TE Connectivity 640431-6 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 640431-6 is a 6-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 tin-lead contact finish and is classified as a free-hanging, in-line mounted component with closed-end design. The part is currently active in production with 720 pieces available in new original inventory.

Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical parameters are maintained across connector specifications. Alternative part numbers may be required due to inventory availability, packaging format changes, or compliance requirement updates.

Substiute Parts

640431-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 789640431-6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-640431-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 12463-640431-6 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TE Connectivity 640431-6 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (6)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge rating (18 AWG)
• Wire type compatibility (Discrete or Ribbon Cable)

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Mounting type (Free Hanging, In-Line)
• Number of rows (1)
• Contact finish thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm)
• Closed-end design feature

Environmental & Regulatory Parameters:

• Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 1)
• Series designation (MTA-156)

The substitute part 3-640431-6 maintains full equivalence across all electrical and mechanical parameters. Differences exist only in contact finish material composition and regulatory compliance status, which do not affect functional interchangeability in applications where the specified parameters are required.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Part 640431-6 (Tin-Lead Contact Finish): This part is classified as RoHS non-compliant and contains lead in the contact finish. Selection of this part is appropriate for applications where RoHS compliance is not a regulatory requirement or where legacy system compatibility with tin-lead finishes is specified. The part maintains active production status and is available in current inventory.

Part 3-640431-6 (Tin Contact Finish): This part is ROHS3 compliant and uses tin contact finish without lead content. Selection of this part is appropriate for applications subject to RoHS regulations, including EU market applications and industries with environmental compliance mandates. The substitute part provides higher inventory availability (1212 pieces versus 720 pieces) and maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications. Bulk packaging format is available for this variant.

Both parts are functionally equivalent for IDC termination applications requiring 6-position, 0.156-inch pitch receptacle connectors rated for 18 AWG cable. Selection between the two parts should be based on regulatory compliance requirements and packaging needs specific to the application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 3-640431-6 be used as a direct replacement for 640431-6 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 3-640431-6 maintains full electrical and mechanical equivalence with 640431-6 across all critical parameters including connector type, position count, pitch, contact type, IDC termination method, wire gauge, mounting configuration, and contact finish thickness. The only functional difference is the contact finish material (tin versus tin-lead) and RoHS compliance status. Designs requiring RoHS compliance should transition to 3-640431-6.

Q: What is the significance of the contact finish difference between tin-lead and tin?

A: The contact finish material affects regulatory compliance classification and environmental considerations. Tin-lead finishes (640431-6) are RoHS non-compliant and contain lead. Tin finishes (3-640431-6) are ROHS3 compliant and lead-free. Both finishes provide equivalent electrical performance and contact reliability at the specified 80.0µin (2.03µm) thickness. Selection depends on regulatory requirements applicable to the end application.

Q: Are the packaging differences between standard and bulk formats significant for component selection?

A: Packaging format differences do not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility. The standard packaging format for 640431-6 and bulk packaging format for 3-640431-6 are organizational variations only. Component performance and interchangeability remain identical. Packaging selection should be based on procurement quantity requirements and inventory management practices.

Q: What parameters must remain constant for substitution eligibility?

A: Substitution eligibility requires equivalence across connector type (receptacle), position count (6), pitch (0.156"), contact type (female socket), cable termination method (IDC), wire gauge (18 AWG), wire type (discrete or ribbon cable), mounting type (free hanging in-line), row configuration (1 row), contact finish thickness (80.0µin), and closed-end design feature. Any deviation from these parameters disqualifies a part as a direct substitute.

Q: Is the MTA-156 series designation important for substitution?

A: Yes. The MTA-156 series designation indicates the connector family and establishes compatibility with mating connectors and cable assemblies designed for this series. Both the main part and substitute part belong to the MTA-156 series, ensuring compatibility with existing MTA-156 system designs and components.

Q: What does IDC termination mean and why is it critical for substitution?

A: IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination is a cable connection method where the connector contact pierces the cable insulation without requiring prior stripping of the wire. This termination method is critical for substitution because it determines compatibility with specific cable assembly equipment and processes. Both parts use identical IDC termination, ensuring process compatibility.

Q: Can these connectors be used with wire gauges other than 18 AWG?

A: No. Both 640431-6 and 3-640431-6 are rated specifically for 18 AWG wire. Using wire gauges outside this specification violates the connector design parameters and is not permitted. Connectors rated for different wire gauges require different part numbers within the MTA-156 series.