Molex 0438796021 Rectangular Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0438796021 is a shrouded header connector from the Mini-Fit BMI/CPI 43879 series, designed for through-hole board-to-board or cable applications. This connector features 10 positions arranged in 2 rows with a 0.165" (4.20mm) pitch and employs press-fit and solder termination methods with latch holder fastening. The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent components essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications across general purpose, industrial, medical, and telecommunications sectors.

Substiute Parts

0438796021

MolexIn Stock: 11540438796021 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0438790058

MolexIn Stock: 6970438790058 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the Molex 0438796021 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector type (Header)
• Contact type (Male Pin)
• Number of positions (10) and row configuration (2 rows)
• Mating pitch and row spacing (0.165" / 4.20mm)
• Mounting method (Through Hole)
• Shrouding configuration (Shrouded - 4 Wall)
• Termination method (Press-Fit, Solder)
• Fastening mechanism (Latch Holder)
• Contact materials and finishes (Phosphor Bronze with Gold mating finish and Tin post finish)
• Insulation material and flammability rating (Polyamide/Nylon, Glass Filled, UL94 V-0)

The substitute part 0438790058 maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility across all these parameters while offering improved product status and regulatory compliance.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Molex 0438790058 serves as the direct active equivalent to the obsolete 0438796021. Both connectors maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters, ensuring functional interchangeability in board-to-board and cable applications.

The primary distinction between these parts lies in product lifecycle status and regulatory compliance. The 0438796021 is classified as obsolete and does not meet RoHS3 requirements, whereas the 0438790058 is an active product with full ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status. For new designs and ongoing production requiring regulatory compliance with modern environmental standards, the 0438790058 is the appropriate selection.

The 0438790058 is supplied in tray packaging with all 10 positions loaded, compared to the main part's 8 loaded positions. This represents a manufacturing improvement without affecting connector functionality or compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 0438796021 and 0438790058 electrically and mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical specifications for pitch (0.165" / 4.20mm), number of positions (10 in 2 rows), contact materials (Phosphor Bronze), contact finishes (Gold mating, Tin post), mounting method (Through Hole), shrouding (Shrouded - 4 Wall), and termination (Press-Fit, Solder). They are fully interchangeable in applications.

Q: What is the significance of the difference in "Number of Positions Loaded"?

A: The 0438796021 has 8 positions loaded, while the 0438790058 has all 10 positions loaded. This indicates that the substitute part includes all available contact positions pre-installed. Both connectors support the same 10-position configuration; the difference reflects manufacturing completeness rather than functional capability.

Q: Why is the 0438796021 classified as obsolete?

A: The 0438796021 is an older product that has been superseded by the 0438790058. The substitute part offers improved product status (Active), enhanced regulatory compliance (ROHS3 Compliant), and better availability.

Q: Does the packaging difference affect connector performance?

A: No. The 0438796021 is supplied without specified packaging, while the 0438790058 is supplied in tray packaging. Packaging affects handling, storage, and logistics but does not alter electrical or mechanical performance.

Q: Is the 0438790058 suitable for medical and telecommunications applications?

A: Yes. The 0438790058 is rated for General Purpose, Industrial, Medical, and Telecommunications applications, matching the application scope of the 0438796021.

Q: What is the RoHS compliance status difference?

A: The 0438796021 is RoHS non-compliant, while the 0438790058 is ROHS3 compliant. For applications subject to RoHS3 regulations, the 0438790058 is the required selection.