TE Connectivity 3-644387-4 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 3-644387-4 is a 4-position rectangular receptacle connector from the MTA-156 series, designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with 18 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. This connector features a tin contact finish, polarizing key, and feed-through capability with a locking ramp fastening mechanism.

The 3-644387-4 is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and support ongoing production and field service requirements for systems utilizing this connector type.

Substiute Parts

3-644387-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 8613-644387-4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644465-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 119453-644465-4 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 3-644387-4 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical and Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (4)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Series designation (MTA-156)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge compatibility (18 AWG)
• Contact finish type (Tin)
• Mounting configuration (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Fastening mechanism (Locking Ramp)
• Functional features (Feed Through, Polarizing Key)

Compliance Parameters:

• RoHS3 compliance status
• Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 1 - Unlimited)

The substitute part 3-644465-4 maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters, ensuring direct functional equivalence for circuit board integration and cable termination applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Substitute: TE Connectivity 3-644465-4

The 3-644465-4 is the direct functional equivalent for the obsolete 3-644387-4. Both parts are manufactured by TE Connectivity and maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters including connector type, position count, pitch, termination method, wire gauge, contact finish, and fastening mechanism.

Compliance and Availability Advantages:

The 3-644465-4 carries Active product status, ensuring ongoing manufacturer support and supply chain availability. Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity ratings, confirming equivalent environmental performance characteristics.

Physical Differentiation:

The substitute part features an orange connector body color compared to the black color of the original part. This color difference is cosmetic and does not affect electrical or mechanical function. The color distinction may serve as a visual identifier during assembly and field service operations.

Supply Consideration:

The 3-644465-4 is available in bulk packaging with significantly higher inventory levels (11,889 pieces) compared to the original part (795 pieces), supporting both new production and replacement applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-644465-4 be used as a direct replacement for the 3-644387-4 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 3-644465-4 maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters. Both connectors are 4-position MTA-156 series receptacles with IDC termination for 18 AWG cable, tin contact finish, locking ramp fastening, and polarizing key features. Direct substitution is supported without design modification.

Q: Does the color difference between the two parts affect compatibility?

A: No. The color difference (black versus orange) is cosmetic and does not impact electrical performance, mechanical fit, or functional operation. Color distinction may be used for assembly identification purposes.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both the 3-644387-4 and 3-644465-4 are ROHS3 compliant and carry MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity ratings, confirming equivalent environmental and regulatory compliance.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference?

A: The 3-644387-4 is classified as obsolete, indicating discontinued manufacturer support. The 3-644465-4 carries Active status, ensuring ongoing availability, technical support, and supply chain continuity for new production and field service applications.

Q: Can these connectors accommodate both discrete and ribbon cable?

A: Yes. Both parts support discrete or ribbon cable termination via IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) method at 18 AWG wire gauge specification.

Q: What is the pitch specification for these connectors?

A: Both connectors operate at 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch, which is the standard spacing for MTA-156 series rectangular connectors.

Q: Are there any packaging differences between the two parts?

A: The 3-644387-4 packaging specification is not defined in available data. The 3-644465-4 is supplied in bulk packaging with higher inventory availability, supporting both production volume and replacement stock requirements.