PCF2131
Epson alternative: RX8901CE
You want to replace the PCF2131 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 PCA2131.
Features of the PCF2131: integrated TCXO and crystal, up to four time-stamp registers, two interrupt outputs, watchdog, backup switchover; the PCA2131 is qualified to AEC-Q100 grade 2.
PCF2131 versus RX8901CE
| PCF2131 — NXP | RX8901CE — Epson | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | NXP | Epson (Seiko Epson) |
| Status | Active series type | Active series type |
| Interface | I²C or SPI (selectable) | I²C |
| Crystal integrated | yes | yes, factory calibrated |
| Standby current | on request | 240 nA typ. · 1500 nA max. |
| Accuracy | TCXO compensated | ±3.0 ppm over −40 … +85 °C (DTCXO) |
| Temperature compensation | yes (DTCXO/TCXO) | yes (DTCXO) |
| Supply | on request | 1.6–5.5 V · timekeeping down to 1.1 V |
| Max. temperature | +105 °C (PCA2131, clock up to +125 °C) | −40 … +105 °C |
| Package | SO16 and smaller versions | 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
- Two separate interrupt outputs
- Clock operation up to +125 °C on the PCA version
The difference
- Four time stamps against 32 on the RX8901CE
- At ±3.0 ppm over −40 … +85 °C and 240 nA the RX8901CE sits very low
- For +125 °C in full operation Epson's RA8000CE is the direct answer — AEC-Q100 and DTCXO up to +125 °C
- Considerably smaller footprint area on the Epson CE
Frequently asked questions
What is the Epson alternative to the PCF2131?
The closest match is the RX8901CE, with the RX4901CE 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.
Who supplies an alternative to the PCF2131 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 PCF2131.
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.