TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 641218-4 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 641218-4 is a 4 Position Rectangular Receptacle Connector with IDC termination and gold plating, designed for discrete or ribbon cable applications at 20 AWG wire gauge. This connector belongs to the MTA-156 series and features a 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch with free hanging in-line mounting and locking ramp fastening.

The 641218-4 carries an obsolete product status. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to ensure continued availability for maintenance, repair, and new production applications where this connector specification is required.

Substiute Parts

641218-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1003641218-4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-641218-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 12123-641218-4 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 641218-4 is determined by strict equivalence across all electrical and mechanical parameters. The following criteria establish valid substitutes:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Connector Type: Receptacle
• Contact Type: Female Socket
• Number of Positions: 4
• Pitch: 0.156" (3.96mm)
• Number of Rows: 1
• Mounting Type: Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Cable Termination: IDC
• Wire Gauge: 20 AWG
• Contact Finish: Gold
• Contact Finish Thickness: 30.0µin (0.76µm)
• Features: Closed End
• Series: MTA-156

The substitute part 3-641218-4 maintains complete electrical and mechanical compatibility with the original 641218-4 specification. Both parts are manufactured by TE Connectivity AMP Connectors and share identical functional parameters. The primary distinction is product status: the original part is obsolete while the substitute is active, and packaging differs between the two variants.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3-641218-4 is the direct functional equivalent to the obsolete 641218-4. Both parts maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications within the MTA-156 rectangular connector series.

Product Status Consideration: The original 641218-4 is classified as obsolete, which restricts long-term availability and supply chain reliability. The substitute part 3-641218-4 carries active product status, ensuring continued manufacturing support and availability for current and future applications.

Compliance Distinction: The substitute part 3-641218-4 is RoHS Compliant, whereas the original 641218-4 is RoHS non-compliant. This compliance difference is significant for applications subject to RoHS regulations or customer requirements mandating RoHS-compliant components.

Both parts share identical moisture sensitivity classification (MSL 1 - Unlimited), export classification (EAR99), and tariff coding (HTSUS 8536.69.8000), indicating equivalent handling and regulatory treatment.

For new designs, maintenance applications, or production requiring RoHS compliance, the 3-641218-4 substitute is the appropriate selection. For legacy systems where RoHS non-compliance is acceptable and the original part remains available, either part functions identically from an electrical and mechanical standpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-641218-4 be used as a direct replacement for the 641218-4?

A: Yes. The 3-641218-4 is electrically and mechanically equivalent to the 641218-4. Both connectors share identical specifications for connector type, contact configuration, pitch, termination method, wire gauge, and contact finish. The parts are interchangeable in applications where the functional requirements match the specified parameters.

Q: What is the difference between the 641218-4 and 3-641218-4?

A: The primary differences are product status and RoHS compliance. The 641218-4 is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant, while the 3-641218-4 is active and RoHS Compliant. Packaging also differs: the original uses standard packaging while the substitute uses bulk packaging. All electrical and mechanical parameters are identical.

Q: Why is the 641218-4 listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the manufacturer has discontinued active production and support for this part number. The 3-641218-4 substitute provides continued access to equivalent functionality through an active product line.

Q: Does the RoHS compliance difference affect connector performance?

A: RoHS compliance relates to material composition and environmental regulations, not electrical or mechanical performance. Both parts function identically in circuit applications. RoHS compliance becomes relevant when regulatory requirements or customer specifications mandate RoHS-compliant components.

Q: Are the connectors compatible with the same mating plugs?

A: Yes. Both the 641218-4 and 3-641218-4 are receptacle connectors within the MTA-156 series with identical pitch (0.156"), position count (4), and mounting configuration. They mate with the same MTA-156 series plug connectors.

Q: What does IDC termination mean?

A: IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination allows direct connection to discrete or ribbon cable without stripping insulation. The connector pierces the cable insulation to establish electrical contact. Both parts support this termination method for 20 AWG wire.

Q: Can these connectors be used with ribbon cable?

A: Yes. Both the 641218-4 and 3-641218-4 support discrete or ribbon cable applications at 20 AWG wire gauge through IDC termination.

Q: What is the significance of the gold contact finish?

A: Gold plating (30.0µin thickness) provides corrosion resistance and reliable electrical contact over the connector's operational life. Both parts feature identical gold contact finish specifications.

Q: Is there a difference in availability between the two parts?

A: The 3-641218-4 carries active product status with higher reported inventory (1169 pcs), while the 641218-4 is obsolete with limited remaining stock (970 pcs). For ongoing supply requirements, the 3-641218-4 is the preferred selection.