PM3604-68-B-RC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM3604-68-B-RC is an unshielded 2-coil inductor array manufactured by Bourns Inc. as part of the PM3600 series. This component provides dual inductance configurations: 68 µH when coils are connected in parallel and 272 µH when connected in series. The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitutes necessary for ongoing design support and production continuity.

Substiute Parts

PM3604-68-B-RC

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1005PM3604-68-B-RC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM3604-68-RC

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 977PM3604-68-RC Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the PM3604-68-B-RC is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Dual-coil inductor array configuration with identical inductance values in both parallel (68 µH) and series (272 µH) modes
• Matching current ratings for both parallel (1.19 A) and series (600 mA) configurations
• Identical DC resistance specifications for parallel (140 mOhm Max) and series (560 mOhm Max) paths
• Tolerance specification 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 PM3604-68-RC qualifies as a direct substitute based on identical electrical and mechanical specifications. The primary distinction is packaging format and product status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM3604-68-RC is the qualified substitute for the obsolete PM3604-68-B-RC. Both parts are manufactured by Bourns Inc. within the PM3600 series and maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters.

The primary advantage of selecting PM3604-68-RC is its active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support. Both parts carry ROHS3 compliance and MSL Level 1 certification, meeting regulatory and environmental requirements.

The packaging difference—bulk format for the main part versus Tape & Reel format for the substitute—reflects standard industry practices for active versus obsolete product lines. Tape & Reel packaging is standard for production environments and automated assembly processes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can PM3604-68-RC be used as a direct replacement for PM3604-68-B-RC?

A: Yes. Both parts are electrically and mechanically identical. The PM3604-68-RC is the active production equivalent with identical inductance values (68 µH parallel, 272 µH series), current ratings, DC resistance specifications, and physical dimensions.

Q: What is the difference between the two part numbers?

A: The primary difference is product status and packaging format. PM3604-68-B-RC is obsolete and supplied in bulk packaging. PM3604-68-RC is an active product supplied in Tape & Reel format. All electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns when substituting PM3604-68-RC for PM3604-68-B-RC?

A: No compatibility concerns exist. The parts are pin-compatible, footprint-compatible, and electrically equivalent. Tape & Reel packaging is compatible with standard automated assembly equipment.

Q: Do both parts meet the same compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both PM3604-68-B-RC and PM3604-68-RC are ROHS3 compliant and carry MSL Level 1 certification. Compliance requirements are identical.

Q: What inductance values does this component provide?

A: The PM3604-68-B-RC provides 68 µH inductance when coils are connected in parallel and 272 µH inductance when connected in series. The substitute part provides identical inductance values.