Molex 0543630278 Rectangular Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0543630278 is a 20-position rectangular connector receptacle with center strip contacts, designed for surface mount applications. This connector features gold-plated contacts and is part of the SlimStack 54363 series. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of functional equivalents essential for ongoing production support, design updates, and component sourcing strategies.

Substiute Parts

0543630278
MolexIn Stock: 9350543630278 Datasheet
0543630278
Current Part
0543630289
MolexIn Stock: 224640543630289 Datasheet
0543630289
Parametric Equivalent

Key Parameters

Parameter Value
Manufacturer Part Number 0543630278
Manufacturer Molex
Category Rectangular Connectors
Series SlimStack 54363
Connector Type Receptacle, Center Strip Contacts
Number of Positions 20
Pitch 0.020" (0.50mm)
Number of Rows 2
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Contact Finish Gold
Contact Finish Thickness 10.0µin (0.25µm)
Height Above Board 0.059" (1.50mm)
Mated Stacking Heights 2mm, 3mm
Features Solder Retention
RoHS Status ROHS3 Compliant
Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1 (Unlimited)
REACH Status REACH Unaffected

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 0543630278 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

  • Connector type and contact configuration (Receptacle, Center Strip Contacts)
  • Electrical specifications (20 positions, 0.020" pitch, 2-row configuration)
  • Physical form factor (Surface mount, 0.059" height above board, 2mm/3mm stacking heights)
  • Contact material and finish (Gold plating, 10.0µin thickness)
  • Mechanical features (Solder retention capability)
  • Regulatory compliance (ROHS3, REACH Unaffected)

The substitute part identified maintains identical electrical and mechanical parameters, with the primary distinction being product status and packaging configuration.

Parameter Comparison

Parameter 0543630278 (Main Part) 0543630289 (Substitute)
Manufacturer Molex Molex
Series SlimStack 54363 SlimStack 54363
Connector Type Receptacle, Center Strip Contacts Receptacle, Center Strip Contacts
Number of Positions 20 20
Pitch 0.020" (0.50mm) 0.020" (0.50mm)
Number of Rows 2 2
Mounting Type Surface Mount Surface Mount
Contact Finish Gold Gold
Contact Finish Thickness 10.0µin (0.25µm) 10.0µin (0.25µm)
Height Above Board 0.059" (1.50mm) 0.059" (1.50mm)
Mated Stacking Heights 2mm, 3mm 2mm, 3mm
Features Solder Retention Solder Retention
RoHS Status ROHS3 Compliant ROHS3 Compliant
Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1 (Unlimited) 1 (Unlimited)
REACH Status REACH Unaffected REACH Unaffected
Product Status Obsolete Active
Packaging Bulk Tape & Reel (TR)

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Molex 0543630289 is a direct functional equivalent to the 0543630278. Both parts are manufactured by Molex within the SlimStack 54363 series and share identical electrical and mechanical specifications. The primary distinction is product lifecycle status: the 0543630278 is obsolete, while the 0543630289 maintains active production status.

For new designs or production continuity, the 0543630289 is the appropriate selection. This part carries identical ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, ensuring regulatory alignment. The packaging difference (Tape & Reel versus bulk) reflects standard industry practice for active production components and does not affect functional performance or PCB integration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Molex 0543630289 be used as a direct replacement for the 0543630278?

A: Yes. Both parts are electrically and mechanically identical. They share the same connector type, position count, pitch, mounting configuration, contact finish, and physical dimensions. The 0543630289 is the active production equivalent.

Q: What is the difference between the two part numbers?

A: The primary difference is product status and packaging. The 0543630278 is obsolete and supplied in bulk packaging. The 0543630289 is in active production and supplied in Tape & Reel packaging, which is standard for high-volume manufacturing environments.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences?

A: No. Both parts maintain identical ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status. They are functionally equivalent from a regulatory perspective.

Q: Does the Tape & Reel packaging affect PCB assembly compatibility?

A: No. Tape & Reel packaging is a supply format used for automated pick-and-place assembly. Once removed from the carrier tape, the connector component is identical to bulk-packaged versions and integrates identically into PCB designs.

Q: What are the critical parameters that define substitution eligibility?

A: Substitution is valid when the following parameters match: connector type, position count, pitch, row configuration, mounting type, contact finish and thickness, height above board, stacking heights, solder retention capability, and regulatory compliance status.

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