Equivalent & Substitute Parts for PM20-120K

Part Overview

The PM20-120K is a 12 µH unshielded molded inductor manufactured by Bourns Inc., rated for 140 mA with a maximum DC resistance of 2.8Ohm. This component is designed for surface mount applications in the 1210 (3225 Metric) package format. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing design support and production continuity.

Substiute Parts

PM20-120K

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 774PM20-120K Datasheet

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CM322522-120JL

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 887CM322522-120JL Datasheet

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CM322522-120KL

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 11161CM322522-120KL Datasheet

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1210-123J

API Delevan Inc.In Stock: 9861210-123J Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PM20-120K is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Inductance Value: Must be 12 µH (tolerance variations acceptable within design margin)
• Current Rating: Must meet or exceed 140 mA minimum requirement
• DC Resistance: Must not exceed 2.8Ohm maximum
• Core Material: Ferrite core required
• Shielding Configuration: Unshielded topology
• Package Footprint: 1210 (3225 Metric) surface mount package
• Operating Temperature: Must support -55°C ~ 125°C range or equivalent

Three substitute parts meet these electrical and mechanical criteria: CM322522-120JL, CM322522-120KL, and 1210-123J. All three maintain the 12 µH inductance specification, ferrite core construction, unshielded design, and surface mount configuration. Variations in current rating, DC resistance, tolerance, and product status are documented in the parameter comparison table below.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CM322522-120KL is the primary substitute for PM20-120K. Both parts are manufactured by Bourns Inc. and share identical inductance (12 µH), core material (ferrite), shielding (unshielded), and Q characteristics (30 @ 2.52MHz). The CM322522-120KL maintains ±10% tolerance matching the original specification. Current rating is reduced from 140 mA to 125 mA, and DC resistance improves from 2.8Ohm to 2.5Ohm maximum. The part is ROHS3 compliant and carries active product status with 11,088 units in stock. Operating temperature range is -40°C ~ 125°C, which covers the upper portion of the original -55°C ~ 125°C specification.

CM322522-120JL is a secondary substitute, offering tighter inductance tolerance (±5%) and identical electrical characteristics to CM322522-120KL. This part is also ROHS3 compliant and active, with 812 units available. The reduced current rating (125 mA) and narrower operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 125°C) apply equally to this variant.

1210-123J manufactured by API Delevan Inc. is a tertiary option. This part maintains the standard 1210 (3225 Metric) package format and supports the full -55°C ~ 125°C temperature range. Current rating is significantly higher at 272 mA, providing design margin. However, this part is RoHS non-compliant and carries a lower self-resonant frequency (28 MHz versus 33 MHz), which may affect high-frequency performance characteristics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CM322522-120KL replace PM20-120K in all applications?

A: CM322522-120KL meets the core electrical requirements: 12 µH inductance, ferrite core, unshielded configuration, and equivalent Q factor. Current rating is reduced from 140 mA to 125 mA. If your circuit operates at or below 125 mA, substitution is valid. Operating temperature range is -40°C ~ 125°C; if your application requires operation below -40°C, the original -55°C ~ 125°C specification cannot be maintained.

Q: What is the difference between CM322522-120JL and CM322522-120KL?

A: Both parts are electrically equivalent with identical inductance, current rating, DC resistance, and Q characteristics. The primary difference is inductance tolerance: CM322522-120JL specifies ±5% while CM322522-120KL specifies ±10%. If tighter tolerance is required, CM322522-120JL is the appropriate selection.

Q: Why is 1210-123J listed as a substitute if it has lower self-resonant frequency?

A: 1210-123J meets the fundamental substitution criteria: 12 µH inductance, ferrite core, unshielded design, and 1210 package format. The 28 MHz self-resonant frequency (versus 33 MHz for PM20-120K) represents a measurable difference that may impact performance in high-frequency applications. Selection of 1210-123J requires confirmation that the lower self-resonant frequency does not degrade circuit performance.

Q: Are the Bourns CM322522 parts available in standard 1210 package format?

A: CM322522-120JL and CM322522-120KL are specified as nonstandard package format. Physical dimensions (0.126" L x 0.098" W, 3.20mm x 2.50mm) and height (0.087" max, 2.20mm) match the 1210 footprint, but the package designation is nonstandard. Verify PCB layout compatibility before design implementation.

Q: What compliance considerations apply to substitute selection?

A: PM20-120K is RoHS non-compliant. CM322522-120JL and CM322522-120KL are ROHS3 compliant, supporting modern regulatory requirements. 1210-123J is RoHS non-compliant. If RoHS compliance is mandatory for your application, Bourns CM322522 series parts are required.