TE Connectivity 643817-6 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 643817-6 is a 6-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 820 pieces available in inventory.

Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical specifications are maintained across connector geometry, contact configuration, termination method, and wire gauge compatibility. Alternative part numbers may be required due to inventory availability, compliance requirements, or manufacturing transitions within the same product family.

Substiute Parts

643817-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 843643817-6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-643817-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 41383-643817-6 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution between the main part 643817-6 and the equivalent part 3-643817-6 is based on strict equivalence of the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Connector type: Receptacle
• Contact type: Female socket
• Number of positions: 6
• Pitch: 0.156" (3.96mm)
• Number of rows: 1
• Contact finish thickness: 80.0µin (2.03µm)

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Cable termination method: IDC
• Wire gauge: 18 AWG
• Wire type: Discrete or ribbon cable
• Mounting type: Free hanging (in-line)
• Fastening type: Locking ramp
• Features: Closed end, polarizing key
• Color: Orange

Regulatory & Classification Parameters:

• Series: MTA-156
• ECCN: EAR99
• HTSUS: 8536.69.8000
• Moisture sensitivity level: 1 (Unlimited)

The substitute part maintains identical mechanical and electrical form-fit-function characteristics. The primary difference is the contact finish specification: the main part features tin-lead plating, while the substitute part features tin plating. Additionally, the substitute part carries RoHS compliance status, whereas the main part is RoHS non-compliant.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For RoHS-Compliant Applications: The substitute part 3-643817-6 is the appropriate selection for designs requiring RoHS compliance. This part maintains all electrical and mechanical specifications of the main part while meeting RoHS regulatory requirements through its tin contact finish specification.

For Legacy or Non-Regulated Applications: The main part 643817-6 with tin-lead contact finish remains suitable for applications without RoHS compliance mandates. Both parts are active products with established supply chains.

Inventory Considerations: The substitute part 3-643817-6 maintains significantly higher inventory levels (4104 pieces) compared to the main part (820 pieces), providing improved availability for procurement planning.

Contact Finish Specification: The transition from tin-lead to tin plating in the substitute part does not alter the electrical performance or mechanical compatibility of the connector. Both contact finishes maintain the specified 80.0µin (2.03µm) thickness and are suitable for IDC termination with 18 AWG cable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 643817-6 and 3-643817-6 connectors mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors maintain identical mechanical specifications including pitch (0.156"), number of positions (6), mounting type (free hanging in-line), and fastening method (locking ramp). They are directly interchangeable in applications where contact finish material is not a design constraint.

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

A: Both tin-lead and tin contact finishes provide equivalent electrical conductivity and contact reliability for IDC termination applications. The primary distinction is regulatory compliance: tin-lead plating is RoHS non-compliant, while tin plating is RoHS compliant. Both finishes maintain the same thickness specification of 80.0µin (2.03µm).

Q: Can I use the 3-643817-6 as a direct replacement for the 643817-6 in existing designs?

A: Yes, the 3-643817-6 is a direct substitute for the 643817-6. All electrical and mechanical parameters are equivalent. The substitute part is suitable for new designs and retrofit applications where RoHS compliance is required or preferred.

Q: Are both parts suitable for ribbon cable and discrete wire termination?

A: Yes. Both the 643817-6 and 3-643817-6 support IDC termination with discrete or ribbon cable at 18 AWG wire gauge. The IDC termination method and wire gauge specifications are identical across both parts.

Q: What is the significance of the polarizing key feature?

A: The polarizing key is a mechanical feature that prevents incorrect connector orientation during mating. Both the main part and substitute part include this feature, ensuring proper alignment and preventing reversed polarity connections in the application circuit.

Q: Do both connectors require special handling for moisture sensitivity?

A: No. Both parts carry Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1, which indicates unlimited shelf life without special moisture control measures. Standard storage conditions are suitable for both connectors.

Q: What is the difference between the base product number 643817 and the full part numbers?

A: The base product number 643817 identifies the connector family. The full part numbers 643817-6 and 3-643817-6 include the position count suffix (-6), specifying the 6-position configuration. Both parts share the same base product number, confirming their equivalence within the MTA-156 series.