Amphenol RF 31-2368 TNC Connector Plug Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Amphenol RF 31-2368 is an active TNC connector plug designed for 50-ohm coaxial cable applications. This male pin connector features crimp or solder termination and operates across a frequency range up to 11 GHz, making it suitable for RF and microwave signal transmission in free-hanging inline configurations. The part is RoHS compliant and currently in active production status with 790 units in stock.

Substitute parts become necessary when the primary part experiences supply constraints, when specific cable compatibility requirements differ, or when operational frequency limitations of alternative sources require evaluation against application requirements.

Substiute Parts

31-2368

Amphenol RFIn Stock: 85831-2368 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

73057

Pomona ElectronicsIn Stock: 117473057 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Amphenol RF 31-2368 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Connector style must be TNC
• Connector type must be Plug, Male Pin
• Impedance must be 50 Ohms
• Mounting type must be Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Contact termination must support Crimp (minimum requirement)
• Shield termination must be Crimp
• Fastening type must be Threaded

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Cable group compatibility (RG-59, 59B, 62, 140, 210, Belden 8241, 8263, 8279, 9209)
• Frequency maximum rating (application-dependent)
• Operating temperature range (application-dependent)
• Mating cycle rating (application-dependent)

The Pomona Electronics 73057 meets all primary substitution criteria as a TNC plug connector with 50-ohm impedance, crimp termination, and free-hanging inline mounting. However, frequency capability and cable group compatibility differ and must be evaluated against specific application requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: Amphenol RF 31-2368

The Amphenol RF 31-2368 is the recommended primary choice for new designs and applications. The part maintains active production status, ensuring long-term supply availability. It is RoHS compliant and carries an MSL rating of 1, indicating no moisture sensitivity constraints for storage and handling. The 11 GHz frequency capability supports broadband RF applications, and the extended cable group compatibility (RG-59, 59B, 62, 140, 210, Belden 8241, 8263, 8279, 9209) accommodates diverse cable specifications. The dual termination option (crimp or solder) provides flexibility in assembly processes.

Substitute Selection: Pomona Electronics 73057

The Pomona Electronics 73057 functions as a substitute connector for applications operating at frequencies up to 6 GHz. This part is ROHS3 compliant and supports RG-59 and RG-62 cable groups. The primary limitation is the reduced frequency maximum rating (6 GHz versus 11 GHz) and narrower cable group compatibility. The part is currently listed as obsolete, which may impact future availability and should be considered in long-term supply planning. The Pomona 73057 is suitable only for applications where the 6 GHz frequency ceiling meets operational requirements and where cable compatibility is limited to RG-59 or RG-62 specifications.

Compliance Considerations

Both parts meet RoHS requirements. The Amphenol RF 31-2368 carries RoHS compliance certification, while the Pomona Electronics 73057 carries ROHS3 compliance. Both parts share identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8536.69.4010) classifications, indicating equivalent regulatory treatment for export and tariff purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Pomona Electronics 73057 be used as a direct replacement for the Amphenol RF 31-2368 in all applications?

A: No. While both connectors share the same TNC plug configuration, 50-ohm impedance, and crimp termination, the Pomona 73057 has a maximum frequency rating of 6 GHz compared to the Amphenol 31-2368's 11 GHz capability. Applications requiring frequencies above 6 GHz must use the Amphenol part. Additionally, the Pomona part supports only RG-59 and RG-62 cables, whereas the Amphenol part supports a broader cable group including RG-140, RG-210, and Belden variants.

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

A: The Amphenol RF 31-2368 is compatible with RG-59, 59B, 62, 140, 210, Belden 8241, 8263, 8279, and 9209 cables. The Pomona Electronics 73057 is compatible with RG-59 and RG-62 cables only. If your application uses RG-140, RG-210, or Belden cable variants, the Amphenol part is required.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference between these parts?

A: The Amphenol RF 31-2368 is in active production status, ensuring continued availability and supply chain stability. The Pomona Electronics 73057 is listed as obsolete, meaning production has ended. While current inventory may be available, future procurement of the Pomona part cannot be guaranteed. For new designs and long-term applications, the active Amphenol part is the appropriate choice.

Q: Are both connectors RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The Amphenol RF 31-2368 is RoHS compliant. The Pomona Electronics 73057 is ROHS3 compliant. Both certifications meet RoHS requirements, though they represent different compliance standards. Both parts are suitable for applications requiring RoHS compliance.

Q: What is the difference in termination options between these connectors?

A: The Amphenol RF 31-2368 supports both crimp and solder contact termination, providing assembly flexibility. The Pomona Electronics 73057 supports crimp termination only. If your assembly process requires solder termination, the Amphenol part must be used.

Q: How do the included components differ between these two connectors?

A: The Amphenol RF 31-2368 includes 1 connector, 1 contact, and 1 ferrule. The Pomona Electronics 73057 includes 1 connector, 1 ferrule, and 1 heat shrink. Both packages provide the essential components for connector assembly, but the inclusion of heat shrink in the Pomona package versus the contact in the Amphenol package reflects different assembly methodologies.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level (MSL) and why does it matter?

A: The Amphenol RF 31-2368 carries an MSL rating of 1 (Unlimited), meaning the connector has no moisture sensitivity constraints and can be stored indefinitely without special humidity controls. The Pomona Electronics 73057 carries an MSL rating of Not Applicable, indicating the part does not require moisture sensitivity management. Both parts are suitable for standard storage and handling conditions.

Q: Can these connectors be used interchangeably in existing designs?

A: Interchangeability depends on application frequency requirements and cable specifications. For applications operating at 6 GHz or below using RG-59 or RG-62 cables, the Pomona 73057 can substitute for the Amphenol 31-2368. For applications exceeding 6 GHz or using cable types outside the RG-59/62 range, only the Amphenol part is suitable. Existing designs should be evaluated against these specific parameters before substitution.