Pomona Electronics 1837 Banana Plug Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Pomona Electronics 1837 is a double, stackable banana plug connector with solder termination, designed for standard banana mating applications. This connector features beryllium copper contacts with polypropylene insulation and is rated for operation up to 55°C. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and system integration applications where this connector type is specified.

Substiute Parts

1837

Pomona ElectronicsIn Stock: 11751837 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BU-PMDP-0

Mueller Electric CoIn Stock: 1106BU-PMDP-0 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Pomona Electronics 1837 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Configuration: Must be banana plug, double, stackable design with male gender
• Mating Interface: Standard banana plug diameter for mechanical compatibility
• Mounting & Installation: Free hanging (in-line) configuration to match form factor
• Contact Material: Beryllium copper for electrical performance and reliability
• Body Material: Polypropylene (PP) for insulation properties
• Insulation Design: Non-mating end insulated for safety and functionality
• Regulatory Compliance: RoHS compliance status for environmental and legal requirements

The Mueller Electric Co BU-PMDP-0 qualifies as a functional substitute based on alignment across these core parameters. Differences in termination method (solderless vs. solder) and contact finish represent design variations that do not preclude substitution in applications where the connector interface requirements are met.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Pomona Electronics 1837 (Obsolete)

The Pomona 1837 is obsolete and no longer in active production. While 1075 pieces remain in inventory, long-term availability cannot be assured. This status necessitates qualification of alternative sources for new designs and ongoing system support.

Mueller Electric Co BU-PMDP-0 (Active)

The Mueller BU-PMDP-0 is an active product with confirmed inventory (1095 pieces) and ongoing manufacturing support. This connector meets all core mechanical and electrical interface requirements of the Pomona 1837. Key considerations for selection:

• Termination Compatibility: The solderless design with set screw termination eliminates solder joint reliability concerns and simplifies field installation. Applications currently using solder termination must evaluate whether solderless termination is acceptable for their electrical and mechanical requirements.
• Regulatory Status: Both parts maintain RoHS compliance. The Mueller part carries MSL 1 (Unlimited) rating, indicating superior moisture handling characteristics compared to the Pomona part (MSL Not Applicable).
• Color Differentiation: The black color of the Mueller part differs from the blue Pomona original. In color-coded circuit applications, this change must be documented and verified against system specifications.
• Contact Finish: The nickel finish on the Mueller part provides enhanced corrosion resistance compared to the unspecified finish on the Pomona part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Mueller BU-PMDP-0 directly replace the Pomona 1837 in existing assemblies?

A: The Mueller BU-PMDP-0 provides mechanical and electrical interface compatibility with the Pomona 1837 across all critical parameters: connector type, gender, mating diameter, mounting configuration, insulation design, contact material, and body material. However, the termination method differs (solderless vs. solder). Existing solder-terminated connections must be re-terminated using the set screw method. Color coding also differs (black vs. blue), which may require documentation updates in color-coded systems.

Q: What are the key differences between these two connectors?

A: The primary differences are: (1) Termination method—Pomona uses solder, Mueller uses solderless set screw; (2) Contact finish—Pomona unspecified, Mueller nickel-plated; (3) Color—Pomona blue, Mueller black; (4) Product status—Pomona obsolete, Mueller active; (5) Moisture sensitivity—Pomona MSL Not Applicable, Mueller MSL 1 (Unlimited).

Q: Are both connectors RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The Pomona 1837 is ROHS3 Compliant. The Mueller BU-PMDP-0 is RoHS Compliant. Both meet environmental and regulatory requirements for RoHS-restricted substance limitations.

Q: What is the operating temperature rating for each connector?

A: The Pomona 1837 is rated to 55°C. The Mueller BU-PMDP-0 does not specify an operating temperature limit in the provided data. Applications with temperature-critical requirements should confirm Mueller's thermal specifications independently.

Q: Does the solderless termination of the Mueller part affect electrical performance?

A: The solderless set screw termination method provides a different connection mechanism than solder. Both methods achieve electrical continuity through beryllium copper contacts. The choice between termination methods depends on application requirements for connection reliability, field serviceability, and installation methodology. No electrical performance degradation is inherent to the solderless design.

Q: Can I use the Mueller part in applications where color coding is critical?

A: The Mueller BU-PMDP-0 is black, while the Pomona 1837 is blue. In systems where connector color serves as a functional identifier or safety indicator, this difference must be evaluated against system specifications and documented in design records.