Panasonic PM-K24 Optical Sensor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Panasonic PM-K24 is an optical through-beam sensor module with NPN output configuration and selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON operation. This unamplified sensor features a 0.197" (5mm) sensing distance and is designed for slot-type mounting applications with wire leads. The PM-K24 is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for system maintenance, repair, and new design implementations where equivalent functionality is required.

Substiute Parts

PM-K24

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 856PM-K24 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM-K25

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1297PM-K25 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PM-K24 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Sensing Method: Through-beam optical detection
• Output Type: NPN open collector configuration
• Mounting Interface: Chassis mount with wire leads
• Package Form Factor: Module, slot-type construction
• Response Time: 20µs maximum
• Operating Temperature Range: -25°C ~ 55°C
• Regulatory Compliance: RoHS compliance and EAR99 classification

The PM-K25 qualifies as a substitute based on matching sensing method (through-beam), output configuration (NPN open collector), mounting type (chassis mount), package style (module with wire leads), response time (20µs), operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C), and regulatory classifications (RoHS3 compliant, EAR99). The primary difference is the increased sensing distance (0.236" / 6mm versus 0.197" / 5mm), which represents an expansion of functional capability rather than a limitation.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM-K25 is the designated substitute for the obsolete PM-K24 based on functional equivalence and regulatory compliance. The PM-K25 maintains active product status with Panasonic Industrial Automation Sales, ensuring continued availability and support. Both components meet RoHS compliance requirements (PM-K24: RoHS Compliant; PM-K25: RoHS3 Compliant) and share identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications, confirming regulatory alignment.

The PM-K25 provides equivalent through-beam optical sensing with NPN output, identical response time (20µs), and matching operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C). The increased sensing distance of the PM-K25 (0.236" / 6mm versus 0.197" / 5mm) represents enhanced detection capability and does not restrict application scope. Both components feature chassis mount construction with wire leads and unamplified signal processing.

Selection of the PM-K25 is appropriate for applications requiring direct replacement of the PM-K24, with the understanding that the extended sensing distance may provide improved performance in slot-type mounting configurations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PM-K25 directly replace the PM-K24 in existing applications?

A: The PM-K25 is functionally equivalent to the PM-K24 for through-beam optical sensing applications. Both components share identical response time (20µs), operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C), NPN output configuration, and chassis mount construction. The PM-K25 features a 0.236" (6mm) sensing distance compared to the PM-K24's 0.197" (5mm), which represents expanded detection range. Mechanical compatibility depends on the specific slot-type mounting interface of your application.

Q: What is the primary difference between the PM-K24 and PM-K25?

A: The primary difference is the sensing distance: PM-K24 operates at 0.197" (5mm), while PM-K25 operates at 0.236" (6mm). Both components use identical through-beam sensing methodology, NPN output configuration, and response time. The PM-K25 is currently in active production status, whereas the PM-K24 is obsolete.

Q: Are there compliance or regulatory differences between these components?

A: Both components comply with RoHS requirements and share identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8543.70.9860) classifications. The PM-K24 carries RoHS Compliant status, while the PM-K25 carries RoHS3 Compliant status, indicating updated compliance with current regulatory standards.

Q: What does "selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON" mean for the PM-K24?

A: This feature allows configuration of the sensor output logic: Dark-ON mode activates the output when the beam is blocked (dark condition), while Light-ON mode activates the output when the beam is unobstructed (light condition). The PM-K25 specifies NPN open collector output without explicit selectable logic notation in the provided specifications.

Q: Is the PM-K25 suitable for new design implementations?

A: Yes. The PM-K25 is classified as an active product with current inventory availability (1258 pcs in stock). It is appropriate for new designs requiring through-beam optical sensing with NPN output, 20µs response time, and -25°C ~ 55°C operating temperature range.