TE Connectivity 640606-6 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 640606-6 is a 6-position rectangular receptacle connector from the MTA-156 series, designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with 22 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. This connector features tin-lead contact finish and is classified as obsolete product status.

Due to its obsolete classification, locating direct inventory of the 640606-6 may present supply chain challenges. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts ensures design continuity and maintains system compatibility while accommodating current manufacturing and compliance requirements.

Substiute Parts

640606-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 917640606-6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-640606-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 9733-640606-6 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 640606-6 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Position Count: Receptacle configuration with 6 positions
• Pitch & Row Configuration: 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch, single-row layout
• Contact Type & Gender: Female socket contacts
• Cable Termination Method: IDC termination technology
• Wire Gauge Compatibility: 22 AWG rated capacity
• Wire Type Support: Discrete or ribbon cable accommodation
• Mounting Configuration: Free hanging in-line mounting
• Feed Through Capability: Required feature for signal pass-through applications

The substitute part 3-640606-6 maintains full equivalence across all mechanical and electrical parameters listed above. Differences in contact finish material (tin versus tin-lead) and product status (active versus obsolete) do not affect functional interchangeability within the specified parameter set.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Substitute: 3-640606-6

The 3-640606-6 is the direct functional equivalent of the 640606-6 and is the recommended substitute for new designs and component replacement applications.

Justification:

1. Product Status: The 3-640606-6 maintains active product status, ensuring ongoing availability and manufacturing support. The 640606-6 is classified as obsolete, creating supply chain risk.

2. Compliance Posture: The 3-640606-6 is RoHS compliant, aligning with current regulatory requirements and industry standards. The 640606-6 is RoHS non-compliant, which may restrict use in regulated applications and markets.

3. Contact Finish Specification: The 3-640606-6 uses tin contact finish versus the tin-lead finish of the 640606-6. Both finishes maintain the same contact finish thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm) and deliver equivalent electrical performance and reliability within the specified parameter set.

4. Mechanical & Electrical Equivalence: All critical parameters—connector type, position count, pitch, row configuration, contact type, termination method, wire gauge, mounting type, and feed-through capability—are identical between the two parts.

5. Packaging & Inventory: The 3-640606-6 is available in bulk packaging with higher inventory levels (937 pcs), supporting production requirements and reducing lead times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-640606-6 be used as a direct replacement for the 640606-6 in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. The 3-640606-6 is mechanically and electrically equivalent to the 640606-6 across all specified parameters. Both connectors are 6-position receptacles with 0.156" pitch, IDC termination for 22 AWG cable, and feed-through capability. The parts are interchangeable within the MTA-156 series.

Q: What is the difference between the tin-lead finish on the 640606-6 and the tin finish on the 3-640606-6?

A: Both finishes provide equivalent contact performance and reliability. The contact finish thickness is identical at 80.0µin (2.03µm). The primary difference is regulatory compliance: tin finish supports RoHS compliance, while tin-lead does not. For new designs and regulated applications, the tin finish of the 3-640606-6 is preferred.

Q: Why is the 640606-6 listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the part is no longer in active production. The 3-640606-6 is the active successor part within the MTA-156 series and is the recommended choice for ongoing supply and new designs.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns when substituting the 3-640606-6 for the 640606-6?

A: No compatibility concerns exist. Both parts share identical mechanical dimensions, electrical ratings, and functional specifications. The connectors mate with the same plug contacts and support the same cable types and gauges.

Q: What is the significance of the RoHS compliance difference?

A: RoHS compliance restricts the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The 3-640606-6 is RoHS compliant, making it suitable for applications subject to RoHS regulations. The 640606-6 is non-compliant and may not be acceptable in regulated markets or applications with RoHS requirements.

Q: Can both parts be used in the same circuit design?

A: Yes. Both the 640606-6 and 3-640606-6 are functionally equivalent and can be used interchangeably in circuit designs. However, for new designs, the 3-640606-6 is recommended due to active product status and RoHS compliance.

Q: What does "Feed Through" mean in the connector specification?

A: Feed Through indicates the connector supports signal pass-through capability, allowing signals to be transmitted through the connector without interruption. This is a standard feature of both the 640606-6 and 3-640606-6.

Q: Is the packaging difference between the two parts significant?

A: The 640606-6 packaging is unspecified, while the 3-640606-6 is supplied in bulk packaging. Bulk packaging typically supports higher-volume production and may offer cost advantages. For component selection, packaging does not affect functional compatibility.