PM3604-50-B-RC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM3604-50-B-RC is an unshielded 2-coil inductor array manufactured by Bourns Inc., part of the PM3600 series. This component provides dual inductance configurations: 50 µH when coils are connected in parallel and 200 µH when connected in series. The part is classified as obsolete, which necessitates identification of equivalent alternatives for ongoing design support and procurement.

Substiute Parts

PM3604-50-B-RC

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1148PM3604-50-B-RC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM3604-50-RC

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1455PM3604-50-RC Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PM3604-50-B-RC is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Dual-coil inductor array configuration with identical inductance values in both parallel (50 µH) and series (200 µH) modes
• Matching current ratings: 1.28 A parallel, 640 mA series
• Identical DC resistance specifications: 120 mOhm max parallel, 480 mOhm max series
• Tolerance of ±20%
• Unshielded construction
• Operating temperature range of -55°C to 125°C
• Surface mount technology with nonstandard package dimensions (0.550" L x 0.452" W x 0.265" H)
• ROHS3 compliance and MSL Level 1 rating

The PM3604-50-RC qualifies as a direct substitute based on identical electrical and mechanical specifications. The primary distinction is packaging format: the main part uses bulk packaging, while the substitute is supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) format.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM3604-50-RC is a direct electrical and mechanical equivalent to the PM3604-50-B-RC. Selection between these parts should be based on the following factors:

Product Status: The main part PM3604-50-B-RC is classified as obsolete. The substitute PM3604-50-RC maintains active product status, ensuring continued manufacturer support, availability, and compliance updates.

Compliance Certifications: Both parts maintain identical ROHS3 compliance and MSL Level 1 ratings, confirming equivalent environmental and regulatory standing.

Packaging Consideration: The primary difference is packaging format. The PM3604-50-RC is supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) format, which is standard for automated assembly processes. Organizations using manual assembly or requiring bulk quantities may need to evaluate reel-to-bulk conversion options through the manufacturer or authorized distributors.

Functional Equivalence: All electrical parameters, mechanical dimensions, and thermal specifications are identical, confirming direct substitution capability in circuit designs without modification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PM3604-50-RC be used as a direct replacement for PM3604-50-B-RC in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts are electrically and mechanically identical across all specified parameters, including inductance values, current ratings, DC resistance, operating temperature range, and physical dimensions. The substitute is suitable for direct PCB placement without design modification.

Q: What is the difference between the bulk packaging (-B-) and Tape & Reel (-RC) formats?

A: The PM3604-50-B-RC uses bulk packaging, while the PM3604-50-RC is supplied on tape and reel. Tape & Reel format is optimized for automated pick-and-place assembly. Bulk format is typically used for manual assembly or lower-volume applications. The components themselves are identical.

Q: Why is the main part marked as obsolete?

A: Product obsolescence indicates that the manufacturer has discontinued active production and support for the PM3604-50-B-RC. The PM3604-50-RC remains in active production status, ensuring ongoing availability and compliance maintenance.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences between these parts?

A: No. Both parts maintain identical ROHS3 compliance, MSL Level 1 rating, and all other regulatory certifications. There are no compliance-related restrictions on substitution.

Q: What are the key electrical parameters that define substitution eligibility?

A: Substitution is based on matching: dual-coil configuration, 50 µH parallel inductance, 200 µH series inductance, 1.28 A parallel current rating, 640 mA series current rating, 120 mOhm max parallel DCR, 480 mOhm max series DCR, ±20% tolerance, and -55°C to 125°C operating temperature range.

Q: Can the PM3604-50-RC be converted from Tape & Reel to bulk format?

A: Tape & Reel components can be manually removed and repackaged, but this process is labor-intensive and typically not cost-effective for small quantities. Contact authorized Bourns distributors for bulk packaging options or reel-to-bulk conversion services.