GX-4SB Inductive Proximity Sensor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The GX-4SB is an inductive proximity sensor manufactured by Panasonic Industrial Automation Sales, designed for non-contact detection in industrial automation applications. This sensor features a 0.6mm sensing distance, NPN-NC output configuration, and operates across a 12V to 24V supply range with IP67 ingress protection in a cylindrical stainless steel housing.

The GX-4SB is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain system continuity, ensure component availability for maintenance and replacement, and support long-term production requirements where original inventory becomes depleted.

Substiute Parts

GX-4SB

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 982GX-4SB Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

GX-304S-B-N

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 814GX-304S-B-N Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the GX-4SB is based on the following critical parameters that define functional equivalence:

Core Compatibility Criteria:

• Sensor Type: Inductive (maintained)
• Output Type: NPN-NC, 3-Wire (maintained)
• Shielding: Shielded (maintained)
• Material - Body: Stainless Steel (maintained)
• Termination Style: Cable Leads (maintained)
• Package / Case: Cylinder (maintained)
• Ingress Protection: IP67 (maintained)
• Indicator: LED (maintained)

Allowable Parameter Variations:

• Sensing Distance: Substitute may differ (0.6mm vs. 0.84mm acceptable for applications with adjusted mounting)
• Voltage - Supply: Substitute range must encompass or exceed the original range (12V ~ 24V); GX-304S-B-N provides 10V ~ 30V, which is compatible
• Response Frequency: Substitute may exceed original specification (1kHz vs. 4kHz acceptable; higher frequency provides equal or improved performance)
• Operating Temperature: Must match or exceed original range (-25°C ~ 70°C maintained)

The GX-304S-B-N meets all core compatibility criteria and allowable parameter variations, qualifying it as a direct substitute for the obsolete GX-4SB.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The GX-304S-B-N is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete GX-4SB. Selection is supported by the following factors:

Product Status: The GX-4SB is obsolete; the GX-304S-B-N is active and currently in production, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.

Regulatory Compliance: Both sensors are RoHS compliant. The GX-304S-B-N carries ROHS3 certification, representing current regulatory standards and enhanced environmental compliance.

Functional Equivalence: The GX-304S-B-N maintains all critical electrical and mechanical parameters required for direct substitution in NPN-NC inductive proximity sensing applications.

Performance Enhancement: The GX-304S-B-N provides a higher response frequency (4kHz vs. 1kHz) and extended voltage supply range (10V ~ 30V vs. 12V ~ 24V), offering improved performance margins without compromising compatibility.

Sensing Distance Consideration: The GX-304S-B-N has a slightly larger sensing distance (0.84mm vs. 0.6mm). Applications requiring the original 0.6mm distance specification must account for this variation through mechanical mounting adjustment or system recalibration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the GX-304S-B-N directly replace the GX-4SB without any modifications?

A: The GX-304S-B-N is electrically and mechanically compatible with the GX-4SB for NPN-NC inductive proximity sensing applications. However, the increased sensing distance (0.84mm vs. 0.6mm) may require adjustment of the sensor mounting position to maintain the same detection range. Verify that the application tolerates this sensing distance variation before installation.

Q: What is the difference in sensing distance between these two sensors?

A: The GX-4SB has a sensing distance of 0.6mm, while the GX-304S-B-N has a sensing distance of 0.84mm. This 0.24mm difference may be accommodated through mechanical adjustment of the sensor position relative to the target object. Applications with strict distance requirements should evaluate this parameter during integration.

Q: Are the voltage supply ranges compatible?

A: Yes. The GX-4SB operates at 12V ~ 24V, and the GX-304S-B-N operates at 10V ~ 30V. The substitute part's extended voltage range encompasses the original specification, ensuring compatibility with existing power supply configurations.

Q: What is the difference in response frequency?

A: The GX-4SB has a response frequency of 1kHz, while the GX-304S-B-N has a response frequency of 4kHz. The higher frequency of the substitute part provides faster detection response and is compatible with applications designed for the original 1kHz specification.

Q: Are both sensors suitable for the same environmental conditions?

A: Yes. Both sensors operate across the same temperature range (-25°C ~ 70°C), maintain IP67 ingress protection, and feature stainless steel cylindrical housings. They are suitable for equivalent environmental applications.

Q: What is the packaging difference?

A: The GX-4SB is supplied in standard packaging, while the GX-304S-B-N is supplied in a box. This is a logistical difference only and does not affect functional compatibility or performance.

Q: Why is the GX-304S-B-N recommended over other potential substitutes?

A: The GX-304S-B-N is the manufacturer-recommended substitute, is currently in active production, carries current RoHS3 compliance certification, and maintains all critical electrical and mechanical parameters required for direct substitution in the GX-4SB application.