Switchcraft A5M Circular Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Switchcraft A5M is a 5-position circular connector receptacle with male pins, designed for solder cup termination. This connector is part of the Q-G® A series and is actively manufactured. The A5M serves applications requiring reliable audio and instrumentation connections with a rated capacity of 7.5A at 125VAC. Substitute parts may be required due to inventory availability, lead time considerations, or specific application requirements within the defined electrical and mechanical parameters.

Substiute Parts

A5M

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 778A5M Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

AC5M

Amphenol AudioIn Stock: 1272AC5M Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the Switchcraft A5M is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Connector Configuration: Receptacle with male pins, 5-position XLR circular connector
• Termination Method: Solder cup termination
• Electrical Ratings: Minimum 7.5A current capacity and compatible voltage rating
• Mechanical Compatibility: Free hanging in-line mounting with keyed orientation
• Shell and Contact Materials: Metal shell with nickel finish and silver-mated contacts

The Amphenol Audio AC5M meets these core substitution criteria as a 5-position XLR circular connector receptacle with male pins and solder cup termination, maintaining electrical compatibility and mechanical interchangeability within the defined parameter set.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the Switchcraft A5M and Amphenol Audio AC5M are active products with ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, meeting current regulatory requirements. The connectors share identical core specifications for connector type, position count, shell size, termination method, and electrical current rating. Selection between these parts should be based on availability, lead time, and application-specific requirements within the audio and instrumentation domains. Both parts maintain equivalent mechanical and electrical performance within the specified parameter envelope.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Amphenol Audio AC5M directly replace the Switchcraft A5M?

A: Yes, within the defined electrical and mechanical parameters. Both are 5-position XLR circular connector receptacles with male pins and solder cup termination, rated for 7.5A current capacity with keyed orientation and free hanging in-line mounting.

Q: What are the key differences between these connectors?

A: The primary differences are contact material composition (brass versus phosphor bronze), shell material specification (zinc versus zinc die cast), and fastening type designation (latch lock versus latch holder). The Amphenol AC5M includes specified operating temperature range (-25°C to 75°C) and ingress protection rating (IP40), while the Switchcraft A5M specifies 125VAC voltage rating.

Q: Are both connectors suitable for audio applications?

A: Yes. Both connectors list audio applications within their specified use cases. The Switchcraft A5M additionally supports instrumentation applications.

Q: What is the cable opening compatibility?

A: The Switchcraft A5M accommodates cable openings of 0.210" to 0.300" (5.33mm to 7.62mm). The Amphenol AC5M accommodates 0.118" to 0.256" (3.00mm to 6.50mm). Cable diameter requirements must be verified for specific applications.

Q: Do both parts meet current compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both the Switchcraft A5M and Amphenol Audio AC5M are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current regulatory requirements for electronic component manufacturing and distribution.