TE Connectivity 641217-8 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 641217-8 is an 8-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 gold-plated female socket contacts, a closed-end design, and free-hanging in-line mounting with locking ramp fastening.

The 641217-8 is classified as obsolete. Identification of equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to ensure continued availability for maintenance, repair, and new production applications where this connector type is specified.

Substiute Parts

641217-8

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 929641217-8 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-641217-8

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 16443-641217-8 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 641217-8 is determined by strict equivalence across all electrical and mechanical parameters. The substitute part must maintain identical specifications for:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Position count (8)
• Pitch spacing (0.156")
• Row configuration (1 row)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge compatibility (18 AWG)
• Contact finish material and thickness (Gold, 30.0µin)
• Mounting configuration (Free Hanging, In-Line)
• Fastening mechanism (Locking Ramp)
• Series designation (MTA-156)
• Closed-end design

The substitute part 3-641217-8 meets all these criteria and is therefore a direct functional equivalent.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3-641217-8 is the direct substitute for the obsolete 641217-8. Both parts are manufactured by TE Connectivity and share identical electrical and mechanical specifications within the MTA-156 rectangular connector series.

The primary distinction between these parts is product status and regulatory compliance. The 641217-8 is obsolete and carries RoHS non-compliant status with vendor-undefined REACH status. The 3-641217-8 is an active product with ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected designation, making it suitable for applications subject to current environmental and regulatory requirements.

For new designs and ongoing production, the 3-641217-8 is the appropriate selection. For legacy system maintenance where the original 641217-8 specification is required, the 3-641217-8 provides full functional and mechanical compatibility with improved regulatory standing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 641217-8 and 3-641217-8 mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical mechanical specifications including pitch (0.156"), position count (8), mounting type (free-hanging in-line), and fastening mechanism (locking ramp). They are fully interchangeable in applications requiring 8-position MTA-156 receptacle connectors.

Q: Can the 3-641217-8 terminate the same cable types as the 641217-8?

A: Yes. Both connectors use IDC termination and are rated for 18 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. Cable compatibility is identical between the two parts.

Q: What is the difference between the 641217-8 and 3-641217-8 part numbers?

A: The part numbers differ in their prefix designation. The 3-641217-8 represents the active production variant of the same connector design. The base product number 641217 is common to both.

Q: Why is the 641217-8 listed as obsolete?

A: The 641217-8 has been superseded by the 3-641217-8 in TE Connectivity's product line. The newer variant maintains full compatibility while offering improved regulatory compliance status.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: The 641217-8 packaging is not specified in available documentation. The 3-641217-8 is supplied in bulk packaging. Confirm packaging requirements with your procurement specifications.

Q: Can I use the 3-641217-8 in applications originally designed for the 641217-8?

A: Yes. The 3-641217-8 is a direct functional equivalent with identical electrical and mechanical characteristics. It is suitable for all applications where the 641217-8 was originally specified.

Q: What is the contact finish thickness specification?

A: Both connectors feature gold-plated contacts with a finish thickness of 30.0µin (0.76µm), ensuring consistent electrical performance and corrosion resistance.

Q: Are both connectors rated for the same moisture sensitivity level?

A: Yes. Both the 641217-8 and 3-641217-8 carry Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions during storage or handling.