TE Connectivity 643817-3 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 643817-3 is a 3-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 a tin-lead contact finish, closed-end design with polarizing key, and free-hanging in-line mounting configuration. The part is currently active in production with 890 pieces available in new original inventory stock.

Identification of equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to address supply chain requirements, compliance specifications, and packaging preferences while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility within the MTA-156 connector family.

Substiute Parts

643817-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 999643817-3 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-643817-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 58643-643817-3 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution within the MTA-156 rectangular connector family is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (3)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Pitch (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Wire gauge (18 AWG)
• Cable termination method (IDC)

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Number of rows (1)
• Mounting type (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Fastening type (Locking Ramp)
• Features (Closed End, Polarizing Key)

Material Specifications:

• Contact finish thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm)
• Color (Orange)

The substitute part 3-643817-3 maintains full equivalence across all electrical and mechanical parameters. The primary differences are contact finish composition (tin versus tin-lead) and regulatory compliance status, which do not affect connector interchangeability within the MTA-156 series.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For RoHS-Compliant Applications: Select part number 3-643817-3. This substitute maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility with the original 643817-3 while meeting RoHS compliance requirements. The tin contact finish (versus tin-lead) is compliant with RoHS directives and does not affect connector performance within the MTA-156 series specifications.

For REACH-Compliant Applications: Select part number 3-643817-3. This substitute is REACH Unaffected, whereas the original part is REACH Affected. Both parts are active in production and suitable for new designs.

For Supply Chain Optimization: Part number 3-643817-3 offers significantly higher inventory availability (5800 pieces versus 890 pieces) and bulk packaging, supporting higher-volume procurement requirements.

For Legacy System Maintenance: Part number 643817-3 remains the appropriate selection for systems originally specified with tin-lead contact finish and non-compliant regulatory status.

Both parts are electrically and mechanically interchangeable within the MTA-156 series and support identical IDC termination with 18 AWG discrete or ribbon cable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 643817-3 and 3-643817-3 connectors mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors are 3-position receptacles from the MTA-156 series with identical pitch (0.156"), mounting type (free-hanging in-line), fastening type (locking ramp), and feature set (closed end with polarizing key). They accept the same mating plugs and support identical IDC termination with 18 AWG cable.

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

A: The 643817-3 features a tin-lead contact finish, while the 3-643817-3 features a tin contact finish. Both finishes are applied at 80.0µin (2.03µm) thickness. The tin finish on the 3-643817-3 is RoHS compliant, whereas the tin-lead finish on the 643817-3 is not. Within the MTA-156 connector specifications, both finishes provide equivalent electrical performance.

Q: Can I use the 3-643817-3 as a direct replacement for the 643817-3?

A: Yes, for applications where RoHS compliance is required or preferred. The 3-643817-3 is a direct substitute with identical electrical and mechanical specifications. For applications originally specified with the 643817-3 tin-lead finish, the 3-643817-3 tin finish substitute is fully compatible.

Q: What is the difference in packaging between these two parts?

A: The 643817-3 is supplied in standard packaging, while the 3-643817-3 is supplied in bulk packaging. Bulk packaging is suitable for high-volume assembly operations and offers cost advantages for larger orders.

Q: Are both parts currently in production?

A: Yes. Both the 643817-3 and 3-643817-3 are active products in the TE Connectivity AMP Connectors portfolio. The 3-643817-3 has higher inventory availability (5800 pieces) compared to the 643817-3 (890 pieces).

Q: Which part should I specify for a new design?

A: For new designs, specify the 3-643817-3 if RoHS compliance is a requirement. If legacy tin-lead specifications are mandated, specify the 643817-3. Both parts are active and suitable for production use.

Q: Do these connectors support both discrete and ribbon cable termination?

A: Yes. Both the 643817-3 and 3-643817-3 support IDC termination with discrete or ribbon cable at 18 AWG wire gauge.