DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25) Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25) is a rectangular connector header manufactured by Hirose Electric Co Ltd, designed for through-hole mounting with 4 positions at 0.156" (3.96mm) pitch. This connector features shrouded 4-wall construction with solder termination and latch holder fastening, suitable for board-to-cable/wire applications. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing system support and component procurement.

Substiute Parts

DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25)

Hirose Electric Co LtdIn Stock: 959DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25) Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

179840-1

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 3050179840-1 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25) is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Pitch - Mating: 0.156" (3.96mm) — must match exactly for mechanical and electrical compatibility
• Number of Positions: 4 — connector must accommodate the same pin count
• Connector Type: Header — must be a header configuration for board-to-cable/wire applications
• Mounting Type: Through Hole — PCB mounting method must remain consistent
• Shrouding: Shrouded - 4 Wall — mechanical protection and keying alignment requirement
• Termination: Solder — connection method to PCB must be solder-compatible
• Material Flammability Rating: UL94 V-0 — safety compliance requirement

The substitute part 179840-1 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors) meets these core substitution criteria while offering active product status and enhanced operating temperature range.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 179840-1 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors) is the qualified substitute for the obsolete DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25). Selection rationale is based on the following factors:

• Product Status: The substitute maintains active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete original part.
• Compliance Alignment: Both parts maintain UL94 V-0 flammability rating and REACH Unaffected status, meeting identical safety and regulatory requirements.
• Certification Equivalence: Both parts carry EAR99 ECCN classification with matching HTSUS codes (8536.69.4040), confirming trade compliance alignment.
• Electrical and Mechanical Compatibility: Identical pitch (0.156"), position count (4), mounting method (through hole), and shrouding configuration (4 wall) ensure direct PCB-level compatibility.
• Enhanced Operating Range: The substitute provides -30°C ~ 105°C operating temperature versus -35°C ~ 85°C on the original, offering broader thermal performance without compromising lower-temperature operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 179840-1 be used as a direct replacement for the DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25) on existing PCBs?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical pitch (0.156"), position count (4), through-hole mounting configuration, and 4-wall shrouding. PCB footprints are mechanically compatible. The substitute's kinked pin termination is compatible with standard solder reflow processes.

Q: What is the difference between the contact types (Male Pin vs. Tab)?

A: The original uses male pin contacts; the substitute uses tab contacts. Both are solder-termination compatible and function within the same 0.156" pitch mating interface. Tab contacts provide equivalent electrical performance in this application class.

Q: Does the substitute have different insulation material properties?

A: The original uses glass-filled polyamide; the substitute uses PA66 nylon 6/6. Both materials meet UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and are suitable for the specified operating temperature ranges. Material selection does not affect connector compatibility.

Q: Is the wider operating temperature range of the substitute (-30°C ~ 105°C) a concern?

A: No. The substitute's extended upper temperature limit (105°C vs. 85°C) and slightly higher lower limit (-30°C vs. -35°C) do not create compatibility issues. Systems designed for the original part's temperature range operate safely within the substitute's specifications.

Q: Are there packaging differences between the two parts?

A: The original part packaging is not specified. The substitute is supplied in tray packaging. Packaging format does not affect connector form, fit, or function in PCB assembly.

Q: What is the inventory status for each part?

A: The original DF7-4P-3.96DSA(25) has 898 pieces in stock but is obsolete. The substitute 179840-1 has 3024 pieces in stock and maintains active product status, providing superior long-term availability.