TE Connectivity 644462-6 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 644462-6 is a 6-position rectangular receptacle connector from the MTA-156 series, designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with 20 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. This connector features a closed end design with polarizing key and tin-lead contact finish. The part is currently classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent alternatives to maintain design continuity and ensure supply chain availability for new production and repair applications.

Substiute Parts

644462-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 834644462-6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644462-6

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 8143-644462-6 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the obsolete 644462-6 is based on electrical and mechanical compatibility within the MTA-156 connector family. The substitute part 3-644462-6 maintains identical specifications across all critical parameters that determine functional interchangeability:

Key Substitution Parameters:

• Series designation (MTA-156)
• Connector type and contact configuration (6-position receptacle, female socket)
• Pitch and row spacing (0.156" single row)
• Mounting method (free hanging in-line)
• Cable termination technology (IDC)
• Wire gauge compatibility (20 AWG)
• Mechanical features (closed end, polarizing key)
• Contact finish thickness (80.0µin)

The primary distinction between the main part and substitute is the contact finish composition and product status. The substitute part 3-644462-6 uses tin finish instead of tin-lead and carries active product status with RoHS compliance certification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The substitute part 3-644462-6 is the direct equivalent for the obsolete 644462-6 within the MTA-156 connector family. Selection of the substitute part is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The main part 644462-6 carries obsolete status, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited availability. The substitute 3-644462-6 maintains active product status, ensuring continued supply chain access and manufacturing support.

Regulatory Compliance: The substitute part 3-644462-6 is RoHS compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for electronic component manufacturing and distribution. The main part is RoHS non-compliant due to its tin-lead contact finish composition.

Functional Equivalence: Both parts maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical parameters including connector type, position count, pitch, mounting method, cable termination technology, and wire gauge compatibility. The parts are mechanically and electrically interchangeable within the MTA-156 series.

Contact Finish Consideration: The substitute part uses tin finish instead of tin-lead. Both finishes provide equivalent contact resistance and durability characteristics at the specified 80.0µin thickness. The tin finish of the substitute part eliminates lead content, aligning with RoHS compliance requirements.

For new designs and production applications, the substitute part 3-644462-6 is the appropriate selection. For legacy system maintenance where the original tin-lead finish is specifically required, the main part 644462-6 remains available in current inventory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 644462-6 and 3-644462-6 mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both parts are 6-position receptacle connectors from the MTA-156 series with identical pitch (0.156"), mounting type (free hanging in-line), and mechanical features (closed end, polarizing key). They mate with identical MTA-156 plug connectors and accept the same 20 AWG discrete or ribbon cable.

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

A: The main part 644462-6 uses tin-lead finish, while the substitute 3-644462-6 uses tin finish. Both finishes are applied at 80.0µin thickness and provide equivalent electrical contact resistance and durability. The tin finish eliminates lead content, enabling RoHS compliance.

Q: Why is the main part 644462-6 classified as obsolete?

A: The 644462-6 is obsolete due to its tin-lead contact finish, which does not meet current RoHS compliance requirements. TE Connectivity has transitioned the MTA-156 6-position receptacle line to the tin-finished 3-644462-6 variant to align with environmental regulations and manufacturing standards.

Q: Can I use the 3-644462-6 substitute in existing designs originally specified for 644462-6?

A: Yes. The substitute part 3-644462-6 is functionally equivalent and maintains identical mechanical and electrical specifications. It is suitable for direct replacement in existing designs without modification to PCB layouts, mating connectors, or cable assemblies.

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

A: The main part 644462-6 packaging is not specified in available documentation. The substitute part 3-644462-6 is supplied in bulk packaging. Contact the supplier for specific packaging requirements or custom packaging options.

Q: Are both parts suitable for IDC termination with 20 AWG cable?

A: Yes. Both the 644462-6 and 3-644462-6 are designed for IDC termination with 20 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. The IDC contact design and wire gauge specifications are identical between both parts.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for these connectors?

A: Both parts carry MSL 1 (Unlimited) rating, indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions. These connectors do not require special moisture control during storage, handling, or assembly.