TE Connectivity 3-644381-8 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 3-644381-8 is an 8-position rectangular receptacle connector from the MTA-156 series, designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with 18 AWG wire. This connector features a tin contact finish, closed-end design, and polarizing key for secure mating. The part is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent alternatives to maintain supply chain continuity for applications requiring this connector specification.

Substiute Parts

3-644381-8

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 11573-644381-8 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-643817-8

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 20783-643817-8 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the obsolete 3-644381-8 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Number of positions (8)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Number of rows (1)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge compatibility (18 AWG)
• Contact finish (Tin)

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Mounting type (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Fastening type (Locking Ramp)
• Closed-end design with polarizing key

Compliance Parameters:

• RoHS3 compliance
• MSL rating (1 - Unlimited)

The substitute part 3-643817-8 maintains full equivalence across all electrical, mechanical, and compliance parameters. The primary distinction is product status (active versus obsolete) and packaging configuration, with no functional or dimensional differences affecting connector performance or interchangeability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3-643817-8 is a direct functional equivalent to the obsolete 3-644381-8. Selection of the substitute part is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The 3-643817-8 maintains active product status with TE Connectivity, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support. The 3-644381-8 is classified as obsolete, presenting supply chain risk for new designs or production replenishment.

Compliance Certification: Both parts maintain identical ROHS3 compliance and MSL rating (1 - Unlimited), confirming equivalent environmental and moisture handling characteristics.

Electrical and Mechanical Equivalence: All critical connector parameters—pitch, contact configuration, termination method, wire gauge compatibility, and fastening mechanism—are identical between the main part and substitute. This ensures direct interchangeability in existing circuit designs and cable assemblies.

Packaging Consideration: The substitute part is supplied in bulk packaging, which may require adjustment to procurement and inventory management procedures compared to the original packaging specification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-643817-8 be used as a direct replacement for the 3-644381-8 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 3-643817-8 is electrically and mechanically equivalent to the 3-644381-8 across all functional parameters. Both connectors share identical pitch (0.156"), position count (8), contact type (female socket), termination method (IDC), wire gauge (18 AWG), and fastening mechanism (locking ramp). Direct substitution is supported without design modification.

Q: What is the difference between these two parts?

A: The primary differences are product status and color. The 3-644381-8 is obsolete (black), while the 3-643817-8 is active (orange). Both parts are from the MTA-156 series and share identical electrical and mechanical specifications. The color difference is cosmetic and does not affect connector function or performance.

Q: Are there any compliance or certification differences between these parts?

A: No. Both parts maintain identical ROHS3 compliance status and MSL rating (1 - Unlimited). Environmental and moisture sensitivity characteristics are equivalent.

Q: Does the packaging difference affect connector performance?

A: No. The packaging difference (bulk for the substitute part) affects only procurement, storage, and handling procedures. Connector performance, electrical characteristics, and mechanical function remain identical regardless of packaging configuration.

Q: Is the 3-643817-8 suitable for new production designs?

A: Yes. The active product status of the 3-643817-8 ensures manufacturing continuity and supply chain reliability for new designs. This part is the recommended selection for applications requiring the MTA-156 8-position receptacle connector with IDC termination and 18 AWG wire compatibility.

Q: Can these connectors be used with both discrete and ribbon cable?

A: Yes. Both the 3-644381-8 and 3-643817-8 support IDC termination with discrete or ribbon cable at 18 AWG wire gauge.