PM-L44P Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM-L44P 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 PM-L44P is currently listed as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain system functionality and ensure continued availability for maintenance, repair, and new installations where this sensing distance and output configuration are required.

Substiute Parts

PM-L44P

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 78795PM-L44P Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM-L45-P

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1144PM-L45-P Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PM-L44P is determined by the following critical parameters:

Sensing Method: Through-beam optical sensing is the fundamental operating principle. Substitute parts must maintain this detection method.

Output Configuration: The PNP output with selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON functionality defines the electrical interface. Substitute parts must provide compatible output types.

Sensing Distance: The 0.197" (5mm) slot width is a mechanical and optical specification. Substitute parts with different sensing distances may not fit the same mechanical slot or provide equivalent detection performance.

Response Time: The 20µs response time establishes the switching speed requirement for time-sensitive applications.

Operating Temperature Range: The -25°C ~ 55°C range defines the environmental operating envelope.

Mounting Type and Package: Chassis mount with module wire leads configuration determines physical integration compatibility.

Electrical Ratings: Current and voltage specifications (Ic Max 15 mA, If Max 50 mA, Vce Breakdown 30 V) establish the load-driving capability and circuit protection requirements.

The PM-L45-P is identified as a substitute based on shared sensing method (through-beam), compatible output configuration (PNP), identical response time (20µs), matching operating temperature range, and equivalent mounting and packaging approach. The primary difference is an increased sensing distance of 0.236" (6mm), which represents a different slot width specification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM-L44P is obsolete and no longer in active production. The PM-L45-P is the identified substitute part and is currently in active product status with 1084 units in stock.

Compliance Considerations: The PM-L44P carries RoHS Compliant certification. The PM-L45-P carries ROHS3 Compliant certification, representing a more current regulatory standard. Both parts maintain MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity rating, indicating no special moisture handling requirements during storage or assembly.

Electrical Compatibility: Both parts operate within the same temperature range (-25°C ~ 55°C) and share identical response time specifications at 20µs. The PM-L45-P supports dual response time options (20µs and 80µs), providing operational flexibility.

Mechanical Considerations: The primary difference between these parts is the sensing distance specification. The PM-L44P operates at 0.197" (5mm) slot width, while the PM-L45-P operates at 0.236" (6mm) slot width. This difference affects mechanical fit within the slot assembly and optical detection performance. Selection must account for the physical slot dimensions in the target application.

Output Configuration: The PM-L44P provides selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON output. The PM-L45-P provides PNP Open Collector output. These configurations are functionally compatible in most industrial control circuits, though the selectable feature of the PM-L44P is not replicated in the PM-L45-P.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PM-L45-P directly replace the PM-L44P in an existing assembly?

A: Direct mechanical replacement depends on the slot width specification of the target assembly. The PM-L44P is designed for 0.197" (5mm) slots, while the PM-L45-P is designed for 0.236" (6mm) slots. If the mechanical slot accommodates the 6mm width, electrical compatibility is established through shared through-beam sensing method, PNP output configuration, and identical 20µs response time. Physical fit must be verified before installation.

Q: What is the difference between the selectable Dark-ON/Light-ON output of the PM-L44P and the Open Collector output of the PM-L45-P?

A: The PM-L44P provides a selectable output mode, allowing configuration of the sensor response to light and dark conditions. The PM-L45-P provides a standard PNP Open Collector output. Both are PNP configurations suitable for industrial control circuits. The PM-L45-P does not offer the selectable mode feature, so application logic must accommodate the fixed output behavior of the substitute part.

Q: Are there any supply voltage differences between these parts?

A: The PM-L44P specifications do not include a supply voltage parameter in the provided data. The PM-L45-P operates at 5V ~ 24V supply voltage with 15 mA supply current. Verify that the application power supply matches the PM-L45-P requirements before substitution.

Q: What is the significance of the ROHS3 compliance on the PM-L45-P compared to RoHS compliance on the PM-L44P?

A: ROHS3 represents a more current version of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive, incorporating updated substance restrictions and testing requirements. Both certifications indicate compliance with hazardous substance limitations. ROHS3 compliance on the PM-L45-P reflects current regulatory standards and is suitable for new designs and procurement.

Q: Are both parts suitable for the same operating temperature range?

A: Yes. Both the PM-L44P and PM-L45-P operate across the identical temperature range of -25°C ~ 55°C. No thermal performance adjustment is required when substituting between these parts.

Q: What inventory status should influence the substitution decision?

A: The PM-L44P is listed as obsolete with 78768 units in stock. The PM-L45-P is in active product status with 1084 units in stock. For new designs and long-term applications, the PM-L45-P is the recommended choice due to active manufacturing status and ongoing availability. The PM-L44P inventory may support legacy system maintenance on a limited basis.