Molex 0438600021 Modular Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0438600021 is a Jack Modular Connector with 8p8c (RJ45, Ethernet) configuration, featuring 90° right-angle orientation and unshielded design rated for Cat3 applications. This connector is designed for through-hole mounting with solder termination and includes board lock and light pipe features.

The 0438600021 carries an Obsolete product status. Identifying equivalent substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and support ongoing production or maintenance requirements for systems utilizing this connector type.

Substiute Parts

0438600021

MolexIn Stock: 10970438600021 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0438600007

MolexIn Stock: 106100438600007 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 0438600021 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type: Jack
• Number of Positions/Contacts: 8p8c (RJ45, Ethernet)
• Orientation: 90° Angle (Right)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Termination: Solder
• Shielding: Unshielded
• Ratings: Cat3
• Contact Material: Phosphor Bronze
• Contact Finish: Gold with 50.0µin (1.27µm) thickness
• Housing Material: Polyamide (PA), Nylon, Glass Filled
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 85°C
• RoHS Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant

The substitute part Molex 0438600007 meets all these criteria and belongs to the same 43860 series, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility with applications originally designed for the 0438600021.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Molex 0438600007 is the direct substitute for the obsolete Molex 0438600021. Both parts are manufactured by Molex within the same 43860 series and share identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters.

The 0438600007 carries Active product status, ensuring ongoing availability and manufacturer support. Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, meeting current regulatory requirements for electronic component procurement.

The 0438600007 is supplied in Tube packaging, providing standard handling and storage conditions suitable for production environments. The transition from the obsolete 0438600021 to the 0438600007 presents no electrical, mechanical, or compliance barriers for existing designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Molex 0438600007 be used as a direct replacement for the 0438600021 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 0438600007 is electrically and mechanically identical to the 0438600021 across all specified parameters, including connector type, pin configuration, orientation, termination method, contact materials, and operating temperature range. No design modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary reason for substitution?

A: The 0438600021 carries Obsolete product status. The 0438600007 is the Active equivalent part from Molex, ensuring continued supply chain availability and manufacturer support.

Q: Are there any compliance differences between the two parts?

A: No. Both parts are ROHS3 Compliant, REACH Unaffected, and carry identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications. Regulatory compliance is maintained with the substitute part.

Q: Does packaging differ between these parts?

A: The 0438600021 packaging is not specified. The 0438600007 is supplied in Tube packaging, which is standard for modular connector distribution and suitable for production assembly processes.

Q: Are the contact materials and finishes identical?

A: Yes. Both parts use Phosphor Bronze contacts with Gold finish at 50.0µin (1.27µm) thickness, ensuring equivalent electrical performance and reliability characteristics.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for both parts?

A: Both the 0438600021 and 0438600007 operate across the range of -40°C to 85°C, supporting applications in standard industrial and commercial environments.