PM-L44P-C3 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PM-L44P-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 PM-L44P-C3 is classified as obsolete. Locating equivalent or substitute components is necessary to maintain system functionality in applications where this sensor is currently deployed or where design flexibility is required for new installations.

Substiute Parts

PM-L44P-C3

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1125PM-L44P-C3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

PM-L45-P-C3

Panasonic Industrial Automation SalesIn Stock: 1107PM-L45-P-C3 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PM-L44P-C3 is evaluated based on the following critical parameters:

• Sensing Method: Through-beam operation must be maintained
• Sensing Distance: Optical path length compatibility (0.197" nominal)
• Output Configuration: NPN output type and switching logic
• Response Time: Signal processing speed (20µs)
• Operating Temperature Range: -25°C ~ 55°C
• Mounting Type: Chassis mount compatibility
• Package Format: Module with wire leads
• Compliance: RoHS and ECCN classification alignment

The PM-L45-P-C3 is identified as a substitute part within the Panasonic PM series optical sensor family. While this substitute maintains through-beam sensing methodology and compatible environmental specifications, differences in sensing distance, output configuration, and response time characteristics must be evaluated against specific application requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The PM-L45-P-C3 is an active product with current manufacturing support, whereas the PM-L44P-C3 is obsolete. Both sensors maintain RoHS compliance and identical ECCN classification, supporting regulatory continuity in applications requiring export control adherence.

Key differences requiring evaluation:

• Sensing Distance: The PM-L45-P-C3 operates at 0.236" (6mm) versus 0.197" (5mm) for the PM-L44P-C3. Applications with fixed optical path geometry must accommodate this 1mm increase.
• Output Configuration: The PM-L45-P-C3 provides PNP output with open collector topology, differing from the NPN selectable configuration of the PM-L44P-C3. Circuit-level signal conditioning and load resistor requirements will differ.
• Response Time Options: The PM-L45-P-C3 offers dual response time specifications (20µs and 80µs), providing flexibility for timing-critical applications.

Selection of the PM-L45-P-C3 as a substitute is appropriate for applications where output configuration compatibility can be accommodated through circuit redesign and where the increased sensing distance does not conflict with mechanical constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the PM-L45-P-C3 directly replace the PM-L44P-C3 without circuit modification?

A: No. The PM-L45-P-C3 uses PNP output configuration versus the NPN output of the PM-L44P-C3. Load resistor networks and signal conditioning circuits must be redesigned to accommodate the different output topology.

Q: What is the impact of the 1mm difference in sensing distance?

A: The PM-L45-P-C3 sensing distance of 0.236" (6mm) versus the PM-L44P-C3 at 0.197" (5mm) requires verification that optical path geometry and component spacing in the application can accommodate the extended distance. Physical slot width and beam alignment must be confirmed.

Q: Are both sensors RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The PM-L44P-C3 is RoHS Compliant, and the PM-L45-P-C3 is ROHS3 Compliant. Both meet current environmental compliance requirements.

Q: What is the difference between the response time options on the PM-L45-P-C3?

A: The PM-L45-P-C3 offers 20µs and 80µs response time specifications. The 20µs option matches the PM-L44P-C3 response time for timing-sensitive applications, while the 80µs option provides flexibility for less demanding switching scenarios.

Q: Is the PM-L45-P-C3 currently available?

A: Yes. The PM-L45-P-C3 is classified as Active product status with current manufacturing support, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete PM-L44P-C3.

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

A: Yes. Both the PM-L44P-C3 and PM-L45-P-C3 operate across -25°C ~ 55°C, maintaining thermal compatibility for equivalent environmental applications.