TE Connectivity 644860-4 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 644860-4 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 tin-lead contact finish and is classified as obsolete. Due to its obsolete product status and RoHS non-compliant classification, identifying equivalent active alternatives is necessary for new designs and ongoing production requirements.

Substiute Parts

644860-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 960644860-4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644860-4

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 32993-644860-4 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TE Connectivity 644860-4 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Series designation (MTA-156)
• Connector type (Receptacle)
• Number of positions (4)
• Pitch specification (0.156" / 3.96mm)
• Cable termination method (IDC)
• Wire gauge compatibility (18 AWG)
• Contact type (Female Socket)
• Mounting configuration (Free Hanging In-Line)
• Fastening mechanism (Locking Ramp)
• Closed-end feature

The substitute part 3-644860-4 maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility with the original 644860-4 across all specified parameters. The primary distinction is the transition from tin-lead to tin contact finish and the change from obsolete to active product status with RoHS compliance.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The substitute part 3-644860-4 is the direct equivalent for the obsolete TE Connectivity 644860-4. Selection of the substitute is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The original 644860-4 is classified as obsolete, making the active 3-644860-4 the appropriate choice for continued component availability and supply chain continuity.

Regulatory Compliance: The 3-644860-4 is RoHS compliant, whereas the original 644860-4 is RoHS non-compliant. For applications subject to RoHS directives or customer requirements mandating RoHS compliance, the substitute part satisfies these regulatory obligations.

Contact Finish Specification: The original part features tin-lead contact finish, while the substitute features tin contact finish. Both maintain identical contact finish thickness (80.0µin / 2.03µm) and are functionally equivalent for IDC termination applications.

Electrical and Mechanical Compatibility: The 3-644860-4 maintains full compatibility across all electrical and mechanical parameters, including pitch, number of positions, wire gauge, termination method, and mounting configuration. Direct substitution is supported without design modification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-644860-4 directly replace the 644860-4 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 3-644860-4 maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility with the 644860-4 across all specified parameters including pitch, position count, wire gauge, IDC termination method, and mounting configuration. Direct substitution is supported without design changes.

Q: What is the difference between the tin-lead finish on the original part and the tin finish on the substitute?

A: The original 644860-4 features tin-lead contact finish, while the 3-644860-4 features tin contact finish. Both maintain identical contact finish thickness of 80.0µin (2.03µm). The tin finish on the substitute reflects the transition to RoHS-compliant manufacturing processes.

Q: Why is the original 644860-4 classified as obsolete?

A: The 644860-4 is listed as obsolete by TE Connectivity. The active equivalent 3-644860-4 is the current production alternative and is recommended for all new designs and ongoing procurement.

Q: Does the RoHS compliance status affect connector performance?

A: RoHS compliance status reflects manufacturing process and material composition rather than electrical or mechanical performance. The 3-644860-4 delivers equivalent performance to the original part while meeting RoHS regulatory requirements.

Q: Are there packaging differences between the two parts?

A: The original 644860-4 packaging is unspecified in the provided data. The 3-644860-4 is supplied in bulk packaging. Confirm packaging requirements with your procurement specifications.

Q: What wire gauges are compatible with these connectors?

A: Both the 644860-4 and 3-644860-4 are specified for 18 AWG wire gauge with IDC termination for discrete or ribbon cable applications.

Q: Is the moisture sensitivity level the same for both parts?

A: Yes. Both the 644860-4 and 3-644860-4 are classified as MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions for storage or handling.