Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division TLHK4900

Overview

TLHK4900 from Vishay Semiconductors is a high-intensity red AlInGaP LED in a standard ∅3 mm clear T-1 package, delivering luminous intensity ≥40 mcd at 10 mA, with dominant wavelength 630 nm, forward voltage 1.9–2.6 V at 20 mA, and ±16° viewing angle-designed for status indication and legend lighting where directional brightness and visual uniformity are critical.

For engineers reviewing the TLHK4900 datasheet, TLHK4900 pinout, TLHK4900 application, or TLHK4900 equivalent, key selection considerations include its narrow beam angle, categorized luminous intensity grading, Pb-free construction, DC/high-peak-current capability, and thermal resistance of 400 K/W under ambient conditions up to +100 °C.

Technical Context

The TLHK4900 employs AlInGaP-on-GaAs heterostructure technology to achieve high radiance in the red spectrum (630 nm dominant, 643 nm peak), optimized for low-to-moderate drive currents (10–20 mA) and stable output across -40 to +100 °C ambient range. Its ±16° half-intensity angle enables focused illumination without secondary optics.

Thermal design is constrained by a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 400 K/W and maximum junction temperature of 100 °C; power dissipation is limited to 80 mW at ≤60 °C ambient, with surge current rating of 0.1 A for ≤10 μs pulses-supporting brief overdrive for visibility enhancement.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Standard ∅3 mm T-1 clear plastic package with axial leads: anode (longer lead) and cathode (shorter lead, flat side on package body). No internal circuitry-two-terminal passive device.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar red LED indicator applications.

Compared with TLHR4900 and SML-P111UTT86, the TLHK4900 offers the highest DC current rating (30 mA) in a through-hole ∅3 mm package, making it optimal for legacy panel designs needing robust overdrive headroom and mechanical stability without retooling.

Availability

TLHK4900 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for status lights, OFF/ON indicators, and legend lighting requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturing continuity, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for TLHK4900 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Vishay Semiconductors is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and passive components, specializing in high-reliability optoelectronics, power MOSFETs, and precision resistors for industrial and automotive markets.

The TLHK4900 belongs to Vishay's standard ∅3 mm high-intensity LED product series, engineered specifically for applications demanding visual clarity, color consistency, and mechanical robustness in panel-mounted indicator roles.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous forward current for TLHK4900?

The TLHK4900 has a maximum DC forward current of 30 mA when ambient temperature is ≤60 °C. Above this temperature, derating applies per Figure 2 in the datasheet. Exceeding 30 mA continuously risks accelerated lumen depreciation and thermal runaway. The TLHK4900 must be operated within this limit to ensure rated lifetime and luminous output stability.

Does TLHK4900 require current-limiting resistors in series?

Yes, the TLHK4900 requires an external current-limiting resistor when driven from a fixed-voltage source. With a forward voltage range of 1.9–2.6 V at 20 mA, the resistor value must be calculated based on supply voltage and desired operating current (e.g., 10–20 mA). Without proper limiting, the TLHK4900 may exceed its 30 mA absolute maximum rating and suffer irreversible damage.

What does "luminous intensity categorized" mean for TLHK4900?

"Luminous intensity categorized" means each TLHK4900 packing unit is binned by measured IV value at 10 mA, ensuring IVmin/IVmax ≤ 0.5 within the unit. This guarantees visual uniformity across multiple TLHK4900 devices used together-critical for front-panel indicators where mismatched brightness would degrade user interface quality.

Can TLHK4900 be used in outdoor applications?

The TLHK4900 is rated for operating temperatures from -40 to +100 °C and features a clear epoxy lens, but it lacks IP-rated encapsulation or UV-stabilized housing. While functional in sheltered outdoor enclosures, it is not designed for direct exposure to rain, dust, or prolonged UV radiation. For such environments, consider purpose-built outdoor-rated LEDs instead of the TLHK4900.

Is TLHK4900 compatible with lead-free soldering processes?

Yes, the TLHK4900 supports lead-free reflow and hand-soldering with a maximum soldering temperature of 260 °C for ≤5 seconds at 2 mm from the package body. Its Pb-free construction complies with RoHS, and the specified thermal profile ensures no degradation of optical performance or mechanical integrity when processed per J-STD-020 guidelines.