PM-F44P Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM-F44P is an optical sensor manufactured by Panasonic Industrial Automation Sales, designed as a through-beam slot-type module with PNP output configuration and selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON functionality. This component operates at a 0.197" (5mm) sensing distance and is classified as an unamplified optical sensor for industrial automation applications. The product status is obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for system maintenance and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

PM-F44P

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 895PM-F44P Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM-F45-P

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1282PM-F45-P Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution compatibility for the PM-F44P is determined by the following critical parameters:

Sensing method (through-beam configuration), output type (PNP), mounting interface (chassis mount), package format (module with wire leads), and operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C). The PM-F45-P qualifies as a substitute based on matching these core functional and mechanical criteria. Both components operate as through-beam optical sensors with PNP output configuration, identical mounting type, compatible package format, and overlapping temperature specifications. The primary difference is the sensing distance: PM-F44P operates at 0.197" (5mm) while PM-F45-P operates at 0.236" (6mm). This variance is within acceptable tolerance for slot-type sensor applications where the gap dimension can accommodate the increased sensing distance. Both components maintain compliance with RoHS and MSL standards, and both are classified under the same HTSUS and ECCN codes.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM-F45-P is the designated substitute for the obsolete PM-F44P. Selection is based on the following engineering criteria:

Both components share identical sensing methodology (through-beam), output type (PNP), mounting configuration (chassis mount), and operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C). The PM-F45-P maintains full compliance with current RoHS3 standards and MSL Level 1 specifications, ensuring regulatory alignment for new designs and system replacements. The PM-F45-P holds active product status, guaranteeing continued availability and manufacturer support, whereas the PM-F44P is obsolete and subject to supply discontinuation.

The sensing distance differential (0.197" versus 0.236") is the primary technical distinction. This 0.039" (approximately 1mm) increase in sensing range is compatible with standard slot-type mounting applications where the mechanical gap can accommodate the extended distance. The PM-F45-P response time specification includes both 20µs and 80µs options, providing flexibility for timing-critical applications while maintaining the 20µs performance level of the original component.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PM-F45-P directly replace the PM-F44P in existing installations?

A: Direct mechanical and electrical replacement is feasible for most applications. The PM-F45-P maintains identical mounting type (chassis mount), package format (module with wire leads), and PNP output configuration. Verify that the slot gap dimension in your mechanical assembly can accommodate the 0.236" (6mm) sensing distance of the PM-F45-P, compared to the 0.197" (5mm) of the original PM-F44P.

Q: What is the significance of the sensing distance difference?

A: The PM-F45-P operates at 0.236" (6mm) sensing distance versus the PM-F44P at 0.197" (5mm). This represents a 0.039" increase in the gap between the emitter and receiver. For slot-type sensor applications, this difference is typically accommodated within standard mechanical tolerances. Confirm that your slot width can support this extended distance without performance degradation.

Q: Are there output configuration differences between these components?

A: The PM-F44P features selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON functionality within its PNP output configuration, while the PM-F45-P provides PNP Open Collector output. Both are PNP-type outputs suitable for industrial control circuits. The selectable mode feature of the PM-F44P may require circuit redesign if this functionality is critical to your application.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the PM-F45-P?

A: The PM-F45-P is ROHS3 compliant and maintains MSL Level 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity rating. Both components share identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8543.70.9860) classifications, ensuring consistent regulatory treatment for procurement and export purposes.

Q: Is the PM-F45-P available in the same packaging as the PM-F44P?

A: Both components are supplied as modules with wire leads in chassis mount configuration. The PM-F45-P is available in bulk packaging, while the PM-F44P was supplied in standard packaging. Packaging format does not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility for component selection purposes.