TE Connectivity 643817-8 Rectangular Connector: Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 643817-8 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 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 709 units in stock.

Identification of equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to address supply chain requirements, compliance mandates, and inventory optimization while maintaining functional and mechanical compatibility within the MTA-156 connector family.

Substiute Parts

643817-8

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 801643817-8 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-643817-8

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 20783-643817-8 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution within the MTA-156 rectangular connector family is determined by strict equivalence across all critical parameters. The following parameters must remain identical for functional and mechanical compatibility:

Critical Parameters (Must Match Exactly):

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (8)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge rating (18 AWG)
• Series designation (MTA-156)
• Mounting configuration (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Fastening mechanism (Locking Ramp)
• Design features (Closed End, Polarizing Key)

Secondary Parameters (May Vary):

• Contact finish material (Tin-Lead vs. Tin)
• RoHS compliance status
• Packaging configuration

The substitute part 3-643817-8 maintains complete equivalence across all critical parameters, differing only in contact finish composition (Tin vs. Tin-Lead) and regulatory compliance classification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Part 643817-8 (Tin-Lead Contact Finish): This configuration is appropriate for applications where RoHS non-compliance is acceptable or where legacy system compatibility requires tin-lead contact materials. The part maintains active production status and is available in current inventory.

Part 3-643817-8 (Tin Contact Finish): This configuration is the appropriate selection for applications requiring ROHS3 compliance. The tin contact finish meets modern regulatory requirements while maintaining identical mechanical and electrical performance across all critical parameters. This part carries higher inventory availability (2047 units) and is recommended for new designs and compliance-driven applications.

Selection Basis:

• Both parts are manufactured by TE Connectivity and remain in active production
• Functional and mechanical compatibility is complete across all critical parameters
• Selection between these parts is determined by regulatory compliance requirements and contact finish material specifications
• Contact finish difference (Tin vs. Tin-Lead) does not affect mechanical fit, pitch alignment, or IDC termination performance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can part 3-643817-8 be used as a direct replacement for 643817-8 in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. Both parts are mechanically and functionally equivalent across all critical parameters including connector type, position count, pitch, mounting configuration, and IDC termination method. The difference in contact finish material (Tin vs. Tin-Lead) does not affect mechanical compatibility or connector performance.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two parts?

A: The primary difference is the contact finish material. Part 643817-8 uses tin-lead plating, while part 3-643817-8 uses tin plating. Additionally, part 3-643817-8 is ROHS3 compliant, whereas part 643817-8 is RoHS non-compliant. Both parts maintain identical contact finish thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm).

Q: Are these parts from the same manufacturer?

A: Yes. Both parts are manufactured by TE Connectivity AMP Connectors and belong to the MTA-156 series.

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

A: Yes. Both parts support IDC termination for discrete or ribbon cable configurations with 18 AWG wire gauge.

Q: What does the polarizing key feature accomplish?

A: The polarizing key prevents incorrect mating orientation, ensuring proper connector alignment during assembly and reducing installation errors.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: Yes. Part 643817-8 packaging is not specified in the documentation, while part 3-643817-8 is supplied in bulk packaging. Verify packaging requirements with your procurement specifications.

Q: Which part should be selected for new product designs?

A: Part 3-643817-8 is recommended for new designs due to ROHS3 compliance status, which aligns with current regulatory requirements and environmental standards.