Molex 1718573003 Rectangular Connector Header - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Molex 1718573003 is an active-status rectangular connector header designed for through-hole, right-angle board-to-board or cable applications. This 3-position, 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch connector features shrouded design with friction lock fastening and tin-plated brass contacts. The component is widely used in automotive, medical, telecommunications, and general-purpose applications where reliable interconnection is required. Substitute parts may be necessary due to inventory constraints, lead time considerations, or specific application requirements that align with alternative connector specifications.

Substiute Parts

1718573003

MolexIn Stock: 11051718573003 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

171826-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 3389171826-3 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Molex 1718573003 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Header with male pins for through-hole mounting
• Position Count: 3-position configuration
• Pitch Tolerance: Mating pitch of 0.100" (2.54mm) or equivalent metric conversion (0.098" / 2.50mm falls within acceptable tolerance range for connector compatibility)
• Mounting Style: Right-angle through-hole orientation
• Shrouding & Fastening: Shrouded design with mechanical fastening mechanism
• Termination Method: Solder termination on PCB
• Contact Material & Finish: Brass with tin plating for corrosion resistance
• Insulation Material: Polyamide/Nylon construction
• Compliance: ROHS3 compliance and active product status

The substitute part TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 171826-3 meets these core substitution criteria with minor pitch variation (0.098" vs. 0.100") that remains within standard connector tolerance specifications for this product category.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the Molex 1718573003 and TE Connectivity 171826-3 maintain active product status and full ROHS3 compliance, qualifying them as viable alternatives within this connector category. The TE Connectivity substitute provides enhanced material flammability performance (UL94 V-0 vs. V-2) and explicit electrical ratings (2A at 250VAC/350VDC), which may be advantageous for applications requiring higher safety margins or documented electrical specifications. The pitch differential of 0.002" (0.04mm) between the two connectors remains within standard tolerance ranges for rectangular connector mating interfaces. Selection between these parts should be based on application-specific requirements for flammability rating, documented electrical performance, and connector fastening mechanism preference (friction lock vs. latch holder).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TE Connectivity 171826-3 directly replace the Molex 1718573003 in existing designs?

A: Direct mechanical and electrical substitution is possible due to matching connector type, position count, mounting orientation, and contact configuration. However, the 0.002" pitch difference and different fastening mechanisms (friction lock vs. latch holder) require verification that mating connectors and PCB footprints accommodate the TE Connectivity part specifications.

Q: What is the significance of the pitch difference between 0.100" and 0.098"?

A: The 0.002" (0.04mm) variation falls within standard tolerance specifications for rectangular connectors in this category. Both pitches are industry-standard metric equivalents (2.54mm and 2.50mm respectively) and are compatible with standard connector mating interfaces.

Q: How do the fastening mechanisms differ between these parts?

A: The Molex 1718573003 uses friction lock fastening, while the TE Connectivity 171826-3 employs a latch holder mechanism. Both provide secure mechanical retention; however, the latch holder design may offer enhanced mating security in applications subject to vibration or mechanical stress.

Q: Are there compliance or certification differences between these connectors?

A: Both parts are ROHS3 compliant and maintain active product status. The TE Connectivity substitute provides a higher material flammability rating (UL94 V-0 vs. V-2), which may be required for applications in automotive, medical, or telecommunications environments with stringent safety standards.

Q: What packaging considerations apply to these substitute parts?

A: The Molex 1718573003 is supplied in cut tape (CT) packaging, while the TE Connectivity 171826-3 is supplied in bulk packaging. Procurement and handling procedures may differ accordingly.