Switchcraft 245 Mono 6.35mm Barrel Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Switchcraft 245 is a 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4") mono headphone phone plug connector with screw termination, designed for free-hanging in-line applications. This connector features 2 conductors and 2 contacts with nickel-plated brass contacts and copper alloy body construction. The part is currently obsolete, with 902 units available in original stock. Due to its obsolete status, identifying active equivalent parts is essential for ongoing design support and component procurement.

Substiute Parts

245

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 917245 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

245X

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 994245X Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Switchcraft 245 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector type: Phone Plug (male gender)
• Mating diameter: 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4") headphone standard
• Signal lines: Mono configuration
• Number of positions/contacts: 2 conductors, 2 contacts
• Mounting type: Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Termination method: Screw
• Shielding: Unshielded
• Mating length/depth: 1.188" (30.20mm)
• Contact material plating: Nickel
• Body material: Copper Alloy
• Housing material: Plastic

The Switchcraft 245X meets all substitution criteria and is classified as a direct equivalent. Both parts share identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters. The primary distinction is product status: the 245 is obsolete while the 245X is active, and the 245X achieves RoHS3 compliance whereas the 245 is RoHS non-compliant.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Switchcraft 245X is the direct equivalent for the obsolete Switchcraft 245. Both connectors are electrically and mechanically identical across all critical parameters, ensuring drop-in compatibility in existing designs.

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

For new designs or long-term production: The Switchcraft 245X is the appropriate choice due to its active product status and RoHS3 compliance. This ensures ongoing manufacturer support, availability, and regulatory alignment with current environmental standards.

For legacy system maintenance or existing inventory utilization: The Switchcraft 245 remains viable if immediate component availability is required and RoHS compliance is not a design constraint. However, future procurement should transition to the 245X to avoid obsolescence-related supply chain disruptions.

Both parts carry identical REACH Unaffected and EAR99 ECCN classifications, indicating equivalent regulatory compliance in these categories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Switchcraft 245X be used as a direct replacement for the Switchcraft 245?

A: Yes. The 245X is a direct equivalent. All electrical and mechanical parameters are identical, including connector type, mating diameter, signal configuration, termination method, and physical dimensions. The 245X is a pin-compatible, form-factor compatible substitute.

Q: What is the primary difference between the Switchcraft 245 and 245X?

A: The 245X is the active production version of the 245. The main differences are product status (245 is obsolete; 245X is active) and RoHS compliance (245 is non-compliant; 245X is RoHS3 compliant). Electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns when substituting the 245X for the 245?

A: No compatibility concerns exist. Both connectors feature identical mating diameter (6.35mm), contact configuration (2 conductors, 2 contacts), termination method (screw), and physical dimensions (1.188" mating depth). They are fully interchangeable in all applications.

Q: Does the RoHS3 compliance of the 245X affect its electrical performance compared to the 245?

A: No. RoHS3 compliance is a material composition and manufacturing standard, not an electrical specification. Both parts maintain identical electrical characteristics and performance parameters.

Q: What is the cable opening specification for both connectors?

A: The Switchcraft 245 specifies a cable opening of 0.297" (7.54mm). This parameter is not provided for the 245X in the available data; however, as a direct equivalent, the 245X is designed to accommodate the same cable diameter range.

Q: Are both connectors available in the same body colors?

A: Yes. Both the Switchcraft 245 and 245X are available in Silver and Red body colors.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for these connectors?

A: Both connectors carry an MSL rating of 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions for storage or handling.