TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 178431-1 PCMCIA Card Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 178431-1 is a 68-position PCMCIA card connector designed for through-hole, right-angle mounting applications. This connector features push-in, pull-out insertion and removal methodology with gold-plated contacts and integrated card guides. The part is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent components to maintain design continuity and ensure ongoing component availability for production and field service applications.

Substiute Parts

178431-1

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 898178431-1 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5178431-1

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 10475178431-1 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 178431-1 connector is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Card Type: PCMCIA standard compliance
• Number of Positions: 68-position configuration
• Mounting Type: Through hole, right-angle orientation
• Insertion, Removal Method: Push-in, pull-out mechanism
• Contact Finish: Gold plating with 11.8µin (0.30µm) thickness specification
• Height Above Board: 0.280" (7.10mm) clearance requirement
• Features: Integrated card guides
• Mounting Feature: Normal, standard top-side mounting

Substitute parts must maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all parameters listed above. Product status and compliance certifications are secondary considerations that inform selection priority but do not alter functional compatibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 5178431-1 is a direct functional equivalent to the 178431-1 PCMCIA card connector. All electrical and mechanical parameters are identical, including position count, mounting configuration, contact specifications, and physical dimensions.

The primary distinction between these parts is product status and regulatory compliance. The 178431-1 is classified as obsolete and carries RoHS non-compliant status. The 5178431-1 is an active product with RoHS compliance certification.

For new designs and ongoing production applications, the 5178431-1 is the appropriate selection. This part maintains full functional compatibility while providing active product support and regulatory compliance alignment with current environmental and safety standards.

For legacy system maintenance where original component specifications are mandated, the 178431-1 remains functionally valid. However, component availability is limited to existing inventory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 178431-1 and 5178431-1 electrically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors are 68-position PCMCIA card connectors with identical electrical specifications, including gold contact finish, contact thickness, and insertion/removal methodology. They function identically in circuit applications.

Q: What is the physical compatibility between these parts?

A: Complete physical compatibility exists. Both connectors share identical mounting type (through hole, right angle), height above board (0.280" / 7.10mm), and mounting feature specifications. No PCB layout or mechanical redesign is required for substitution.

Q: Why does the 5178431-1 have a different base product number?

A: The base product number change reflects the transition from an obsolete part (178431) to an active product line (5178431). This nomenclature change is standard practice in component lifecycle management and does not affect functional performance.

Q: What is the significance of the RoHS compliance difference?

A: The 5178431-1 is RoHS compliant, meeting current environmental regulations for lead and hazardous substance restrictions. The 178431-1 is RoHS non-compliant. For applications subject to RoHS requirements, the 5178431-1 is the required selection.

Q: Can the 5178431-1 be used in applications originally designed for the 178431-1?

A: Yes. The 5178431-1 is a direct substitute with no design modifications required. All electrical, mechanical, and dimensional specifications are identical.

Q: What is the inventory status for these parts?

A: The 178431-1 has 849 pieces in stock (obsolete status). The 5178431-1 has 1007 pieces in stock (active product). For ongoing procurement, the 5178431-1 provides superior long-term availability.

Q: Are there any performance differences between these connectors?

A: No performance differences exist. Both connectors meet identical specifications for contact resistance, insertion force, and mechanical durability. The 5178431-1 represents a direct functional replacement.