Molex 0879371206 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0879371206 is a 12-position header spacer connector with 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch, designed for through-hole mounting applications. This connector features tin contact finish and is part of the C-Grid 87937 series. The product is currently active and widely used in standard PCB interconnect applications where reliable through-hole connectivity is required. Substitute parts may be necessary due to inventory constraints, lead time considerations, or specific application requirements that benefit from alternative contact finishes or stack heights.

Substiute Parts

0879371206

MolexIn Stock: 11120879371206 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

ZW-12-09-S-S-360-120-LL

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 786ZW-12-09-S-S-360-120-LL Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 0879371206 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Position Count & Pitch: Must be 12 positions at 0.100" (2.54mm) spacing
• Mounting Configuration: Through-hole mounting with solder termination required
• Overall Pin Length: Must match 0.730" (18.542mm) to ensure PCB compatibility
• Compliance: RoHS3 compliance and MSL 1 rating mandatory
• Connector Category: Rectangular header spacer connectors only

The Samtec ZW-12-09-S-S-360-120-LL qualifies as a direct substitute based on these parameters. While contact finish and stack height differ, these variations do not affect electrical or mechanical interchangeability in standard through-hole applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the Molex 0879371206 and Samtec ZW-12-09-S-S-360-120-LL are active products with full RoHS3 compliance and MSL 1 ratings, making them suitable for equivalent selection in through-hole applications. The primary differences—contact finish (tin versus gold) and stack height (0.433" versus 0.360")—do not affect mechanical or electrical interchangeability for standard PCB mounting.

Selection between these parts should be based on:

• Availability: Current inventory levels and lead times
• Stack Height Requirement: The Samtec part offers a lower profile (0.360" versus 0.433"), which may be advantageous in space-constrained designs
• Contact Finish Preference: Gold plating on the Samtec part provides enhanced corrosion resistance compared to tin
• Cost Considerations: Tin-plated connectors typically offer cost advantages over gold-plated alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Samtec ZW-12-09-S-S-360-120-LL be used as a direct replacement for the Molex 0879371206?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical position count (12), pitch (0.100"), overall pin length (0.730"), mounting type (through-hole), and compliance ratings. The differences in stack height and contact finish do not prevent mechanical or electrical interchangeability in standard applications.

Q: What is the significance of the different stack heights?

A: The Molex part has a stack height of 0.433" while the Samtec part measures 0.360". Stack height affects the vertical spacing between the connector and the PCB surface. The lower Samtec profile may be beneficial in applications with height constraints but should be verified against specific board layout requirements.

Q: Does the gold contact finish on the Samtec part affect compatibility?

A: No. Gold plating is a surface treatment that enhances corrosion resistance and contact reliability. It does not affect mechanical fit or electrical performance in standard solder-terminated through-hole applications. Gold-plated contacts are generally preferred for long-term reliability in harsh environments.

Q: Are both parts suitable for high-reliability applications?

A: Both parts meet RoHS3 compliance and carry MSL 1 ratings, indicating suitability for standard industrial and commercial applications. Specific high-reliability requirements should be evaluated against individual application specifications and environmental conditions.

Q: What is the difference between tin and gold contact finishes?

A: Tin plating is cost-effective and suitable for standard applications. Gold plating provides superior corrosion resistance, lower contact resistance, and extended shelf life, making it preferable for applications requiring enhanced reliability or extended storage periods.