Molex 0901200946 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 0901200946 is a through-hole rectangular connector header with 26 positions at 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch, designed for board-to-board or cable applications. This connector is part of the C-Grid III 90120 series and maintains active product status with 1005 units in current inventory. The part features unshrouded design, solder termination, and push-pull fastening suitable for automotive and general-purpose applications.

Substitute parts become necessary when the main part reaches end-of-life status, when design requirements shift to different position counts, or when alternative manufacturers' components offer equivalent electrical and mechanical performance within specified parameters.

Substiute Parts

0901200946

MolexIn Stock: 10160901200946 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

4-103239-0

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 37784-103239-0 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors part number 4-103239-0 is listed as a manufacturer-recommended substitute. Substitution eligibility is determined by the following critical parameters:

Matching Parameters:

• Pitch - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm)
• Connector Type: Header, Breakaway
• Contact Type: Male Pin
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Termination: Solder
• Fastening Type: Push-Pull
• Contact Finish - Mating: Gold
• Contact Shape: Square
• Insulation Color: Black
• Material Flammability Rating: UL94 V-0
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 1 (Unlimited)

Differing Parameters:

• Number of Positions: 26 (main part) vs. 40 (substitute)
• Contact Length - Mating: 0.266" (6.75mm) vs. 0.230" (5.84mm)
• Contact Length - Post: 0.114" (2.90mm) vs. 0.120" (3.05mm)
• Insulation Height: 0.098" (2.50mm) vs. 0.090" (2.29mm)
• Operating Temperature: -55°C ~ 125°C vs. -65°C ~ 105°C
• Contact Material: Brass vs. Copper Alloy
• Insulation Material: Polyester, Glass Filled vs. Thermoplastic
• Contact Finish - Post: Tin vs. Tin-Lead
• Product Status: Active vs. Obsolete
• Current Rating: Not specified vs. 3A

The substitute part maintains electrical and mechanical compatibility through identical mating pitch and contact geometry principles, though position count and thermal operating range differ.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Selection between the Molex 0901200946 and TE Connectivity 4-103239-0 must account for the following engineering factors:

Product Status Consideration: The Molex 0901200946 maintains active product status with current inventory availability (1005 units), while the TE Connectivity 4-103239-0 is classified as obsolete. For new designs or long-term production requirements, the Molex part is the preferred choice due to ongoing manufacturer support and supply continuity.

Position Count Compatibility: The substitute part provides 40 positions versus 26 positions in the main part. This difference requires circuit board redesign and connector footprint modification. The substitute is suitable only when the application can accommodate the increased position count or when selective position loading is acceptable.

Compliance and Certification: Both parts meet UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and maintain MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity ratings. Both are classified under ECCN EAR99 and HTSUS 8536.69.4040. The Molex part carries ROHS3 compliance certification, while the TE Connectivity part shows "Not applicable" RoHS status due to obsolete classification.

Thermal Operating Range: The Molex part operates across -55°C to 125°C, providing a wider high-temperature margin. The TE Connectivity substitute operates -65°C to 105°C, offering extended low-temperature capability but reduced high-temperature performance. Application thermal requirements must be evaluated against these ranges.

Contact Material and Finish: The Molex part uses brass contacts with tin post finish, while the substitute employs copper alloy contacts with tin-lead post finish. Both configurations provide equivalent electrical performance for standard applications. The tin-lead finish on the substitute reflects legacy manufacturing practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TE Connectivity 4-103239-0 be used as a direct replacement for the Molex 0901200946?

A: Direct replacement is not possible due to differing position counts (40 vs. 26). The substitute requires circuit board redesign and connector footprint modification. Electrical compatibility exists through matching mating pitch (0.100"), contact type (male pin), and fastening mechanism (push-pull).

Q: What is the impact of the 40-position substitute on a 26-position application?

A: The 40-position connector has a longer overall length and requires a larger footprint on the printed circuit board. The application must either use selective position loading (leaving 14 positions unloaded) or redesign the connector interface. Mechanical clearance and board space availability must be verified.

Q: Are there thermal performance differences between these parts?

A: The Molex part operates to 125°C maximum, while the TE Connectivity substitute reaches only 105°C. For applications requiring sustained operation above 105°C, the Molex part is required. The substitute offers superior low-temperature performance (-65°C vs. -55°C).

Q: What is the significance of the "Obsolete" status for the TE Connectivity part?

A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer no longer produces this part and has ended design support. While inventory may be available from distributors (3740 units noted), future availability cannot be guaranteed. New designs should not incorporate obsolete components.

Q: Do both parts meet current RoHS compliance requirements?

A: The Molex 0901200946 carries ROHS3 compliance certification. The TE Connectivity 4-103239-0 shows "Not applicable" status due to its obsolete classification. For applications requiring RoHS compliance documentation, the Molex part is the appropriate choice.

Q: What are the contact material differences and their implications?

A: The Molex part uses brass contacts with tin finish; the substitute uses copper alloy contacts with tin-lead finish. Both materials provide equivalent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance for standard applications. The tin-lead finish on the substitute reflects older manufacturing standards and may present considerations for lead-free assembly requirements.

Q: Can the 40-position substitute be used with selective position loading?

A: Selective position loading is mechanically possible, allowing unused positions to remain empty. However, this approach increases component cost and assembly complexity compared to using a 26-position connector. Engineering evaluation must determine whether this approach meets design and cost objectives.