TE Connectivity 644468-4 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 644468-4 is a 4-position rectangular receptacle connector from the MTA-156 series, designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with 24 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. This connector features tin-lead contact finish, a polarizing key, and feed-through capability, making it suitable for applications requiring secure in-line connections with positive locking mechanisms.

The part is currently active in production with 1,118 units in stock. Identification of equivalent substitute parts is necessary to support procurement flexibility, manage supply chain continuity, and accommodate specific compliance or packaging requirements across different manufacturing environments.

Substiute Parts

644468-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 1222644468-4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644468-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 26623-644468-4 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TE Connectivity 644468-4 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (4)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge (24 AWG)
• Mounting type (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Fastening type (Locking Ramp)
• Number of rows (1)
• Series designation (MTA-156)

The identified substitute part, TE Connectivity 3-644468-4, maintains complete electrical and mechanical compatibility with the main part across all these parameters. The primary distinction between the two parts relates to contact finish specification (tin-lead versus tin) and RoHS compliance status, which do not affect functional interchangeability in applications where these material specifications are acceptable.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Part 644468-4 (Tin-Lead Contact Finish): Select this part for applications where tin-lead contact finish is explicitly required by design specification or where RoHS non-compliance is acceptable within the product's regulatory framework. This part maintains the original material specification and is suitable for legacy designs or systems with established tin-lead material qualifications.

Part 3-644468-4 (Tin Contact Finish, RoHS Compliant): Select this substitute part for new designs, applications subject to RoHS compliance requirements, or where regulatory frameworks mandate lead-free materials. The tin contact finish with equivalent thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm) provides electrical and mechanical performance parity with the main part. Higher inventory availability (2,566 units) supports improved procurement lead times. This part is suitable for direct substitution in applications where RoHS compliance is a design requirement or procurement mandate.

Both parts share identical electrical and mechanical specifications, series designation, and functional features. Selection between them depends solely on material compliance requirements and packaging preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 644468-4 and 3-644468-4 fully interchangeable?

A: Yes, these parts are fully interchangeable from an electrical and mechanical standpoint. Both are 4-position MTA-156 series receptacle connectors with identical pitch (0.156"), contact type (female socket), termination method (IDC), wire gauge (24 AWG), and fastening mechanism (locking ramp). The primary difference is contact finish material: tin-lead versus tin. Interchangeability is confirmed when the application's material specification permits either finish type.

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

A: The 644468-4 features a tin-lead contact finish, while the 3-644468-4 features a tin contact finish. Both finishes are applied to the same thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm). Tin-lead finishes are used in legacy designs and applications where lead-free materials are not required. Tin finishes comply with RoHS directives and are specified for applications subject to lead-free material mandates. Electrical and mechanical performance characteristics are equivalent.

Q: Does the RoHS compliance difference affect connector performance?

A: No. RoHS compliance status reflects the material composition of the contact finish and does not affect electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, or functional performance of the connector. The RoHS designation indicates regulatory compliance for specific markets and applications. Selection between RoHS-compliant and non-compliant versions depends on the product's regulatory requirements, not on performance characteristics.

Q: Can I use the 3-644468-4 as a direct replacement for the 644468-4 in existing designs?

A: Yes, the 3-644468-4 can be used as a direct replacement provided the application's material specification permits tin contact finish or does not explicitly require tin-lead. Both connectors are mechanically and electrically identical. If the original design specifies tin-lead contact finish for a particular reason, confirm that tin finish is acceptable before substitution.

Q: What is the significance of the packaging difference?

A: The 644468-4 packaging is not specified in the data provided. The 3-644468-4 is supplied in bulk packaging. Packaging type affects handling, storage, and procurement logistics but does not influence connector functionality or performance. Bulk packaging typically supports higher-volume procurement and may offer cost advantages.

Q: Are both parts suitable for IDC termination with 24 AWG cable?

A: Yes. Both the 644468-4 and 3-644468-4 are designed for IDC termination with 24 AWG discrete or ribbon cable. The IDC termination method, wire gauge specification, and contact geometry are identical across both parts. Both connectors support feed-through capability and polarizing key features.

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

A: Both connectors have a pitch of 0.156" (3.96mm), which is the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact positions. Pitch is a critical parameter for mechanical compatibility. Connectors with different pitch specifications are not interchangeable. The matching pitch specification confirms that the 3-644468-4 is a valid substitute for the 644468-4.

Q: What does the MTA-156 series designation indicate?

A: MTA-156 is the series designation for TE Connectivity's modular rectangular connector family with 0.156" pitch. Both the 644468-4 and 3-644468-4 belong to this series, confirming their mechanical and electrical compatibility within the MTA-156 connector ecosystem.