MEC Switches 3CTL6 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MEC Switches 3CTL6 is a tactile switch with SPST-NO (Single Pole Single Throw - Normally Open) circuit configuration, rated for 0.05A at 24VDC. This component features top actuation, through-hole mounting, and sealed construction with IP67 ingress protection. The 3CTL6 is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute parts essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications requiring equivalent electrical and mechanical performance.

Substiute Parts

3CTL6

MEC SwitchesIn Stock: 12593CTL6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3CTH9G

APEM Inc.In Stock: 10723CTH9G Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 3CTL6 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Electrical Performance: Circuit configuration (SPST-NO), contact rating (0.05A @ 24VDC), and switch function (Off-Mom) must remain identical
• Mechanical Compatibility: Mounting type (through hole), actuator orientation (top actuated), outline dimensions (10.10mm x 10.10mm), actuator height (6.40mm), and switch travel (1.00mm) must match for PCB integration
• Environmental Specifications: Ingress protection (IP67), operating temperature range, and sealed construction with flux protection must be maintained
• Reliability: Mechanical life rating (10,000,000 cycles) and operating force (300gf) must be equivalent
• Regulatory Compliance: RoHS3 compliance and MSL rating (1) must be preserved

The APEM Inc. 3CTH9G meets all these criteria and qualifies as a direct substitute for the obsolete 3CTL6.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The APEM Inc. 3CTH9G is the qualified substitute for the obsolete MEC Switches 3CTL6. Both components maintain identical electrical ratings, mechanical dimensions, and environmental specifications required for direct PCB replacement.

The 3CTH9G offers an extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 160°C versus -40°C to 115°C), providing enhanced thermal performance for applications requiring operation at elevated temperatures. The actuator material differs (PPS versus PBT), which represents an improvement in chemical resistance and thermal stability while maintaining mechanical equivalence.

Both parts carry ROHS3 compliance and MSL rating 1, ensuring regulatory alignment and moisture handling compatibility. The active product status of the 3CTH9G ensures ongoing availability and supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete 3CTL6.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3CTH9G be used as a direct replacement for the 3CTL6 on existing PCBs?

A: Yes. The 3CTH9G maintains identical outline dimensions (10.10mm x 10.10mm), actuator height (6.40mm), and through-hole termination style, enabling direct PCB substitution without layout modifications.

Q: Are the electrical specifications identical between these parts?

A: Yes. Both components feature SPST-NO circuit configuration with 0.05A @ 24VDC contact rating and Off-Mom switch function. Electrical performance is equivalent.

Q: What is the difference in actuator material, and does it affect compatibility?

A: The 3CTL6 uses polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) while the 3CTH9G uses polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). PPS offers superior chemical resistance and thermal stability. This material change does not affect mechanical or electrical compatibility; it represents a performance enhancement.

Q: Does the extended temperature range of the 3CTH9G (-40°C to 160°C) create any compatibility issues?

A: No. The extended range is a superset of the original 3CTL6 specification (-40°C to 115°C). Applications operating within the original temperature range experience no adverse effects.

Q: Are packaging and moisture sensitivity considerations the same?

A: Both parts carry MSL rating 1 (Unlimited), indicating identical moisture handling requirements. The 3CTH9G is supplied in tray packaging, which is standard for this component category.

Q: What regulatory certifications apply to the 3CTH9G?

A: The 3CTH9G maintains ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status, matching the regulatory profile of the 3CTL6.