FT-41 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The FT-41 is a through-beam optical sensor manufactured by Panasonic Industrial Automation Sales, part of the FX-500 series. This component features a 1.1mm sensing distance with a 2-meter cable connection and is classified as obsolete. Due to its obsolete status, identifying equivalent substitute parts is essential for system maintenance, repair, and component sourcing in applications requiring through-beam optical sensing functionality.

Substiute Parts

FT-41

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 666FT-41 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FT-42

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1212FT-42 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The FT-42 qualifies as a substitute for the FT-41 based on the following critical parameters:

• Sensing Method: Both components utilize through-beam optical sensing technology
• Series Compatibility: Both belong to the Panasonic FX-500 series
• Connection Method: Both use cable-based connections
• Cable Length: Both feature 2-meter cable lengths
• Sensing Distance: The FT-42 provides a marginally increased sensing distance of 1.13mm compared to the FT-41's 1.1mm, representing a 2.7% increase within acceptable tolerance for through-beam sensor applications
• Regulatory Compliance: Both maintain RoHS compliance and share identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications

The FT-42 is currently in active production status, making it a viable replacement for the obsolete FT-41 in equivalent applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The FT-42 is the appropriate substitute for the obsolete FT-41 based on the following factors:

• Product Status Alignment: The FT-42 maintains active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete FT-41
• Regulatory Compliance: The FT-42 meets ROHS3 compliance, representing an updated regulatory standard relative to the FT-41's RoHS compliance designation
• Functional Equivalence: Both sensors operate within the FX-500 series framework with identical sensing methodology and connection specifications
• Sensing Distance Variance: The 2.7% increase in sensing distance (1.1mm to 1.13mm) falls within acceptable operational parameters for through-beam optical sensor applications and does not introduce functional incompatibility

Selection of the FT-42 eliminates obsolescence risk while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility with existing FT-41 installations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the FT-42 directly replace the FT-41 in existing installations?

A: Yes. Both sensors share identical connection methods, cable lengths, and sensing methodology within the FX-500 series. The marginal increase in sensing distance does not compromise functional compatibility.

Q: What is the significance of the sensing distance difference between FT-41 and FT-42?

A: The FT-42 provides a sensing distance of 1.13mm compared to the FT-41's 1.1mm, representing a 2.7% increase. This minor variance remains within acceptable tolerance for through-beam optical sensor applications and does not introduce operational incompatibility.

Q: Why is the FT-41 listed as obsolete?

A: The FT-41 has reached end-of-life status in Panasonic's product portfolio. The FT-42 represents the active equivalent within the FX-500 series, ensuring continued availability and support.

Q: Are there packaging differences between FT-41 and FT-42?

A: The FT-41 packaging specification is not provided. The FT-42 is supplied in box packaging. Verify packaging requirements for your specific application needs.

Q: Do both sensors meet current regulatory standards?

A: The FT-41 meets RoHS compliance. The FT-42 meets the updated ROHS3 compliance standard. Both share identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8541.49.8000) classifications, ensuring regulatory alignment for international applications.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for these sensors?

A: Both the FT-41 and FT-42 carry an MSL rating of 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions for storage or handling.