Amphenol ICC 78208-503 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Amphenol ICC 78208-503 is a rectangular connector header designed for through-hole, right-angle mounting applications. This 3-position connector operates at 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch and features shrouded 2-wall construction with solder termination. The part is currently active in production with 1,181 pieces available in inventory. Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical parameters align with application requirements, enabling component interchangeability for procurement flexibility and supply chain continuity.

Substiute Parts

78208-503

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 120078208-503 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

103635-2

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 888103635-2 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

281698-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 2280281698-3 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility is determined by alignment of core electrical and mechanical 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), and termination method (solder). All identified substitutes meet these baseline criteria.

TE Connectivity AMP Connectors part 103635-2 qualifies as a substitute with matching pitch, position count, and mounting configuration. Variations include shrouding design (4-wall versus 2-wall), contact material (brass versus phosphor bronze), and fastening mechanism (latch holder versus friction lock). Operating temperature range (-65°C to 105°C) and current rating (3A) are specified for this substitute.

TE Connectivity AMP Connectors part 281698-3 qualifies as a substitute with matching pitch, position count, and mounting configuration. Variations include contact finish (tin versus gold), contact length specifications, insulation material (thermoplastic versus PCT glass-filled), and operating temperature range (-40°C to 100°C). This part carries RoHS Compliant status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

All three parts maintain active product status and UL94 V-0 flammability certification. The 78208-503 is RoHS non-compliant, while 281698-3 carries RoHS Compliant status and 103635-2 is not applicable for RoHS classification. Selection between substitutes depends on regulatory requirements and environmental specifications applicable to the end application.

Part 103635-2 provides the widest operating temperature range (-65°C to 105°C) and specified current rating (3A), making it suitable for applications requiring extended thermal performance. Part 281698-3 offers RoHS compliance for regulated markets and maintains friction lock fastening consistent with the original design.

Mechanical variations exist in contact length and shrouding configuration. The 78208-503 and 281698-3 share identical 2-wall shrouding, while 103635-2 features 4-wall shrouding. Contact mating lengths differ between 281698-3 (0.276") and both 78208-503 and 103635-2 (0.230"), which may affect mating depth in specific connector housings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What determines if a part can substitute for the 78208-503?

A: Core substitution criteria include 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), and solder termination. All identified substitutes meet these baseline requirements.

Q: How do shrouding differences affect compatibility?

A: The 78208-503 and 281698-3 feature 2-wall shrouding, while 103635-2 features 4-wall shrouding. Shrouding design affects mating with corresponding connector housings. Verify that the mating connector housing is compatible with the shrouding configuration of the selected substitute.

Q: What is the significance of contact finish differences?

A: The 78208-503 specifies gold or gold GXT™ mating contact finish. Substitute 103635-2 provides gold finish, while 281698-3 specifies tin finish. Contact finish affects electrical performance, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with specific mating surfaces. Select based on application requirements and mating connector specifications.

Q: Does RoHS compliance affect substitution eligibility?

A: RoHS compliance is a regulatory requirement, not a functional substitution criterion. The 78208-503 is RoHS non-compliant, while 281698-3 is RoHS Compliant. Selection depends on whether the end application is subject to RoHS regulations. Both parts are functionally equivalent for non-regulated applications.

Q: How do operating temperature ranges differ?

A: The 78208-503 does not specify an operating temperature range. Substitute 103635-2 operates from -65°C to 105°C, while 281698-3 operates from -40°C to 100°C. For applications requiring extended thermal performance, 103635-2 provides the widest temperature envelope.

Q: What packaging options are available?

A: The 78208-503 is supplied in bulk packaging. Substitute 103635-2 is supplied in tube packaging, while 281698-3 is supplied in bulk packaging. Packaging selection may affect handling, storage, and procurement logistics but does not affect functional compatibility.

Q: Are contact length variations significant?

A: Contact mating length for 78208-503 and 103635-2 is 0.230" (5.84mm), while 281698-3 specifies 0.276" (7.00mm). Contact post length also varies between parts. These dimensions affect mating depth and engagement with corresponding connector housings. Verify compatibility with the mating connector design before substitution.