TE Connectivity 644465-4 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 644465-4 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, polarizing key, and feed-through capability in a free-hanging in-line configuration. The part is currently active in production with 987 pieces available in new original inventory.

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

Substiute Parts

644465-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1000644465-4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644465-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 119453-644465-4 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution within the MTA-156 rectangular connector family is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector Configuration: Receptacle type with 4 positions at 0.156" pitch in a single row
• Contact Interface: Female socket contacts with IDC termination capability
• Cable Compatibility: 18 AWG wire gauge for discrete or ribbon cable
• Mechanical Interface: Free-hanging in-line mounting with locking ramp fastening
• Contact Geometry: Identical contact finish thickness of 80.0µin (2.03µm)
• Functional Features: Feed-through and polarizing key present on all equivalent parts

The substitute part 3-644465-4 maintains complete functional and mechanical equivalence to the primary part 644465-4. The primary distinction between these parts is the contact finish specification (tin-lead versus tin) and packaging format (unspecified versus bulk), along with corresponding differences in regulatory compliance status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Part 644465-4 is suitable for applications where tin-lead contact finish is specified or required by design documentation. This part maintains active production status and is available in original inventory. However, this part is RoHS non-compliant and REACH-affected, which may restrict use in regulated markets or applications subject to environmental compliance requirements.

Part 3-644465-4 is the functionally equivalent substitute with identical electrical and mechanical specifications. This part is ROHS3 compliant, making it suitable for applications subject to RoHS directives and regulated procurement environments. The substitute part is available in significantly higher inventory (11889 pieces) and is supplied in bulk packaging format. The contact finish differs (tin versus tin-lead), but both finishes provide equivalent contact performance at the specified thickness of 80.0µin (2.03µm).

Selection between these parts should be based on regulatory compliance requirements, packaging needs, and supply chain availability rather than functional performance, as both parts are electrically and mechanically interchangeable within the MTA-156 series.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are parts 644465-4 and 3-644465-4 electrically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both parts are 4-position rectangular receptacle connectors with identical pitch (0.156"), contact type (female socket), termination method (IDC), wire gauge (18 AWG), and contact finish thickness (80.0µin). They are electrically equivalent and will function identically in circuits designed for either part.

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

A: The main part 644465-4 features a tin-lead contact finish, while the substitute 3-644465-4 features a tin contact finish. Both finishes are applied to the same thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm) and provide equivalent electrical performance. The primary distinction is regulatory: tin-lead finishes are subject to RoHS restrictions in certain markets, while tin finishes are ROHS3 compliant.

Q: Can I use 3-644465-4 as a direct replacement for 644465-4?

A: Yes, part 3-644465-4 is a direct mechanical and electrical substitute for 644465-4. Both parts share identical connector geometry, pitch, contact configuration, and IDC termination capability. The substitute part is available in bulk packaging and offers higher inventory availability.

Q: What does "IDC" termination mean?

A: IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination is a cable connection method where the connector contacts pierce through the insulation of the wire without requiring prior stripping. This method is used with both discrete 18 AWG wires and ribbon cables on both the main part and substitute.

Q: Are there any mechanical differences between these parts?

A: No. Both parts are identical in mechanical configuration: free-hanging in-line mounting, locking ramp fastening, polarizing key, feed-through capability, and orange color. They will fit into the same mating connectors and mounting positions.

Q: What is the significance of the MTA-156 series designation?

A: MTA-156 is the TE Connectivity product series designation for rectangular connectors with 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch. Both the main part and substitute belong to this series, ensuring compatibility with other MTA-156 components and mating connectors.

Q: Why is inventory significantly higher for part 3-644465-4?

A: Part 3-644465-4 is supplied in bulk packaging format and is ROHS3 compliant, making it suitable for high-volume procurement in regulated markets. The higher inventory level (11889 pieces versus 987 pieces) reflects greater market demand for the compliant variant.

Q: What does "Feed Through" feature mean?

A: The feed-through feature allows the connector to be used in applications where the cable passes through the connector body, enabling daisy-chain or multi-point connection configurations. Both parts include this feature.