Molex 0349618342 Rectangular Connector Header - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0349618342 is a rectangular connector header designed for through-hole, right-angle board-to-cable/wire applications with 34 positions across 3 rows. This component features shrouded 4-wall construction with solder termination and latch lock fastening, commonly used in automotive applications. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

0349618342

MolexIn Stock: 9740349618342 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0349618345

MolexIn Stock: 9650349618345 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The Molex 0349618345 qualifies as a direct substitute for the 0349618342 based on the following critical parameters that determine functional compatibility:

Matching Parameters:

• Connector Type: Header (with breakaway capability in substitute)
• Contact Type: Male Blade
• Number of Positions: 34
• Number of Rows: 3
• Mounting Type: Through Hole, Right Angle
• Shrouding: Shrouded - 4 Wall
• Termination: Solder
• Insulation Material: Syndiotactic Polystyrene (SPS), Glass Filled
• Insulation Height: 0.654" (16.61mm)
• Contact Length - Post: 0.108" (2.75mm)
• Contact Finish: Tin
• Insulation Color: Gray
• Series: Mini50 34961
• Base Product Number: 034961

Differing Parameters:

• Pitch - Mating: 0.079" (2.00mm) specified in substitute only
• Contact Length - Mating: 0.215" (5.45mm) specified in substitute only
• Contact Shape: Rectangular (main) vs. Rectangular, Square (substitute)
• Contact Material: Copper Alloy (main) vs. Brass (substitute)
• Fastening Type: Latch Lock (main) vs. Latch Holder (substitute)
• Operating Temperature: Not specified (main) vs. -40°C ~ 105°C (substitute)
• Voltage Rating: Not specified (main) vs. 14VDC (substitute)
• Material Flammability Rating: Not specified (main) vs. UL94 HB (substitute)
• Product Status: Obsolete (main) vs. Active (substitute)

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Molex 0349618345 is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete 0349618342. Both components share the same base product number (034961) and belong to the Mini50 34961 series, confirming design family compatibility.

The substitute part offers active product status, ensuring ongoing availability and manufacturing support. The 0349618345 provides specified operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 105°C), voltage rating (14VDC), and material flammability certification (UL94 HB), which are critical for automotive applications. Both parts maintain identical mechanical dimensions, insulation specifications, and solder termination characteristics.

The contact material difference (Copper Alloy to Brass) and fastening type variation (Latch Lock to Latch Holder) are within acceptable substitution parameters for this connector family. Both components carry identical export classification (EAR99) and tariff codes (8536.69.4040).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 0349618345 directly replace the 0349618342 in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both components share identical position count (34), row configuration (3), mounting orientation (through-hole right-angle), shrouding design (4-wall), and solder termination. The mechanical envelope and PCB footprint are compatible.

Q: What is the significance of the pitch specification in the substitute part?

A: The 0349618345 specifies a mating pitch of 0.079" (2.00mm), which defines the center-to-center spacing between contact positions. This parameter is essential for mating connector design and PCB layout verification.

Q: How do the contact material differences affect performance?

A: The main part uses Copper Alloy contacts while the substitute uses Brass contacts. Both materials provide adequate electrical conductivity and tin plating for solder joint reliability in automotive applications. The material change does not affect functional compatibility.

Q: Why is the substitute part classified as active while the main part is obsolete?

A: Product status reflects manufacturing lifecycle. The 0349618345 remains in active production, ensuring component availability, technical support, and compliance with current manufacturing standards. The 0349618342 has been discontinued.

Q: Are there any thermal or electrical limitations with the substitute part?

A: The 0349618345 specifies operating temperature range of -40°C ~ 105°C and voltage rating of 14VDC. These parameters are suitable for automotive applications. Verify that your specific application requirements fall within these limits.

Q: What does the UL94 HB flammability rating indicate?

A: UL94 HB is a material flammability classification indicating the insulation material meets horizontal burning requirements. This certification is standard for automotive connector applications.

Q: Are the fastening mechanisms interchangeable?

A: The main part uses Latch Lock fastening while the substitute uses Latch Holder. Both mechanisms provide secure mating and are compatible with the Mini50 34961 series connector family. Verify mating connector compatibility with your specific cable assembly.