DHS4C Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The DHS4C is a 4-position DIP slide switch manufactured by APEM Inc., designed for surface mount applications with SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) circuit configuration. This component operates at 6VDC with a 100mA current rating and features a flush, recessed slide actuator with gold-plated beryllium copper contacts. The DHS4C is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing design support and component procurement.

Substiute Parts

DHS4C

APEM Inc.In Stock: 1133DHS4C Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

DHS4-A

APEM Inc.In Stock: 1179DHS4-A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the DHS4C is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Criteria:

• Circuit configuration (SPST)
• Number of positions (4)
• Mounting type (Surface Mount)
• Termination style (Gull Wing)
• Pitch (0.050" / 1.27mm, Half)
• Actuator type (Slide, Standard)
• Actuator level (Flush, Recessed)

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• Current rating: Substitute must equal or exceed the original specification
• Voltage rating: Substitute must equal or exceed the original specification
• Operating temperature range: Substitute must encompass or exceed the original range
• Contact material and finish: May vary while maintaining electrical performance
• Body material: May vary while maintaining mechanical integrity
• Physical dimensions (length, height): Minor variations acceptable within PCB layout constraints

The DHS4-A qualifies as a substitute based on matching all mandatory criteria. Variations in current rating (25mA vs. 100mA), voltage rating (24VDC vs. 6VDC), contact material (Copper Alloy vs. Beryllium Copper), and body material (Polyamide vs. Polyphenylene Sulfide) are within allowable parameters for this product category.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The DHS4-A is available as an active product from APEM Inc., providing supply continuity for the obsolete DHS4C. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical moisture sensitivity ratings, ensuring regulatory and environmental consistency.

The DHS4-A operates at higher voltage (24VDC) and lower current (25mA) specifications compared to the DHS4C (6VDC, 100mA). Circuit design must verify that the substitute's electrical ratings are compatible with the application's actual operating conditions. The DHS4-A's extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C) provides broader thermal coverage than the original part.

Physical dimensions differ slightly: the DHS4-A measures 0.244" (6.20mm) in length versus the DHS4C at 0.268" (6.81mm). Both maintain identical height above board (0.087" / 2.20mm) and pitch specifications (0.050" / 1.27mm, Half), ensuring PCB footprint compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the DHS4-A directly replace the DHS4C in existing designs?

A: Direct replacement requires verification that the application's operating voltage and current do not exceed the DHS4-A's ratings (24VDC, 25mA). The DHS4C operates at 6VDC with 100mA capacity. If the circuit operates within the DHS4-A's specifications, physical and electrical compatibility is confirmed.

Q: What are the key differences between these two parts?

A: The primary differences are voltage rating (6VDC vs. 24VDC), current rating (100mA vs. 25mA), body material (PPS Glass Filled vs. Polyamide Nylon), and length (0.268" vs. 0.244"). All other functional parameters, including circuit configuration, position count, actuator type, and termination style, are identical.

Q: Are there any compliance or regulatory concerns with substitution?

A: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical moisture sensitivity levels (MSL 1, Unlimited). No regulatory barriers exist for substitution from a compliance perspective.

Q: How do the contact materials differ, and does this affect performance?

A: The DHS4C uses beryllium copper contacts while the DHS4-A uses copper alloy contacts. Both are gold-plated and rated for 1,000 electrical cycles. Contact material selection does not prevent functional substitution within the specified electrical parameters.

Q: Will the slightly shorter length of the DHS4-A affect PCB layout?

A: The DHS4-A is 0.024" (0.61mm) shorter than the DHS4C. This minor dimensional difference typically does not impact PCB layout, as both components maintain the same pitch and height above board specifications. Verify clearance in your specific layout if space constraints exist.