SFW20R-2STE9LF Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SFW20R-2STE9LF is a 20-position FFC/FPC connector manufactured by Amphenol ICC (FCI) with top-mounted contacts, right-angle surface mount configuration, and 1.00mm pitch. This connector features zero insertion force (ZIF) operation with slide lock mechanism and is designed for flat flexible cable applications. The product is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for ongoing design support and component sourcing.

Substiute Parts

SFW20R-2STE9LF

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 1042SFW20R-2STE9LF Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FFC3B11-20-T

GCTIn Stock: 2657FFC3B11-20-T Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for FFC/FPC connectors is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Number of Positions: 20
• Pitch: 0.039" (1.00mm)
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount, Right Angle
• Connector/Contact Type: Contacts, Top
• Termination: Solder
• Locking Feature: Slide Lock

Allowable Parameter Variations:

• Height Above Board: Variation acceptable within mechanical envelope constraints
• Voltage Rating: Substitute may have lower rating if application requirements are met
• Current Rating: Substitute may have lower rating if application requirements are met
• Operating Temperature: Substitute may have narrower range if application requirements are met
• Housing/Actuator Material: Variation acceptable if mechanical and electrical properties are maintained
• FFC/FCB Thickness: Variation acceptable within 0.30mm to 0.33mm range

The FFC3B11-20-T from GCT meets all mandatory matching parameters and qualifies as a direct substitute for the obsolete SFW20R-2STE9LF.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The FFC3B11-20-T is the qualified substitute for the obsolete SFW20R-2STE9LF based on the following engineering criteria:

Functional Compatibility: Both connectors share identical mechanical and electrical interface specifications: 20 positions, 1.00mm pitch, top-mounted contacts, right-angle surface mount, solder termination, and slide lock mechanism. The 0.16mm difference in height above board (2.70mm vs. 2.50mm) falls within acceptable mechanical envelope tolerances for FFC/FPC applications.

Compliance Status: The FFC3B11-20-T holds ROHS3 Compliant certification, exceeding the RoHS Compliant status of the obsolete part. Both connectors meet UL94 V-0 flammability requirements and share identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications.

Electrical Derating Consideration: The FFC3B11-20-T has lower voltage (50V vs. 100V) and current (0.4A vs. 1A) ratings. Substitution is valid only when application requirements do not exceed these lower ratings.

Temperature Range Consideration: The FFC3B11-20-T operates within -25°C to 85°C, narrower than the original -55°C to 105°C range. Substitution is valid only when application requirements fall within this narrower operating window.

Availability: The FFC3B11-20-T is in active production status with 2590 units in stock, ensuring long-term component availability compared to the obsolete SFW20R-2STE9LF.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the FFC3B11-20-T directly replace the SFW20R-2STE9LF in all applications?

A: Direct substitution is valid only when application requirements do not exceed the FFC3B11-20-T electrical and thermal specifications: maximum 50V voltage, maximum 0.4A current, and operating temperature range of -25°C to 85°C. If the original design operates within these parameters, substitution is compatible.

Q: What is the significance of the 0.16mm height difference between the two connectors?

A: The SFW20R-2STE9LF has a height of 2.70mm while the FFC3B11-20-T measures 2.50mm above the board. This difference is within typical mechanical envelope tolerances for FFC/FPC connector applications and does not affect electrical performance. Verify that your PCB layout and mechanical assembly accommodate this reduced height.

Q: Are the packaging formats compatible?

A: The SFW20R-2STE9LF packaging is not specified in the provided data. The FFC3B11-20-T is supplied in Tape & Reel (TR) format. Confirm that your assembly process can accommodate tape and reel packaging.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the substitute part?

A: The FFC3B11-20-T is ROHS3 Compliant, UL94 V-0 rated for flammability, and classified as EAR99 for export control purposes. Both connectors share identical HTSUS classification (8536.69.4051) and unlimited moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1).

Q: Are there any design considerations for the FFC thickness compatibility?

A: The FFC3B11-20-T supports 0.30mm FFC/FCB thickness. The original SFW20R-2STE9LF supports both 0.30mm and 0.33mm thicknesses. If your design uses 0.33mm FFC material, verify mechanical compatibility with the substitute connector before implementation.