MH3101S-CAT5E Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MH3101S-CAT5E is a shielded modular coupler connector manufactured by MH Connectors, designed for Cat5e Ethernet applications. This component functions as an 8p8c (RJ45) jack-to-jack coupler with panel mount capability, featuring shielding for electromagnetic interference protection. The part is currently in active product status with 987 units available in inventory. Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical parameters are required due to supply constraints, inventory availability, or application-specific packaging preferences.

Substiute Parts

MH3101S-CAT5E

MH ConnectorsIn Stock: 1089MH3101S-CAT5E Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SS-82000-004

Bel Inc.In Stock: 2538SS-82000-004 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MH3101S-CAT5E are identified based on the following critical parameters that determine functional equivalence:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Connector configuration: Jack 8p8c (RJ45) to Jack 8p8c (RJ45)
• Category rating: Cat5e
• Contact material: Phosphor Bronze
• Contact finish: Gold

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Mounting type: Panel Mount
• Features: Panel Lock, Panel Stops
• Housing material: Thermoplastic

Regulatory Compliance Parameters:

• RoHS3 Compliant
• MSL 1 (Unlimited)
• REACH Unaffected

The substitute part SS-82000-004 satisfies all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. The primary difference is the shielding configuration: the main part features shielded construction while the substitute is unshielded. This distinction affects electromagnetic interference performance but does not prevent functional substitution in applications where shielding is not a mandatory requirement.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: MH3101S-CAT5E

The MH3101S-CAT5E is the specified component and remains the primary selection when shielded Cat5e coupler performance is required. This part is active in production, ROHS3 compliant, and maintains adequate inventory levels.

Substitute Selection: SS-82000-004

The SS-82000-004 serves as a functional substitute when the following conditions are met:

• Shielding is not a mandatory requirement for the application
• Keystone-style modular insert form factor is acceptable
• Cat5e electrical performance is sufficient
• Panel mount configuration with panel lock and panel stops is required

Both parts maintain identical RoHS3 compliance and MSL 1 ratings, ensuring regulatory equivalence. The SS-82000-004 offers higher inventory availability (2474 units versus 987 units), which may be advantageous for supply chain planning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SS-82000-004 replace MH3101S-CAT5E in all applications?

A: No. The SS-82000-004 is unshielded while the MH3101S-CAT5E is shielded. Substitution is valid only in applications where electromagnetic interference shielding is not required. Both parts maintain identical Cat5e electrical ratings and panel mount features.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two parts?

A: The main difference is shielding configuration. The MH3101S-CAT5E includes shielding with stainless steel shield material, while the SS-82000-004 is unshielded. Both use phosphor bronze contacts with gold finish and support Cat5e performance.

Q: Are both parts RoHS3 compliant?

A: Yes. Both MH3101S-CAT5E and SS-82000-004 are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements.

Q: What is the difference between the coupler style and keystone insert style?

A: The MH3101S-CAT5E is a traditional modular coupler connector, while the SS-82000-004 is a keystone-style modular insert. Both function as jack-to-jack couplers with panel mount capability, but the keystone format may require different panel cutout specifications.

Q: Can I use the unshielded substitute in a shielded application?

A: No. If electromagnetic interference protection is required, the shielded MH3101S-CAT5E must be used. The unshielded SS-82000-004 does not provide equivalent shielding performance.

Q: Are the contact finish thicknesses equivalent?

A: The SS-82000-004 specifies exterior contact finish thickness of 50µin (1.27µm). The MH3101S-CAT5E contact finish thickness is not specified in the provided data. Both use gold finish on phosphor bronze contacts.

Q: Which part should I select for new designs?

A: For new designs requiring shielded Cat5e coupler performance with panel mount features, specify the MH3101S-CAT5E. If shielding is not required and keystone insert compatibility is acceptable, the SS-82000-004 is a valid alternative.