Switchcraft 820 Mono 6.35mm Barrel Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Switchcraft 820 is a 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4") mono headphone jack connector designed for free-hanging, in-line applications. This connector features screw termination and is constructed with a copper alloy body and brass contacts. The product is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute parts essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and system integration where this connector type is specified.

Substiute Parts

820

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 1008820 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

820X

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 1175820X Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the Switchcraft 820 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Connector type: Phone Jack (female gender)
• Signal configuration: Mono (2 contacts)
• Mating diameter: 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4")
• Mounting configuration: Free hanging, in-line
• Termination method: Screw
• Contact and body materials: Brass contacts with nickel plating, copper alloy body

The substitute part 820X maintains these core specifications, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility in applications where the original Switchcraft 820 is specified.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Switchcraft 820X serves as the direct substitute for the obsolete Switchcraft 820. Both connectors share identical mechanical and electrical specifications for the 6.35mm mono jack configuration. The 820X is the current production equivalent and maintains full compatibility with applications originally designed for the 820.

Selection between the two parts should be based on availability and application requirements. The 820 remains available in inventory (969 units) for legacy system support. The 820X (1165 units in stock) is recommended for new designs and ongoing production where component continuity is required.

Both parts are RoHS non-compliant and REACH unaffected, with identical compliance profiles. No functional or mechanical differences exist between these two part numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the Switchcraft 820 and 820X mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors are 6.35mm mono phone jacks with identical mounting configurations (free hanging, in-line), termination methods (screw), and contact specifications (2 conductors, 2 contacts). They are direct mechanical and electrical equivalents.

Q: What is the mating diameter tolerance for these connectors?

A: The industry recognized mating diameter is 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4"). The actual measured diameter is 0.252" (6.40mm). This specification applies to both the 820 and 820X.

Q: Can these connectors be used in shielded applications?

A: No. Both the 820 and 820X are unshielded connectors. Applications requiring electromagnetic shielding require alternative connector designs.

Q: What cable opening size is required for these connectors?

A: The cable opening is 0.260" (6.60mm) for the Switchcraft 820. This specification should be verified for the 820X in applications with specific cable diameter requirements.

Q: Are there compliance differences between the 820 and 820X?

A: No. Both connectors share identical RoHS and REACH compliance status. Both are RoHS non-compliant and REACH unaffected.

Q: What termination method is used for these connectors?

A: Both connectors use screw termination for wire attachment. This method is suitable for applications requiring secure, field-serviceable connections.