FH21-18S-1DSA Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The FH21-18S-1DSA is an 18-position FFC/FPC vertical connector manufactured by Hirose Electric Co Ltd with 1.00mm pitch and through-hole mounting. This connector features low insertion force (LIF) operation, phosphor bronze contacts with solder plating, and a PBT housing rated UL94 V-0. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for ongoing system support and procurement.

Substiute Parts

FH21-18S-1DSA

Hirose Electric Co LtdIn Stock: 874FH21-18S-1DSA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0528061810

MolexIn Stock: 49650528061810 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the FH21-18S-1DSA is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Position Count: 18 positions (exact match required)
• Pitch: 0.039" (1.00mm) (exact match required)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (exact match required)
• Voltage Rating: 50V minimum (equal or higher acceptable)
• Current Rating: 0.5A minimum (equal or higher acceptable)
• Material Flammability: UL94 V-0 (exact match required)
• Termination Type: Kinked Pin (exact match required)
• FFC/FCB Thickness: 0.30mm (exact match required)

The Molex 0528061810 meets all critical substitution criteria. While it differs in contact configuration (1-sided versus 2-sided), housing material (PPS versus PBT), and contact finish (tin versus solder plating), these variations remain within acceptable electrical and mechanical parameters for this connector category.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Molex 0528061810 is the qualified substitute for the obsolete FH21-18S-1DSA. Selection is based on:

• Product Status: The Molex part is active and in production, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.
• Compliance: The Molex 0528061810 achieves ROHS3 compliance, providing regulatory advantage over the non-compliant Hirose original.
• Electrical Equivalence: Both connectors maintain identical voltage (50V) and current (0.5A) ratings with matching pitch and position count.
• Mechanical Compatibility: Through-hole mounting, kinked pin termination, and 0.30mm FFC/FCB thickness are identical across both parts.
• Certification: Both parts carry UL94 V-0 flammability rating and REACH unaffected status.

The Molex substitute operates across a wider temperature range (-20°C ~ 80°C versus -30°C ~ 70°C), providing enhanced thermal performance for extended operating conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Molex 0528061810 directly replace the Hirose FH21-18S-1DSA in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical pitch (1.00mm), position count (18), mounting type (through hole), and electrical ratings (50V, 0.5A). The kinked pin termination and 0.30mm FFC/FCB thickness are matched specifications.

Q: What is the difference between 1-sided and 2-sided contact configuration?

A: The FH21-18S-1DSA features 2-sided contacts, while the 0528061810 features 1-sided contacts. This refers to the contact arrangement within the connector housing. Both configurations support the same 18-position, 1.00mm pitch interface and maintain equivalent electrical performance for this application category.

Q: Does the housing material difference (PBT versus PPS) affect compatibility?

A: No. Both polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) are engineering thermoplastics rated UL94 V-0. Both materials provide equivalent mechanical strength, thermal stability, and flammability performance for this connector class.

Q: What is the significance of the Molex part achieving ROHS3 compliance?

A: ROHS3 compliance indicates the Molex 0528061810 meets current European Union Restriction of Hazardous Substances regulations. The original Hirose part is non-compliant. For new designs or systems requiring regulatory compliance, the Molex substitute is the appropriate selection.

Q: Are there packaging differences between the original and substitute?

A: The Molex 0528061810 is supplied in tray packaging. Packaging format does not affect connector functionality or electrical performance.

Q: How do the operating temperature ranges compare?

A: The Molex 0528061810 operates across -20°C ~ 80°C, compared to the Hirose original at -30°C ~ 70°C. The Molex part provides a 10°C advantage at the upper temperature limit, supporting applications requiring extended thermal performance.