Switchcraft C245 6.35mm Mono Phone Plug Connector - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Switchcraft C245 is a 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4") mono phone plug connector designed for headphone and audio applications. This connector features a male gender configuration with 2 conductors and 2 contacts, utilizing copper alloy construction with tin plating. The C245 is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for ongoing procurement and system maintenance.

Substiute Parts

C245

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 1019C245 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

C245X

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 964C245X Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the obsolete Switchcraft C245 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Compatibility Criteria:

• Connector type: Phone Plug (male gender)
• Mating diameter: 6.35mm (0.250", 1/4")
• Signal configuration: Mono (2 conductors, 2 contacts)
• Housing material: Plastic

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Contact material composition (copper alloy or brass)
• Plating material (tin or nickel)
• Termination method (solder vs. screw)
• Mounting configuration (free hanging/in-line)

The Switchcraft C245X qualifies as a direct substitute based on matching connector type, mating diameter, gender, signal configuration, contact count, and housing material. Variations in body material, plating, and termination method do not prevent functional substitution in standard audio applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Obsolete Part Replacement:

The Switchcraft C245X is the direct active equivalent for the obsolete C245. Selection of C245X is supported by:

• Identical mechanical interface (6.35mm mating diameter, male mono phone plug configuration)
• Matching electrical specifications (2-conductor, 2-contact configuration)
• Active product status with current manufacturing and inventory availability
• ROHS3 compliance, meeting modern environmental and regulatory requirements
• Equivalent contact and housing materials ensuring functional performance in audio applications

Termination Method Consideration:

The primary difference between C245 and C245X is termination method. The C245 uses screw termination, while C245X employs solder termination. Selection between these methods depends on assembly process requirements and cable attachment methodology. Both termination approaches are functionally equivalent for mono audio signal transmission.

Compliance Status:

For applications requiring RoHS compliance, C245X is the appropriate selection. The original C245, classified as non-compliant, should be replaced with C245X in new designs and systems subject to environmental regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the C245X directly replace the C245 in existing assemblies?

A: Mechanical and electrical compatibility is confirmed. The primary consideration is termination method: C245 uses screw termination while C245X uses solder termination. If the existing assembly uses screw-terminated connections, cable re-termination to solder will be required.

Q: What is the significance of the different body materials (copper alloy vs. brass)?

A: Both copper alloy and brass are ferrous metals with equivalent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance properties for audio applications. Material substitution does not affect connector performance in standard 6.35mm mono phone plug applications.

Q: Does the nickel plating on C245X provide advantages over the tin plating on C245?

A: Nickel plating offers enhanced corrosion resistance and durability compared to tin plating, particularly in environments with higher humidity or temperature cycling. For audio applications, both plating materials provide adequate contact protection.

Q: Is the C245X suitable for new product designs?

A: Yes. The C245X is actively manufactured, maintains current inventory levels, and meets ROHS3 environmental compliance requirements. It is the recommended selection for new designs requiring 6.35mm mono phone plug connectors.

Q: What is the mating length difference between C245 and C245X?

A: The C245X specifies a mating length of 1.200" (30.50mm). The C245 mating length is not provided in the available specifications. This dimension should be confirmed against mechanical drawings if precise depth requirements exist in the application.

Q: Are there any cable opening or panel hole size differences?

A: The C245X specifies a cable opening of 0.297" (7.54mm). The C245 cable opening dimension is not specified. Panel hole size is not specified for either connector. These dimensions should be confirmed against application requirements.