Molex 0879209146 Rectangular Connector Header – Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0879209146 is a surface mount rectangular connector header designed for board-to-board or cable applications. This 14-position, 2-row header with 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch is part of the C-Grid 87920 series and is actively manufactured. The connector features unshrouded male pins with solder termination and push-pull fastening, making it suitable for automotive, medical, telecommunications, and general-purpose applications. Finding equivalent substitute parts ensures design flexibility, supply chain continuity, and access to alternative packaging or performance characteristics when the primary part becomes unavailable or when specific application requirements necessitate alternative specifications.

Substiute Parts

0879209146

MolexIn Stock: 9890879209146 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

95278-401A14LF

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 136495278-401A14LF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 0879209146 is determined by strict alignment with the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type: Header, Breakaway configuration
• Contact Type: Male Pin
• Pitch - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm) — exact match required
• Number of Positions: 14 positions
• Number of Rows: 2 rows
• Row Spacing - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm) — exact match required
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Termination: Solder
• Fastening Type: Push-Pull
• Shrouding: Unshrouded
• Contact Finish - Mating: Tin
• Material Flammability Rating: UL94 V-0
• RoHS Status: RoHS Compliant

The Amphenol ICC (FCI) part number 95278-401A14LF meets all critical substitution criteria. Variations in contact material (Phosphor Bronze vs. Copper Alloy), insulation material composition, contact length specifications, and packaging format (Tape & Reel vs. Tube) do not preclude substitution when the above parameters align.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the Molex 0879209146 and Amphenol ICC 95278-401A14LF are actively manufactured products with full RoHS compliance and UL94 V-0 flammability certification. The Amphenol ICC part carries REACH Affected status, which may be relevant for applications subject to REACH regulations. Both connectors maintain MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity, indicating no special storage or handling requirements.

The primary differences between these parts are non-critical to substitution: contact material composition (Phosphor Bronze vs. Copper Alloy), insulation material type (Thermoplastic vs. LCP Glass Filled), and minor dimensional variations in contact length and insulation height. These differences do not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility in standard board-to-board applications.

Selection between these parts should be based on supply availability, packaging preference (Tube vs. Tape & Reel), and any application-specific requirements related to contact material performance or insulation material properties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Amphenol ICC 95278-401A14LF be used as a direct replacement for the Molex 0879209146?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical pitch (0.100"), position count (14), row configuration (2 rows), mounting type (Surface Mount), termination method (Solder), and fastening mechanism (Push-Pull). Electrical and mechanical compatibility is maintained.

Q: What is the significance of the contact material difference (Phosphor Bronze vs. Copper Alloy)?

A: Both materials are standard for connector applications and provide adequate electrical conductivity and durability. Phosphor Bronze offers slightly different mechanical properties and corrosion resistance characteristics. Selection depends on specific application requirements; no universal superiority exists between the two for standard applications.

Q: Does the insulation material difference affect performance?

A: The Molex part uses Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) Glass Filled, while the Amphenol ICC part uses Thermoplastic. Both materials meet UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and are suitable for the specified applications. Material selection may influence thermal performance and mechanical rigidity; consult application-specific requirements if thermal cycling or mechanical stress is a concern.

Q: Why is the Amphenol ICC part available in Tape & Reel packaging while the Molex part is in Tube?

A: Packaging format reflects manufacturing and distribution preferences. Tape & Reel packaging is optimized for automated assembly processes, while Tube packaging is suitable for manual handling and smaller volume applications. Both formats contain the same connector specifications.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences between these parts?

A: Both parts are RoHS Compliant and carry UL94 V-0 flammability certification. The Amphenol ICC part is marked as REACH Affected, which is relevant for applications in regions subject to REACH regulations. Both maintain MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity.

Q: What are the minor dimensional differences, and do they matter?

A: Contact length differs by 0.008" (0.20mm), and insulation height differs by 0.010" (0.25mm). These variations are within typical manufacturing tolerances and do not affect standard board-to-board mating or electrical performance in typical applications.