TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 640861-3 Card Edge Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 640861-3 is a 3-position female card edge connector from the MTA-156 series, designed for single-edge applications with 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch spacing. This connector features IDC termination, tin-lead contact finish, and operates across the temperature range of -55°C to 105°C. The part is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent alternatives that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility for continued system support and new production applications.

Substiute Parts

640861-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 791640861-3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-640861-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 7803-640861-3 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 640861-3 connector is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters: series designation (MTA-156), number of positions (3), gender (female), pitch spacing (0.156"), card type (single edge), card thickness (0.062"), termination method (IDC), operating temperature range (-55°C to 105°C), contact material (copper alloy), and insulation material (polyester thermoplastic). The substitute part 3-640861-3 maintains identical specifications across all these parameters, with the primary distinction being the contact finish composition and product status classification. Both parts share the same base product number (640861) and are manufactured by TE Connectivity AMP Connectors within the same product family.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The substitute part 3-640861-3 is the direct equivalent for the obsolete 640861-3 connector. Selection of the substitute part is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The 640861-3 is classified as obsolete, while the 3-640861-3 maintains active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support.

Regulatory Compliance: The 3-640861-3 achieves RoHS compliance, whereas the 640861-3 is RoHS non-compliant. This distinction is significant for applications subject to RoHS directives and environmental regulations.

Contact Finish Composition: The primary technical difference between the parts is the contact finish specification. The 640861-3 features tin-lead plating, while the 3-640861-3 uses tin plating. Both finishes maintain the same thickness specification (80.0µin / 2.03µm) and preserve electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Electrical and Mechanical Equivalence: All critical parameters determining connector functionality remain identical between the two parts, including pitch, position count, termination method, operating temperature range, and insulation material. The connectors are mechanically and electrically interchangeable.

For new designs and production applications, the 3-640861-3 is the appropriate selection. For legacy system maintenance where the original 640861-3 is no longer available, the 3-640861-3 provides full functional equivalence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 640861-3 and 3-640861-3 connectors mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical mechanical specifications including pitch (0.156"), position count (3), card thickness (0.062"), mounting type (free hanging in-line), and physical dimensions. They are mechanically interchangeable in all applications.

Q: What is the difference between tin-lead and tin contact finishes in these connectors?

A: The 640861-3 uses tin-lead plating while the 3-640861-3 uses tin plating. Both finishes are applied to the same thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm) and provide equivalent electrical performance. The tin finish in the 3-640861-3 reflects RoHS compliance requirements that restrict lead content in electronic components.

Q: Can I use the 3-640861-3 as a direct replacement for the obsolete 640861-3?

A: Yes. The 3-640861-3 is the direct active equivalent of the 640861-3. All electrical parameters, mechanical dimensions, and functional specifications are identical. The substitute part maintains the same series designation (MTA-156), base product number (640861), and connector architecture.

Q: What is the significance of the RoHS compliance difference between these parts?

A: The 3-640861-3 is RoHS compliant, meaning it meets restrictions on hazardous substances including lead. The 640861-3 is RoHS non-compliant due to its tin-lead contact finish. For applications subject to RoHS directives or environmental regulations, the 3-640861-3 is the required selection.

Q: Are there any electrical performance differences between the two connectors?

A: No. Both connectors feature identical contact material (copper alloy), contact finish thickness (80.0µin), operating temperature range (-55°C to 105°C), and termination method (IDC). Electrical performance characteristics are equivalent.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for these connectors?

A: Both the 640861-3 and 3-640861-3 operate across the temperature range of -55°C to 105°C, providing performance stability across industrial and commercial applications.

Q: How does the IDC termination method function in these connectors?

A: IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination allows direct connection to flat cable without stripping insulation. The connector contacts pierce the cable insulation, establishing electrical connection while maintaining insulation integrity around the contact point.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for these connectors?

A: Both connectors have a Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) of 1, classified as unlimited. This indicates minimal moisture sensitivity and no special storage or handling requirements related to moisture exposure.