PM-K24-C3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM-K24-C3 is an optical sensor module manufactured by Panasonic Industrial Automation Sales, designed for through-beam sensing applications with a 0.197" (5mm) sensing distance. This NPN-output sensor features selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON operation and is housed in a slot-type module with wire leads for chassis mounting. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute parts essential for system maintenance and component sourcing.

Substiute Parts

PM-K24-C3

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1031PM-K24-C3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM-K25-C3

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 874PM-K25-C3 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The PM-K25-C3 qualifies as a substitute for the PM-K24-C3 based on the following critical parameters:

Matching Parameters:

• Sensing method: Through-Beam
• Output configuration: NPN - Open Collector (compatible with NPN applications)
• Mounting type: Chassis Mount
• Package type: Module with Wire Leads
• Response time: 20µs (identical)
• Operating temperature range: -25°C ~ 55°C (identical)
• RoHS compliance: Both compliant (PM-K24-C3: RoHS Compliant; PM-K25-C3: ROHS3 Compliant)

Differing Parameters:

• Sensing distance: PM-K25-C3 operates at 0.236" (6mm) versus PM-K24-C3 at 0.197" (5mm)
• Current - Collector: PM-K25-C3 specifies 15 mA supply current; PM-K24-C3 specifies 15 mA collector current maximum
• Voltage - Supply: PM-K25-C3 operates at 5V ~ 24V; PM-K24-C3 specifies 30V collector-emitter breakdown voltage
• Output selectability: PM-K24-C3 offers Dark-ON/Light-ON selectable operation; PM-K25-C3 is fixed NPN - Open Collector

The PM-K25-C3 is an active product, providing long-term availability and supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete PM-K24-C3.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM-K25-C3 is the designated substitute for the obsolete PM-K24-C3. Both sensors maintain identical response time (20µs) and operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C), ensuring functional compatibility in timing-critical applications. Both products comply with RoHS standards, with the PM-K25-C3 meeting the more recent ROHS3 specification.

The primary design consideration is the increased sensing distance of the PM-K25-C3 (0.236" / 6mm versus 0.197" / 5mm). Applications requiring the shorter sensing distance of the original PM-K24-C3 must evaluate whether the extended range of the PM-K25-C3 is acceptable within the system's mechanical and optical constraints.

The PM-K25-C3 offers fixed NPN - Open Collector output, whereas the PM-K24-C3 provided selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON operation. Circuit designs dependent on the selectable output mode must be reviewed and potentially modified to accommodate the fixed output configuration of the substitute.

The active product status of the PM-K25-C3 ensures ongoing availability and supply chain support, eliminating obsolescence risk associated with the PM-K24-C3.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PM-K25-C3 directly replace the PM-K24-C3 in existing designs?

A: Direct replacement is possible if the application tolerates the increased sensing distance (6mm versus 5mm) and the fixed NPN - Open Collector output configuration. Circuit modifications may be required if the original design relied on the Dark-ON/Light-ON selectable output mode of the PM-K24-C3.

Q: What is the impact of the different sensing distances?

A: The PM-K25-C3 operates at 0.236" (6mm) compared to the PM-K24-C3 at 0.197" (5mm). This 1mm difference affects the maximum gap between the emitter and receiver in through-beam applications. Mechanical slot width and optical alignment must be verified for compatibility.

Q: Are both sensors electrically compatible?

A: Both sensors share identical response time (20µs), operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C), and NPN output topology. The PM-K25-C3 operates at 5V ~ 24V supply voltage, while the PM-K24-C3 specifies a 30V collector-emitter breakdown voltage. Verify that the system supply voltage falls within the PM-K25-C3 operating range.

Q: What is the difference in output configuration?

A: The PM-K24-C3 provides selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON operation, allowing configuration of the output state based on light presence. The PM-K25-C3 is fixed as NPN - Open Collector. Applications requiring output mode selection must implement external logic or select an alternative sensor with selectable output capability.

Q: Are both products RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The PM-K24-C3 is RoHS Compliant, and the PM-K25-C3 is ROHS3 Compliant. Both meet environmental and hazardous substance restrictions for electronic components.

Q: Why is the PM-K24-C3 obsolete?

A: The PM-K24-C3 has been discontinued by Panasonic Industrial Automation Sales. The PM-K25-C3 represents the active product line continuation for through-beam optical sensing in this form factor and performance class.