PM20-180K Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM20-180K is a 18 µH unshielded molded inductor manufactured by Bourns Inc., rated for 120 mA with a maximum DC resistance of 3.6Ohm. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable equivalent parts essential for ongoing design support and production continuity. The part operates across a temperature range of -55°C to 125°C and is packaged in the 1210 (3225 Metric) surface mount format.

Substiute Parts

PM20-180K

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1250PM20-180K Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CM322522-180JL

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 922CM322522-180JL Datasheet

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CM322522-180KL

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 7941CM322522-180KL Datasheet

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1210-183J

API Delevan Inc.In Stock: 7791210-183J Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PM20-180K is determined by the following critical parameters: inductance value (18 µH), core material (ferrite), shielding type (unshielded), and surface mount package compatibility. The current rating and DC resistance must meet or exceed the original specification to ensure functional equivalence in the target application.

Two direct manufacturer equivalents from Bourns Inc. (CM322522-180JL and CM322522-180KL) maintain the same inductance and core material with comparable electrical characteristics. The API Delevan Inc. part 1210-183J provides an alternative from a different manufacturer with identical inductance and package format, though with enhanced current rating capability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For applications requiring direct replacement of the PM20-180K with active product status and regulatory compliance, CM322522-180KL is the primary choice. This part maintains Bourns Inc. manufacturing continuity, matches the ±10% tolerance specification, and achieves ROHS3 compliance. The nonstandard package format requires mechanical validation against PCB layout constraints.

CM322522-180JL offers improved tolerance (±5%) and ROHS3 compliance but operates at a reduced current rating of 110 mA, making it suitable only for applications where the 120 mA specification can be relaxed.

The 1210-183J from API Delevan Inc. provides the advantage of standard 1210 package compatibility and significantly higher current rating (237 mA), supporting designs with future current margin requirements. However, this part does not achieve RoHS compliance and operates within a narrower low-temperature range (-40°C minimum versus -55°C).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CM322522-180JL replace PM20-180K in all applications? A: CM322522-180JL is electrically compatible for inductance and DC resistance but operates at 110 mA versus the original 120 mA rating. Substitution is valid only if the application current requirement does not exceed 110 mA.

Q: What is the significance of the nonstandard package designation for CM322522 parts? A: The CM322522 series uses a drum core, wirewound construction with physical dimensions matching the 1210 footprint (0.126" L x 0.098" W, 3.20mm x 2.50mm). The "nonstandard" designation refers to the construction type rather than PCB compatibility. Mechanical fit should be verified against the original component placement.

Q: Is the 1210-183J suitable for low-temperature applications? A: The 1210-183J operates from -40°C minimum, which is 15°C higher than the PM20-180K specification of -55°C. Applications requiring operation below -40°C must use CM322522 alternatives or the original PM20-180K if available.

Q: What are the RoHS compliance implications? A: CM322522-180JL and CM322522-180KL achieve ROHS3 compliance, meeting current environmental regulations. The 1210-183J remains non-compliant. For new designs or regulated applications, Bourns CM322522 series parts are required.

Q: How do tolerance differences affect circuit performance? A: CM322522-180JL provides ±5% tolerance versus the original ±10%, resulting in tighter inductance control. This improves circuit predictability but does not prevent substitution in applications designed for ±10% tolerance.