TE Connectivity 644878-2 Rectangular Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TE Connectivity 644878-2 is a 2-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, and polarizing key for secure mating. The part is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent alternatives to maintain design continuity and ensure supply chain availability for new production and field service applications.

Substiute Parts

644878-2

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 793644878-2 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3-644878-2

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 7923-644878-2 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TE Connectivity 644878-2 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Connector type: Rectangular receptacle
• Number of positions: 2
• Pitch: 0.156" (3.96mm)
• Number of rows: 1
• Contact type: Female socket
• Cable termination: IDC
• Wire gauge: 18 AWG
• Mounting type: Free hanging (in-line)
• Fastening type: Locking ramp
• Series: MTA-156

Allowable Variations:

• Contact finish material (tin-lead to tin)
• Contact finish thickness (maintained at 80.0µin)
• Product status (obsolete to active)
• Packaging format (bulk to tape & reel)
• RoHS compliance status
• REACH compliance status

The substitute part 3-644878-2 maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility while offering improved regulatory compliance and active production status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The TE Connectivity 3-644878-2 is the direct functional equivalent of the obsolete 644878-2 model. Selection of the substitute part is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The 3-644878-2 maintains active production status, ensuring long-term supply chain availability and manufacturing consistency compared to the obsolete 644878-2.

Regulatory Compliance: The substitute part is RoHS compliant, meeting current environmental and hazardous substance restrictions. The main part is RoHS non-compliant due to its tin-lead contact finish. The 3-644878-2 employs a tin contact finish while maintaining identical contact finish thickness and electrical performance characteristics.

REACH Compliance: The substitute part is REACH unaffected, providing regulatory advantage over the REACH-affected main part.

Electrical and Mechanical Compatibility: Both parts share identical specifications across all critical parameters including connector geometry, pitch, contact configuration, IDC termination method, wire gauge compatibility, and mounting characteristics. Direct substitution is electrically and mechanically valid.

Packaging Consideration: The substitute part is supplied in tape & reel packaging, suitable for automated assembly processes, whereas the main part was supplied in bulk packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3-644878-2 be used as a direct replacement for the 644878-2 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 3-644878-2 is electrically and mechanically equivalent to the 644878-2. Both connectors share identical pitch, position count, contact configuration, IDC termination method, and wire gauge specifications. The substitute part is fully compatible with existing mating connectors and cable assemblies designed for the original part.

Q: What is the difference between the tin-lead finish on the 644878-2 and the tin finish on the 3-644878-2?

A: The contact finish material differs between the two parts. The 644878-2 uses tin-lead, while the 3-644878-2 uses tin. Both finishes maintain the same contact finish thickness of 80.0µin (2.03µm). The tin finish on the substitute part provides RoHS compliance while maintaining equivalent electrical contact resistance and durability characteristics.

Q: Why is the 644878-2 classified as obsolete?

A: The 644878-2 is obsolete due to its tin-lead contact finish, which is non-compliant with current RoHS regulations. The 3-644878-2 represents the active production equivalent with updated tin contact finish to meet modern environmental and regulatory requirements.

Q: Are there any performance differences between the two parts?

A: No performance differences exist between the 644878-2 and 3-644878-2. Both parts deliver identical electrical performance, mechanical durability, and reliability characteristics. The contact finish thickness is maintained at 80.0µin on both parts, ensuring equivalent contact resistance and service life.

Q: What packaging formats are available for the substitute part?

A: The 3-644878-2 is supplied in tape & reel (TR) packaging, optimized for automated assembly and high-volume production environments. The original 644878-2 was supplied in bulk packaging.

Q: Is the 3-644878-2 suitable for new product designs?

A: Yes. The 3-644878-2 is the recommended choice for new designs. It offers active production status, RoHS compliance, and REACH unaffected status, providing regulatory certainty and long-term supply chain stability.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for both parts?

A: Both the 644878-2 and 3-644878-2 have a moisture sensitivity level (MSL) of 1, indicating unlimited shelf life without special moisture control requirements.