PCF2129
Epson alternative: RX8900CE
You want to replace the PCF2129 from NXP — as a second source, because of availability, or because a new design is coming up. Here the type is set against the closest Epson type feature by feature, with the points that speak for and against the change.
Also listed as PCA2129.
Features of the PCF2129: integrated TCXO and 32.768 kHz crystal, backup switchover, watchdog, time stamp.
PCF2129 versus RX8900CE
| PCF2129 — NXP | RX8900CE — Epson | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | NXP | Epson (Seiko Epson) |
| Status | Discontinued | Active series type |
| Interface | I²C or SPI (selectable) | I²C |
| Crystal integrated | yes | yes, factory calibrated |
| Standby current | on request | 700 nA typ. · 1400 nA max. |
| Accuracy | TCXO compensated | ±3.4 ppm over −40 … +85 °C (DTCXO) |
| Temperature compensation | yes (DTCXO/TCXO) | yes (DTCXO) |
| Supply | on request | 2.5–5.5 V · timekeeping from 1.6 V |
| Max. temperature | +85 °C | −40 … +85 °C |
| Package | SO16 · SO20 | CE · 3.2 × 2.5 × 1.0 mm |
What speaks for and against the change
We sell Epson — and we still say where the competitor is better. You would notice it at the first datasheet comparison anyway.
Honestly
- I²C and SPI selectable in the same device
- Watchdog function
The difference
- End of life at NXP — a change is due anyway
- SO16/SO20 package against 3.2 × 2.5 × 1.0 mm for the Epson CE: a multiple of the board area
- The RX8804CE holds ±3.4 ppm over −40 … +105 °C, the RX8900CE ±3.4 ppm over −40 … +85 °C
Frequently asked questions
What is the Epson alternative to the PCF2129?
The closest match is the RX8900CE, with the RX8804CE as a second option. It is not a drop-in replacement: package, pinout and register map differ, so layout and firmware have to be adapted. What you get in return is set out in the comparison on this page.
Is the PCF2129 discontinued?
NXP lists the PCF2129 as end of life and not recommended for new designs.
Who supplies an alternative to the PCF2129 in Europe?
Timing Devices Europe in Ladenburg near Heidelberg, Germany stocks the complete Epson RTC programme in its own warehouse — physically on site, not at the manufacturer. Samples, comparison and series demand in one go, answered the same working day.
Samples and a comparison for the PCF2129.
Tell us which version you use today, together with quantity and date. We will put together the Epson equivalent with its datasheet and the migration effort — from our own warehouse in Ladenburg near Heidelberg, Germany.