Molex 0444742421 Rectangular Connector Header - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0444742421 is a shrouded rectangular connector header designed for through-hole mounting in board-to-board or cable applications. This 24-position, dual-row connector operates at 0.165" (4.20mm) pitch and features tin-plated copper alloy contacts with solder termination. The component is currently active in production with 740 units in stock. Substitute parts are identified when product availability changes, supply chain constraints occur, or when equivalent electrical and mechanical specifications align with application requirements.

Substiute Parts

0444742421

MolexIn Stock: 7540444742421 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

2-1586587-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 8902-1586587-4 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors part number 2-1586587-4 qualifies as a substitute based on the following alignment of critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Both are header connectors with male pin contacts
• Position Count & Row Configuration: Both feature 24 positions arranged in 2 rows
• Pitch Specification: Both maintain 0.165" (4.20mm) mating pitch and row spacing
• Mounting & Termination: Both use through-hole mounting with solder termination
• Shrouding Design: Both incorporate shrouded 4-wall construction
• Insulation Material: Both use polyamide-based nylon insulation
• Contact Finish: Both employ tin plating on mating surfaces
• Flammability Compliance: Both meet UL94 V-0 rating
• Regulatory Compliance: Both are RoHS compliant

The substitute part is classified as discontinued at DiGi Electronics, requiring evaluation of long-term availability before selection.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: Molex 0444742421 remains the preferred choice due to active product status and confirmed availability of 740 units in stock. This connector is suitable for new designs and production builds requiring long-term supply assurance.

Substitute Selection: TE Connectivity 2-1586587-4 is electrically and mechanically equivalent and may be considered when Molex availability is constrained. However, this part is discontinued at DiGi Electronics, requiring verification of alternative distribution channels and remaining inventory before commitment to production use. The substitute maintains equivalent electrical performance, mechanical fit, and regulatory compliance (UL94 V-0, RoHS).

Compliance Considerations: Both parts meet UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and RoHS compliance standards. The Molex part carries ROHS3 certification, while the TE part carries standard RoHS certification. Both are classified as EAR99 for export control purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TE Connectivity 2-1586587-4 be used as a direct replacement for the Molex 0444742421?

A: Yes, from an electrical and mechanical standpoint. Both connectors share identical pitch (0.165"), position count (24), row configuration (2 rows), mounting method (through-hole solder), and shrouding design (4-wall). Contact finish, insulation material, and flammability ratings are equivalent. However, the TE part is discontinued at DiGi Electronics, requiring supply chain verification before production implementation.

Q: What are the key parameters that determine substitution eligibility?

A: Substitution is based on matching: connector type (header), contact type (male pin), position count (24), row count (2), mating pitch (0.165"/4.20mm), row spacing (0.165"/4.20mm), mounting type (through-hole), shrouding configuration (4-wall), termination method (solder), insulation material (polyamide/nylon), contact finish (tin), and flammability rating (UL94 V-0).

Q: Are there differences in contact material between these parts?

A: Yes. The Molex 0444742421 uses copper alloy contacts, while the TE Connectivity 2-1586587-4 uses brass alloy contacts. Both materials are tin-plated and suitable for solder termination. This material difference does not affect electrical performance or mechanical compatibility in standard applications.

Q: What is the difference in contact finish thickness?

A: The Molex part specifies 100.0µin (2.54µm) tin plating thickness, while the TE part specifies 39.4µin (1.00µm). Both thicknesses meet industry standards for solder-terminated connectors and do not impact functional compatibility.

Q: Are both parts suitable for automotive and industrial applications?

A: The Molex 0444742421 is specified for automotive, general purpose, industrial, medical, and telecommunications applications. The TE Connectivity 2-1586587-4 is specified for general purpose, industrial, and lighting applications. Application suitability should be verified against specific end-use requirements.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for these connectors?

A: Both parts are rated MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions during storage or handling.