Molex 0398800307 Terminal Block - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0398800307 is a 7-position wire-to-board terminal block with horizontal mating orientation and 0.200" (5.08mm) pitch spacing. This component is designed for PCB-mounted applications requiring screw-based wire termination with side interlocking features. The part is currently active in production with 957 units in stock. Alternative equivalent parts may be required due to supply constraints, design revisions, or specific application requirements that demand different electrical ratings or material specifications.

Substiute Parts

0398800307

MolexIn Stock: 10170398800307 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

282841-7

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1217282841-7 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 282841-7 qualifies as a direct substitute based on the following critical parameters:

• Positions and Pitch: Both parts feature 7 positions at 0.200" (5.08mm) pitch, ensuring identical PCB footprint compatibility
• Mating Orientation: Both are horizontal with board configuration
• Mounting Type: Both use through-hole PCB mounting
• Wire Termination Method: Both employ screw-based rising cage clamp termination
• Interlocking Feature: Both include side interlocking capability
• Voltage Rating: Both rated at 300 V
• Screw Thread: Both use M3 threads

The 282841-7 exhibits higher current capacity (17.5 A vs. 14.6 A) and broader wire gauge compatibility (12-30 AWG vs. 16-30 AWG), making it suitable for applications within the original part's electrical envelope while providing additional design margin.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both parts maintain active product status and comply with applicable regulatory requirements. The Molex 0398800307 carries ROHS3 compliance, while the TE Connectivity 282841-7 is RoHS compliant. Both are classified as EAR99 for export control purposes and share identical HTSUS tariff codes.

The TE Connectivity 282841-7 provides enhanced electrical performance with 17.5 A current capacity and extended wire gauge accommodation (12-30 AWG), offering greater design flexibility for applications operating within the 300 V voltage envelope. The higher screw torque specification (0.79 Nm vs. 0.68 Nm) reflects the Buchanan series design characteristics.

Material composition differs between the two parts: the Molex uses copper alloy contacts with tin plating, while the TE Connectivity employs brass contacts with tin plating. Both contact systems are suitable for the specified voltage and current ratings. Housing material specifications differ (PA nylon vs. PA66 nylon 6/6), with PA66 offering enhanced thermal and mechanical properties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TE Connectivity 282841-7 be used as a direct replacement for the Molex 0398800307?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical pitch (0.200"), position count (7), mating orientation (horizontal with board), mounting type (through hole), and wire termination method (screw-based rising cage clamp). PCB footprints are compatible, and electrical ratings are equivalent or superior.

Q: What are the key differences between these two parts?

A: The TE Connectivity 282841-7 offers higher current capacity (17.5 A vs. 14.6 A), broader wire gauge range (12-30 AWG vs. 16-30 AWG), and higher screw torque specification (0.79 Nm vs. 0.68 Nm). Contact material composition differs (brass vs. copper alloy), and housing material specifications vary (PA66 vs. PA).

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns with wire gauge differences?

A: The TE Connectivity 282841-7 accommodates wire gauges from 12-30 AWG, while the Molex 0398800307 accepts 16-30 AWG. Applications using wire gauges 16-30 AWG are fully compatible with both parts. Applications requiring 12-15 AWG wire termination can only use the TE Connectivity part.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory standards?

A: Both parts comply with RoHS requirements and are classified as EAR99 for export control. The Molex part carries ROHS3 compliance, while the TE Connectivity part is RoHS compliant. Both share the same HTSUS tariff classification (8536.90.4000).

Q: What is the impact of different contact materials on performance?

A: Both copper alloy (Molex) and brass (TE Connectivity) contacts with tin plating are suitable for the specified 300 V and 14.6-17.5 A operating envelope. Material selection reflects manufacturer design philosophy and does not affect functional compatibility for this application category.

Q: Are screw torque specifications interchangeable?

A: The Molex part specifies 0.68 Nm (6 Lb-In) torque, while the TE Connectivity part specifies 0.79 Nm (7.0 Lb-In). Both M3 screw threads are compatible with standard assembly equipment. Torque specifications must be observed during assembly to ensure proper contact pressure and electrical performance.