PM3700-20 Common Mode Choke Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM3700-20 is a 500 µH Common Mode Choke (CMC) manufactured by Bourns Inc., designed for 2-line surface mount applications with a 6A current rating and 10mOhm maximum DC resistance. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitutes essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications. The PM3700-20 operates across a temperature range of -55°C to 125°C and is packaged in a horizontal 4-pad configuration with 0.850" × 0.850" (21.60mm × 21.60mm) footprint dimensions.

Substiute Parts

PM3700-20

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 922PM3700-20 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM3700-20-RC

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1616PM3700-20-RC Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PM3700-20 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Inductance value: 500 µH @ 1 kHz
• Number of lines: 2-line configuration
• Current rating: 6A maximum
• DC resistance: 10mOhm maximum
• Mounting type: Surface mount
• Physical footprint: 0.850" × 0.850" (21.60mm × 21.60mm)
• Package configuration: Horizontal, 4 PC Pad
• Operating temperature range: -55°C to 125°C

The PM3700-20-RC meets all these parameters and is classified as a parametric equivalent. The primary distinction between the main part and its substitute is packaging format and product status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM3700-20-RC is the direct substitute for the obsolete PM3700-20. Both components share identical electrical and mechanical specifications, ensuring functional interchangeability in circuit applications. The primary advantages of selecting PM3700-20-RC are:

• Active product status with confirmed ongoing availability
• ROHS3 compliance, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements
• Tape & Reel packaging format suitable for automated assembly processes
• Higher inventory levels supporting production continuity

Selection of PM3700-20-RC eliminates obsolescence risk while maintaining full electrical and mechanical compatibility with existing designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are PM3700-20 and PM3700-20-RC electrically identical?

A: Yes. Both components have identical inductance (500 µH @ 1 kHz), current rating (6A), DC resistance (10mOhm), and operating temperature range (-55°C to 125°C). They are parametric equivalents.

Q: What is the difference between PM3700-20 and PM3700-20-RC?

A: The primary differences are packaging format (standard vs. Tape & Reel), product status (obsolete vs. active), and RoHS compliance (non-compliant vs. ROHS3 compliant). Electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Can PM3700-20-RC be used as a direct replacement in existing designs?

A: Yes. The PM3700-20-RC maintains the same physical footprint (0.850" × 0.850" × 0.450" max height), package configuration (Horizontal, 4 PC Pad), and all electrical parameters. No circuit modifications are required.

Q: Why is the PM3700-20 classified as obsolete?

A: Obsolescence status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued production. The PM3700-20-RC represents the active equivalent within the same product series.

Q: Does packaging format affect circuit performance?

A: No. Tape & Reel (TR) packaging is a supply format for automated assembly. The component itself is identical to standard packaging. TR format improves handling efficiency in high-volume manufacturing environments.

Q: Is RoHS3 compliance required for my application?

A: RoHS3 compliance is mandatory for products sold in the European Union and many other markets. PM3700-20-RC meets this requirement, while PM3700-20 does not. Verify regulatory requirements for your specific application and market.