Amphenol ICC 78208-103 Rectangular Connector Header - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Amphenol ICC 78208-103 is a through-hole, right-angle rectangular connector header designed for board-to-cable/wire applications. This 3-position header operates within the -40°C to 105°C temperature range and features shrouded 2-wall construction with friction lock fastening. The part is currently active in production with 1012 units in stock. Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical parameters align with the original specification, enabling direct replacement in applications where component availability or compliance requirements necessitate alternative sourcing.

Substiute Parts

78208-103

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 103478208-103 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

78208-103HLF

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 233078208-103HLF Datasheet

DirectRFQ

281698-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 2280281698-3 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 78208-103 is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters: connector type (header), contact type (male pin), mating pitch (0.100"/2.54mm), position count (3), row configuration (1 row), mounting style (through hole, right angle), shrouding design (shrouded 2-wall), termination method (solder), and fastening mechanism (friction lock). All identified substitutes maintain these core electrical and mechanical specifications. Variations in contact finish material, contact length dimensions, insulation material composition, and operating temperature ceiling do not preclude substitution when the primary functional parameters remain constant. RoHS compliance status and inventory availability are secondary considerations that support component selection but do not define substitution eligibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 78208-103HLF serves as the direct manufacturer equivalent, maintaining identical electrical and mechanical specifications while offering RoHS compliance status. This part is sourced from the same manufacturer within the same product series and represents the preferred substitute when RoHS compliance is required.

The TE Connectivity 281698-3 functions as a cross-manufacturer substitute. While it maintains all critical functional parameters—mating pitch, position count, mounting configuration, and shrouding design—it exhibits minor dimensional variations in contact length and insulation height within acceptable tolerances. The operating temperature maximum is reduced to 100°C compared to the original 105°C specification. This part is suitable for applications where cross-manufacturer sourcing is acceptable and RoHS compliance is required.

Selection between substitutes should be based on supply chain requirements, RoHS compliance mandates, and operating temperature specifications of the target application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 78208-103HLF be used as a direct replacement for the 78208-103?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical connector type, contact configuration, mating pitch, position count, mounting style, and shrouding design. The primary difference is RoHS compliance status. The 78208-103HLF is suitable for direct substitution in all applications where the original part was specified.

Q: What are the key differences between the Amphenol ICC 78208-103HLF and the TE Connectivity 281698-3?

A: Both parts maintain the same mating pitch (0.100"/2.54mm), position count (3), mounting type (through hole, right angle), and shrouding configuration (shrouded 2-wall). The 281698-3 exhibits contact length variations (0.276" mating vs. 0.230" for the original) and a reduced maximum operating temperature of 100°C compared to 105°C. Contact finish differs: the original and 78208-103HLF use gold plating, while the 281698-3 uses tin plating.

Q: Are there any mechanical compatibility concerns when substituting the 281698-3 for the 78208-103?

A: The 281698-3 maintains compatible mating pitch, shrouding design, and mounting configuration. Minor dimensional variations in contact length and insulation height fall within standard connector tolerance ranges and do not affect mechanical fit or electrical performance in standard board-to-cable applications.

Q: What is the significance of the RoHS compliance difference between these parts?

A: RoHS compliance indicates the absence of restricted substances (lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, PBBs, and PBDEs) in the component. The 78208-103 is RoHS non-compliant, while both 78208-103HLF and 281698-3 are RoHS compliant. Selection depends on regulatory requirements of the target application or end market.

Q: Can the 78208-103 be used in applications with operating temperatures above 100°C?

A: The 78208-103 is rated to 105°C maximum operating temperature. The TE Connectivity 281698-3 substitute is rated to 100°C maximum. If the application requires operation above 100°C, the original 78208-103 or 78208-103HLF must be used.