and let you know I for one don't have any TSL1401R-LF chips.

I checked my parts from some linear arrays and I found two TSL3301 LF chips but of course these aren't quite the same.

Good luck with your search.

Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)

Thanks, Duane! It's not a huge issue -- just trying to minimize waste where I can.

Today I was informed by Mouser that the surface-mount version of the chip, the TSL1401CL, that I've designed into the new version is "not recommended for new designs." This is usually a precursor to an EOL. I've already purchased 500 of them, which are now soldered onto the new modules. But I have another 500 bare PCBs without chips to populate them, and the chips are not cheap. Not sure what to do. I've put a query into AMS's support line regarding future availability. If I have to, I'll buy another 500 right now; but, geez! this is starting to get expensive. Nonetheless, I'm committed to the product and will do whatever I have to to keep it in the pipeline.

-Phil

Buck Rogers

I'll add my two counters.

What Mouser says about parts needs to be verified by the part maker, in this case AMS.

Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)

Already did that and, yes, the part is destined for EOL. When is anyone's guess. The part that probably "replaces" it is actually an older, even skinnier, ball-grid SMD part. It has a "difficult-to-handle" reputation, which is why I chose not to use it.

-Phil