Equivalent & Substitute Parts for 78208-403

Part Overview

The 78208-403 is a rectangular connector header manufactured by Amphenol ICC (FCI) in the Mini-PV™ series. This through-hole, right-angle connector features 3 positions with 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch and is designed for board-to-cable/wire applications. The part is currently active in production with 787 units in stock. Substitute parts are necessary to address supply chain flexibility, alternative packaging requirements, or specific application needs while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

78208-403

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 87078208-403 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

103634-2

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 7276103634-2 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

281698-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 2280281698-3 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 78208-403 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Connector type (Header)
• Contact type (Male Pin)
• Mating pitch (0.100" / 2.54mm)
• Number of positions (3)
• Number of rows (1)
• Mounting configuration (Through Hole, Right Angle)
• Termination method (Solder)
• Material flammability rating (UL94 V-0)

The identified substitute parts 103634-2 and 281698-3 meet these core electrical and mechanical requirements. Variations in shrouding design (2-wall vs. 4-wall), contact material composition, insulation material type, and fastening mechanisms represent acceptable engineering trade-offs within the rectangular connector category for this pitch and position configuration.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both substitute parts maintain active product status and UL94 V-0 flammability compliance, ensuring compatibility with the original 78208-403 in standard applications.

103634-2 (TE Connectivity AMPMODU MTE): This substitute offers the highest inventory availability at 7226 units and features 4-wall shrouding for enhanced mechanical protection. The brass contact material and tin-lead finish provide robust electrical performance. Tube packaging may be preferred for automated assembly processes. Operating temperature range of -65°C to 105°C and 3A current rating are specified. RoHS non-compliant status matches the main part.

281698-3 (TE Connectivity HE13/HE14): This substitute provides RoHS compliance, distinguishing it from the main part and 103634-2. The phosphor bronze contact material matches the original specification. Operating temperature range of -40°C to 100°C and 2-wall shrouding align closely with the main part design. Bulk packaging matches the original. The extended mating contact length of 0.276" (7.00mm) versus 0.230" (5.84mm) on the main part represents a dimensional variation requiring board layout verification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 103634-2 and 281698-3 be used interchangeably with 78208-403?

A: Both parts share the critical mating parameters: 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch, 3 positions, 1 row, through-hole right-angle mounting, and solder termination. Mechanical fit and electrical function are compatible. Dimensional variations in contact length and shrouding design require board layout confirmation for specific applications.

Q: What is the significance of the shrouding difference between 2-wall and 4-wall designs?

A: Shrouding provides mechanical guidance and protection during mating. 2-wall shrouding (78208-403 and 281698-3) offers standard guidance, while 4-wall shrouding (103634-2) provides enhanced protection and alignment. Both designs are functionally compatible with standard mating connectors at 2.54mm pitch.

Q: Does the contact material difference affect performance?

A: The main part and 281698-3 use phosphor bronze contacts, while 103634-2 uses brass. Both materials are standard for 2.54mm pitch connectors and provide adequate electrical conductivity and durability for general-purpose applications. Contact finish (tin vs. tin-lead) also differs; both finishes are acceptable for solder termination.

Q: Why does 281698-3 have a longer mating contact length?

A: The 0.276" (7.00mm) mating contact length on 281698-3 versus 0.230" (5.84mm) on the main part represents a design variation within the HE13/HE14 series. This affects insertion depth and may require board layout adjustment. Verify mating connector specifications before substitution.

Q: What is the impact of RoHS compliance status?

A: The main part (78208-403) and 103634-2 are RoHS non-compliant, while 281698-3 is RoHS compliant. RoHS compliance is required for applications subject to EU Directive 2011/65/EU or equivalent regulations. Select 281698-3 for RoHS-mandated applications.

Q: How does packaging affect part selection?

A: The main part and 281698-3 are supplied in bulk packaging, suitable for manual assembly or standard pick-and-place operations. 103634-2 is supplied in tube packaging, which may be preferred for automated assembly systems. Packaging does not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility.

Q: Are there operating temperature constraints for substitution?

A: The main part does not specify an operating temperature range. 103634-2 operates from -65°C to 105°C, and 281698-3 operates from -40°C to 100°C. For applications requiring extended temperature performance, 103634-2 provides the widest range. Verify application requirements before selection.