TE Connectivity 176288-2 Rectangular Connector Housing Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 176288-2 is a 10-position rectangular connector receptacle housing designed for the Universal Power series. This component serves as the housing structure for crimp-terminated tab contacts in applications requiring a 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch configuration. The part is actively manufactured and maintained in production status. Identification of equivalent substitute parts becomes necessary when primary inventory is unavailable, when alternative color specifications are required for application-specific requirements, or when procurement from multiple qualified sources is mandated by supply chain protocols.

Substiute Parts

176288-2

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1010176288-2 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

176288-1

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 3930176288-1 Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for rectangular connector housings in this category is determined by strict equivalence across all electrical and mechanical parameters. The 176288-2 and its substitute part 176288-1 share identical specifications across the following critical parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (10)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Row configuration (2 rows at 0.181" / 4.60mm spacing)
• Contact type and termination method (Tab, Crimp)
• Fastening mechanism (Latch Lock)
• Mounting configuration (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Insulation material composition (Polyamide PA66, Nylon 6/6)
• Operating temperature range (-30°C ~ 105°C)
• Moisture sensitivity classification (MSL 1)

The only differentiating parameter between these parts is the housing color specification: 176288-2 features red insulation, while 176288-1 features natural (undyed) insulation. This color distinction does not affect electrical performance, mechanical compatibility, or thermal characteristics. Both parts are derived from the same base product number (176288) and maintain full interchangeability in applications where color specification is not a functional requirement.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the 176288-2 and 176288-1 are active production parts manufactured by TE Connectivity and maintain full regulatory compliance. The 176288-2 carries RoHS Compliance certification, while the 176288-1 carries ROHS3 Compliance certification. Both parts satisfy environmental and regulatory requirements for their respective applications.

Selection between these parts should be based on the following criteria:

176288-2 (Red Housing): Select this part when application specifications explicitly require red insulation housing for color-coded circuit identification, visual assembly verification, or documented design requirements that specify red connector housings.

176288-1 (Natural Housing): Select this part when application specifications do not mandate a specific housing color, when natural (undyed) insulation is preferred for cost optimization, or when ROHS3 compliance is specifically required. This part maintains higher inventory availability (3,828 pieces versus 935 pieces for the red variant).

Both parts are suitable for identical electrical and mechanical applications. The choice between them is determined solely by color specification requirements and regulatory compliance preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 176288-2 and 176288-1 electrically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both parts are electrically identical. They feature the same 10-position configuration, 0.156" pitch, tab contact type, crimp termination, and latch lock fastening. Electrical performance and signal integrity characteristics are identical between the two parts.

Q: What is the only functional difference between these two connector housings?

A: The only difference is the housing color. The 176288-2 features red insulation, while the 176288-1 features natural (undyed) insulation. This color distinction does not affect electrical properties, mechanical fit, thermal performance, or compatibility with standard tab contacts.

Q: Can I substitute the 176288-1 (natural) for the 176288-2 (red) in an existing assembly?

A: Substitution is permissible only if the application design does not specify red housing as a functional or identification requirement. If color coding is used for circuit identification or assembly verification, substitution would not be appropriate. If color is not a specified requirement, the natural housing part is a direct substitute.

Q: Do these parts require contacts to be purchased separately?

A: Yes. Both the 176288-2 and 176288-1 are housing-only components. Contacts are not included and must be ordered separately. Ensure that replacement contacts are specified for tab-type, crimp-terminated connections compatible with the 0.156" pitch configuration.

Q: What is the difference between RoHS Compliance and ROHS3 Compliance?

A: Both certifications indicate compliance with Restriction of Hazardous Substances regulations. ROHS3 represents the current version of the RoHS directive. Both parts meet environmental compliance requirements; the difference reflects the certification version applicable at the time of manufacture.

Q: Are both parts suitable for the full operating temperature range of -30°C to 105°C?

A: Yes. Both the 176288-2 and 176288-1 are rated for continuous operation across the -30°C to 105°C temperature range. The polyamide (PA66) insulation material in both parts maintains mechanical and electrical properties throughout this range.

Q: What does MSL 1 (Unlimited) mean for these connector housings?

A: MSL 1 indicates the lowest moisture sensitivity level. These parts have unlimited shelf life and do not require special moisture-controlled storage conditions. They can be stored and handled under standard industrial conditions without degradation.