3M 81068-660C01-RB Rectangular Connector Header - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3M 81068-660C01-RB is a surface mount rectangular connector header designed for board-to-cable/wire applications. This 68-position header operates at 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch with dual-row configuration and shrouded 4-wall design. The part is currently in Active product status with 988 units available in inventory. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary when the primary part becomes unavailable, when procurement lead times require alternative sourcing, or when design flexibility permits selection from compatible alternatives within the same electrical and mechanical specifications.

Substiute Parts

81068-660C01-RB

3MIn Stock: 102981068-660C01-RB Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

81068-660C01-RB

3MIn Stock: 115581068-660C01-RB Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 3M 81068-660C01-RB is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Header with male pin contacts
• Position Count & Row Configuration: 68 positions in 2-row arrangement
• Pitch Specifications: 0.050" (1.27mm) mating pitch with 0.100" (2.54mm) row spacing
• Mounting & Termination: Surface mount with solder termination
• Mechanical Design: Shrouded 4-wall construction with latch lock/eject hooks
• Electrical Performance: 0.75A current rating across operating range
• Environmental Compliance: UL94 V-0 flammability rating, operating temperature -55°C to 105°C
• Material Composition: Liquid Crystal Polymer insulation with copper alloy contacts

Parts meeting all these parameters are classified as direct equivalents. The substitute part identified maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications while differing only in product status classification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The substitute part 81068-660C01-RB carries Obsolete product status, indicating it is no longer in active production. However, it maintains complete electrical and mechanical equivalence to the Active version. The substitute demonstrates superior compliance documentation with explicit RoHS Compliant certification and MSL Level 1 rating, indicating minimal moisture sensitivity and unrestricted shelf life.

Selection between the Active and Obsolete variants should be based on procurement availability and supply chain requirements. The Active status part (988 units in stock) is recommended for new designs and applications requiring long-term component availability. The Obsolete variant (1108 units in stock) remains functionally equivalent and may be selected when existing inventory is available and design flexibility permits use of components no longer in production.

Both variants satisfy UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and operate across the full -55°C to 105°C temperature range with identical electrical performance characteristics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are these parts electrically interchangeable? A: Yes. Both parts maintain identical electrical specifications including 0.75A current rating, operating temperature range of -55°C to 105°C, and contact material composition. They are direct electrical equivalents.

Q: What is the difference between the Active and Obsolete variants? A: The primary difference is product status. The Active variant is in current production with ongoing manufacturing support. The Obsolete variant is no longer manufactured but remains functionally identical. The Obsolete variant includes explicit RoHS Compliant certification and MSL Level 1 documentation.

Q: Can I use the Obsolete part in a new design? A: Functionally, yes. The Obsolete part meets all electrical and mechanical requirements. However, procurement considerations apply. The Obsolete part may have limited future availability, making it unsuitable for designs requiring long-term component sourcing.

Q: Are the mechanical dimensions identical? A: Yes. Both parts share identical mechanical specifications: 68 positions in 2-row configuration, 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch, 0.100" (2.54mm) row spacing, shrouded 4-wall design, and surface mount termination. They are mechanically interchangeable.

Q: What does RoHS Compliant mean for the substitute part? A: RoHS Compliant indicates the substitute part meets Restriction of Hazardous Substances regulations, restricting lead, cadmium, mercury, and other hazardous materials. This certification is explicitly documented for the Obsolete variant.

Q: What is MSL Level 1? A: Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 indicates unlimited shelf life with no moisture sensitivity restrictions. The component can be stored indefinitely without special moisture control measures.