TE Connectivity 644461-4 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 644461-4 is a 4-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 1187 pieces available in inventory. Substitute parts are identified to address specific compliance requirements, packaging preferences, or inventory availability while maintaining functional and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

644461-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1284644461-4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644461-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 9173-644461-4 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TE Connectivity 644461-4 is determined by strict equivalence across all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. The following parameters must remain identical for a part to function as a direct substitute:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (4)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Series designation (MTA-156)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge rating (18 AWG)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Row configuration (1 row)
• Mounting style (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Mechanical features (Closed End, Polarizing Key)
• Contact finish thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm)

Variations in packaging format, contact finish material composition (tin versus tin-lead), RoHS compliance status, and REACH classification do not affect functional or mechanical interchangeability when all critical parameters are maintained. The identified substitute part maintains complete equivalence across all critical parameters while offering alternative compliance and packaging options.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Part 644461-4 (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 offers the highest current inventory availability at 1187 pieces.

Part 3-644461-4 (Tin Contact Finish, ROHS3 Compliant): This substitute part is designated for applications requiring ROHS3 compliance. The tin contact finish replaces the tin-lead composition while maintaining identical contact finish thickness and all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. This part is suitable for new designs targeting RoHS-compliant supply chains and offers bulk packaging options. Current inventory is 875 pieces.

Both parts share identical functional specifications across all critical parameters. Selection between these parts depends on regulatory compliance requirements and packaging format preferences rather than electrical or mechanical performance differences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 3-644461-4 be used as a direct replacement for 644461-4 in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. Both parts maintain identical specifications across all critical parameters including connector type, position count, pitch, termination method, wire gauge, mounting configuration, and mechanical features. The primary difference is the contact finish material (tin versus tin-lead) and RoHS compliance status, which do not affect mechanical or electrical interchangeability.

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

A: Both contact finishes are applied at identical thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm). The material composition differs, with tin-lead containing lead and tin containing only tin. This distinction affects regulatory compliance classification rather than connector performance in the specified application.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: The main part 644461-4 packaging is not specified in the available data. The substitute part 3-644461-4 is supplied in bulk packaging format. Packaging differences do not affect connector functionality or mechanical compatibility.

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

A: Selection depends on regulatory requirements. For designs requiring ROHS3 compliance, specify 3-644461-4. For applications where RoHS compliance is not required, either part is functionally equivalent. Both parts maintain active production status.

Q: Are the electrical performance characteristics identical between these parts?

A: Yes. Both parts are rated for 18 AWG wire, feature identical contact finish thickness, and support the same IDC termination method. Electrical performance is equivalent across all specified parameters.

Q: What is the significance of the base product number 644461?

A: The base product number 644461 identifies the core connector design. The suffix "-4" designates the 4-position configuration. Both substitute parts share this base design, confirming their functional equivalence.

Q: Can these connectors be used with both discrete and ribbon cable?

A: Yes. Both parts support discrete or ribbon cable termination via IDC method at 18 AWG wire gauge.