TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 644387-6 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity AMP Connectors 644387-6 is a 6 Position Rectangular Receptacle Connector designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with 18 AWG wire. This connector features a tin-lead contact finish and is part of the MTA-156 series, characterized by a 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch and single-row configuration with a polarizing key and feed-through design.

The 644387-6 is classified as obsolete. Identifying 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

644387-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1139644387-6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644387-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 9163-644387-6 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 644387-6 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Receptacle with female socket contacts
• Position Count & Pitch: 6 positions at 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch
• Row Configuration: Single row
• Termination Method: IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact)
• Wire Gauge Compatibility: 18 AWG
• Mechanical Interface: Free hanging in-line mounting with locking ramp fastening and polarizing key
• Physical Appearance: Black color housing

The primary distinction between the main part and substitute parts lies in contact finish material and product status. Substitute parts must maintain identical mechanical and electrical interfaces to ensure direct compatibility with existing mating connectors and cable assemblies.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3-644387-6 is a direct substitute for the obsolete 644387-6. Both parts are manufactured by TE Connectivity AMP Connectors and share identical mechanical and electrical specifications within the MTA-156 series.

Key Distinctions:

The 3-644387-6 differs from the main part in two aspects:

1. Contact Finish Material: The substitute uses tin contact finish, whereas the main part uses tin-lead. Both maintain the same 80.0µin (2.03µm) finish thickness and provide equivalent electrical performance and contact reliability.

2. Regulatory Compliance: The 3-644387-6 is RoHS Compliant, while the 644387-6 is RoHS non-compliant. This distinction is significant for applications subject to RoHS regulations or for new designs requiring compliance with environmental standards.

3. Product Status: The 3-644387-6 is classified as Active, ensuring ongoing availability and support, whereas the 644387-6 is Obsolete.

Both parts are classified as Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited), indicating no special moisture handling requirements during storage or assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-644387-6 be used as a direct replacement for the 644387-6?

A: Yes. The 3-644387-6 is mechanically and electrically compatible with the 644387-6. Both connectors feature identical pitch, position count, mounting configuration, and IDC termination method. The connector will mate with the same plug connectors and accept 18 AWG wire through IDC termination.

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

A: The main part (644387-6) uses tin-lead contact finish, while the substitute (3-644387-6) uses tin finish. Both finishes are applied at 80.0µin (2.03µm) thickness. Tin finish is preferred in modern applications due to RoHS compliance and elimination of lead content. Both finishes provide equivalent electrical conductivity and contact reliability for this connector type.

Q: Why is RoHS compliance important for this connector?

A: RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance restricts the use of lead and other hazardous materials in electrical and electronic equipment. The 3-644387-6 is RoHS Compliant, making it suitable for applications and markets requiring environmental compliance. The 644387-6 is RoHS non-compliant due to its tin-lead contact finish.

Q: Are there any differences in moisture sensitivity between these parts?

A: No. Both the 644387-6 and 3-644387-6 are classified as Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited), indicating no special moisture handling or baking requirements during storage, handling, or assembly.

Q: What wire gauges are compatible with these connectors?

A: Both connectors are designed for 18 AWG wire. The IDC termination method accommodates discrete or ribbon cable of this gauge. Wire gauge compatibility is a critical parameter for connector selection and cannot be altered.

Q: Can these connectors be used with ribbon cable?

A: Yes. Both the 644387-6 and 3-644387-6 support ribbon cable termination through the IDC method, in addition to discrete wire termination. The polarizing key ensures correct cable orientation during assembly.

Q: What is the pitch specification, and why is it important?

A: The pitch is 0.156" (3.96mm), representing the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact positions. This specification determines mechanical compatibility with mating connectors and PCB layouts. Pitch is a non-negotiable parameter for connector substitution.