Switchcraft 881 Barrel Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Switchcraft 881 is a 2.46mm ID mono phone plug connector featuring solder eyelet termination and two conductors. This connector is designed for audio and signal applications requiring a compact, reliable barrel connector interface. The 881 series represents the standard configuration within Switchcraft's MICRO-PLUG® product line, with 987 units currently in stock as new original inventory.

Substitute parts become necessary when specific packaging requirements, feature enhancements, or inventory constraints necessitate alternative configurations while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

881

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 1013881 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

881X

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 756881X Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The Switchcraft 881X qualifies as a direct substitute for the 881 based on the following critical parameters:

• Identical mating diameter: 2.46mm ID (0.097")
• Matching connector type and gender: Phone Plug, Male
• Identical signal configuration: Mono with 2 conductors and 2 contacts
• Matching termination method: Solder Eyelet(s)
• Identical mounting type: Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Equivalent electrical ratings: 125VAC, 125 mA
• Matching operating temperature range: -20°C ~ 65°C

The primary distinction is the 881X incorporates a thread lock feature and belongs to the LOCK MICRO-PLUG® series, with packaging supplied in bulk format. Both parts maintain identical mechanical and electrical compatibility for standard applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the 881 and 881X are active products with full regulatory compliance. Selection between these parts should be based on the following criteria:

Choose the 881 when standard packaging and baseline mono phone plug functionality are required without additional mechanical retention features.

Choose the 881X when applications require thread lock capability for enhanced mechanical stability, or when bulk packaging aligns with procurement requirements. The LOCK MICRO-PLUG® series provides additional retention without compromising electrical or mechanical compatibility.

Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, making them suitable for regulated applications. Inventory availability should be evaluated against project timelines, with the 881 currently offering higher stock levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the 881 and 881X mechanically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical mating diameter (2.46mm ID), mounting type (free hanging in-line), and physical dimensions (0.450" mating depth, 0.125" cable opening). The primary mechanical difference is the thread lock feature on the 881X, which does not prevent interchangeability.

Q: What is the functional difference between the 881 and 881X?

A: The 881X incorporates a thread lock mechanism as part of the LOCK MICRO-PLUG® series. This feature provides additional mechanical retention in applications subject to vibration or repeated mating cycles. Electrical performance and signal handling remain identical.

Q: Do both parts support the same electrical specifications?

A: Yes. Both the 881 and 881X are rated for 125VAC and 125 mA current, with identical operating temperature ranges of -20°C to 65°C. Contact material, plating, and body construction are equivalent.

Q: What packaging differences exist between these parts?

A: The 881 is supplied in standard packaging, while the 881X is available in bulk packaging. Bulk packaging typically accommodates higher-volume procurement and may offer cost advantages for large-scale applications.

Q: Are both parts compliant with current regulations?

A: Yes. Both the 881 and 881X are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for electronic components.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: Selection depends on application requirements. For applications requiring mechanical retention against vibration or repeated connection cycles, the 881X with thread lock is recommended. For standard applications without these requirements, either part is suitable based on packaging and inventory availability.