P50-068S-TG Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The P50-068S-TG is a 68-position rectangular socket connector manufactured by 3M, designed for IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) termination with ribbon cable. This connector features gold-plated contacts rated for 28 AWG wire and is configured as a free-hanging, in-line component with latch lock fastening. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute parts essential for ongoing system maintenance and component sourcing.

Substiute Parts

P50-068S-TG

3MIn Stock: 799P50-068S-TG Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P25LE-068S-DA

3MIn Stock: 1170P25LE-068S-DA Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the P50-068S-TG is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Position Count: Socket configuration with 68 positions is mandatory for mechanical and electrical compatibility.
• Pitch & Row Configuration: 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch with 2-row arrangement ensures physical fit within existing assemblies.
• Mounting & Termination: Free-hanging in-line mounting with IDC cable termination must be preserved.
• Contact Finish: Gold plating is required for electrical performance and corrosion resistance.
• Wire Gauge Compatibility: The substitute part must accommodate the wire gauge range of the original application.

The P25LE-068S-DA qualifies as a substitute based on matching all critical parameters: identical position count, pitch, row configuration, mounting type, IDC termination, and gold contact finish. Variations in wire gauge (30 AWG vs. 28 AWG), fastening mechanism enhancements, and RoHS compliance represent improvements rather than incompatibilities.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The P25LE-068S-DA is the designated substitute for the obsolete P50-068S-TG. Selection of this substitute is supported by the following factors:

Product Status: The P25LE-068S-DA maintains active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity compared to the obsolete P50-068S-TG.

Regulatory Compliance: The P25LE-068S-DA achieves RoHS compliance, aligning with current environmental and regulatory requirements. The original P50-068S-TG does not meet RoHS standards.

Mechanical Compatibility: Both connectors share identical pitch, position count, row configuration, and mounting type, ensuring direct physical compatibility within existing assemblies.

Electrical Performance: Both parts feature gold contact finish and IDC termination for ribbon cable, maintaining electrical performance characteristics.

Wire Gauge Consideration: The P25LE-068S-DA accommodates 30 AWG wire, which is compatible with applications originally designed for 28 AWG. The finer gauge represents a capability enhancement rather than a limitation.

Enhanced Features: The P25LE-068S-DA includes eject hooks in addition to latch lock fastening and incorporates strain relief, providing improved mechanical robustness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P25LE-068S-DA directly replace the P50-068S-TG in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical pitch (0.050"), position count (68), row configuration (2 rows), and mounting type (free-hanging in-line). Physical and electrical compatibility is maintained.

Q: What is the significance of the wire gauge difference (28 AWG vs. 30 AWG)?

A: The P25LE-068S-DA is rated for 30 AWG wire, which is finer than the original 28 AWG specification. IDC connectors designed for finer gauges are mechanically and electrically compatible with coarser gauges. This represents a capability enhancement.

Q: Does the RoHS compliance difference affect substitution?

A: The P25LE-068S-DA's RoHS compliance is an advantage for new designs and systems subject to environmental regulations. For legacy systems using the obsolete P50-068S-TG, the substitute provides regulatory alignment without compromising functionality.

Q: Are the fastening mechanisms compatible?

A: The P50-068S-TG uses latch lock fastening. The P25LE-068S-DA incorporates both latch lock and eject hooks. This enhancement improves mechanical retention and does not compromise compatibility with existing mating components designed for latch lock operation.

Q: What is the packaging difference?

A: The P50-068S-TG is supplied in standard packaging, while the P25LE-068S-DA is supplied in bulk packaging. This affects order quantities and handling but does not impact component functionality or compatibility.

Q: Is the contact finish thickness difference significant?

A: The P50-068S-TG specifies 10.0µin (0.25µm) gold plating, while the P25LE-068S-DA specifies flash gold plating. Both provide adequate corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity for IDC applications. Flash plating is a standard specification for modern connector designs.