MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56) Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56) is a rectangular connector header manufactured by Hirose Electric Co Ltd, designed for through-hole, right-angle board-to-board applications with 12 positions at 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch. This part is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent models essential for ongoing design support and procurement continuity. The substitute part maintains functional compatibility while offering current product status and improved availability.

Substiute Parts

MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56)

Hirose Electric Co LtdIn Stock: 780MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56) Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96)

Hirose Electric Co LtdIn Stock: 1171MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96) Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96) qualifies as a direct substitute based on the following critical parameters that determine functional compatibility:

• Identical series designation (MDF7)
• Identical connector type (Header) and contact type (Male Pin)
• Identical number of positions (12) and mating pitch (0.100"/2.54mm)
• Identical mounting configuration (Through Hole, Right Angle)
• Identical electrical ratings (3A current, 250V voltage)
• Identical operating temperature range (-35°C ~ 85°C)
• Identical material specifications (Brass contacts, PBT insulation)
• Identical contact finish (Gold on mating surface)
• Identical compliance certifications (RoHS Compliant, UL94 V-0)

The primary distinction lies in product status: the substitute part is active and currently manufactured, whereas the original part is obsolete. The substitute also differs in packaging (Bag vs. unspecified) and application style (Board to Cable/Wire vs. Board to Board), with minor variations in contact length specifications within acceptable tolerances.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96) is the appropriate selection for applications currently using or specifying the MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56). The substitute part maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility while offering the advantage of active product status and current manufacturing support. Both parts carry identical compliance certifications (RoHS Compliant, UL94 V-0) and moisture sensitivity ratings, ensuring regulatory and reliability equivalence. The transition from obsolete to active status eliminates supply chain risk and ensures long-term component availability for production and field service applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96) directly replace MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56) in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical electrical ratings (3A, 250V), mechanical configuration (12-position, 0.100" pitch, through-hole right-angle), contact materials (brass with gold finish), and operating temperature range (-35°C ~ 85°C). The parts are functionally equivalent for board-level applications.

Q: What is the significance of the different part number suffixes (56 vs. 96)?

A: The suffix designates the manufacturing batch or variant code assigned by Hirose Electric. The MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96) represents the current active production variant, while MDF7-12P-2.54DS(56) is no longer manufactured.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: The MDF7-12P-2.54DS(96) is supplied in Bag packaging. Packaging does not affect electrical or mechanical performance and is determined by procurement and logistics requirements.

Q: Do both parts meet the same compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both parts are RoHS Compliant and carry UL94 V-0 material flammability rating. Moisture sensitivity level is identical at MSL 1 (Unlimited) for both variants.

Q: What should be considered when transitioning from the obsolete part to the active substitute?

A: Verify that your PCB footprint and connector mating interface accommodate the minor contact length variation (0.292" vs. 0.293" mating contact length). This difference is within standard manufacturing tolerances and does not affect mechanical fit or electrical performance. Confirm that your application design accepts the active part's board-to-cable/wire application style if your original design specified board-to-board configuration.