Molex 0879140804 Rectangular Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0879140804 is an 8-position vertical header connector with 2.54mm pitch, designed for through-hole board-to-board or cable applications. This connector features a breakaway design with unshrouded construction and is widely used in automotive, medical, telecommunications, and general-purpose applications. The part is currently active in production with 772 units in stock. Substitute parts are identified to provide alternative sourcing options when the primary part is unavailable or when design flexibility permits equivalent component selection.

Substiute Parts

0879140804

MolexIn Stock: 8040879140804 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

961208-6404-AR

3MIn Stock: 1844961208-6404-AR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 0879140804 is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Header with male pins, 8-position, 2-row arrangement
• Pitch Specification: 0.100" (2.54mm) mating pitch and row spacing
• Mounting & Termination: Through-hole solder termination
• Contact Finish: Gold-plated mating surface with tin-plated posts
• Insulation & Compliance: UL94 V-0 flammability rating, RoHS compliance, MSL 1

The 3M 961208-6404-AR qualifies as a manufacturer-recommended substitute based on matching these core electrical and mechanical parameters. Both connectors share identical pitch, position count, row configuration, mounting method, and contact finish specifications. Variations in contact length dimensions and insulation material composition remain within acceptable tolerance for equivalent functional performance in standard through-hole applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the Molex 0879140804 and 3M 961208-6404-AR are active production components with equivalent electrical and mechanical compatibility for standard through-hole applications. Selection between these parts should be based on:

• Availability: The 3M 961208-6404-AR currently has higher inventory (1755 units) compared to the Molex part (772 units), making it suitable for high-volume procurement scenarios.
• Compliance Status: Both parts meet RoHS requirements and UL94 V-0 flammability standards. The Molex part carries ROHS3 certification, while the 3M part carries standard RoHS compliance.
• Packaging Consideration: The Molex part is supplied in trays, while the 3M substitute is supplied in bulk packaging. Packaging selection should align with assembly process requirements.
• Thermal & Current Specifications: The 3M part provides documented operating temperature range (-25°C ~ 105°C) and current rating (2A), offering explicit performance boundaries for design verification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3M 961208-6404-AR directly replace the Molex 0879140804 in existing designs?

A: Yes, for applications where the connector pitch, position count, row configuration, mounting method, and contact finish are the primary design criteria. Both parts share identical 2.54mm pitch, 8-position, 2-row configuration with through-hole solder termination and gold-plated mating contacts. Physical board layout compatibility should be verified, as minor dimensional variations exist in contact length and insulation height.

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

A: The primary differences are insulation material composition (Molex uses LCP glass-filled material versus 3M thermoplastic), contact length dimensions, and packaging format (tray versus bulk). The 3M part provides explicit operating temperature and current ratings, while the Molex part does not specify these parameters in the available data.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences?

A: Both parts meet UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and MSL 1 moisture sensitivity levels. The Molex part carries ROHS3 certification, while the 3M part carries standard RoHS compliance. Both are REACH unaffected and classified under ECCN EAR99.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: Selection depends on design requirements and supply chain priorities. For designs requiring documented thermal and current specifications, the 3M 961208-6404-AR provides explicit performance parameters. For designs prioritizing ROHS3 certification or tray packaging, the Molex 0879140804 is appropriate. Both are active production parts suitable for new applications.

Q: Does packaging format affect connector performance?

A: No. Tray and bulk packaging formats do not affect electrical or mechanical performance. Packaging selection should be based on assembly process requirements, inventory management practices, and handling procedures.