TA5M Mini XLR 5-Position Circular Connector Receptacle

Part Overview

The TA5M is a 5-position circular connector receptacle with male pins, manufactured by Switchcraft Inc. as part of the Tini Q-G® TA series. This connector is designed for audio applications requiring shielded, solder-terminated connections with latch lock fastening. The TA5M is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations.

Substiute Parts

TA5M

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 1126TA5M Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TA5MX

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 907TA5MX Datasheet

DirectRFQ

AG5M

Amphenol AudioIn Stock: 1185AG5M Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the TA5M are identified based on the following critical parameters that determine functional compatibility:

Primary Compatibility Criteria:

• Connector type: Receptacle with male pins
• Position count: 5 positions
• Shell size: Mini XLR form factor
• Termination: Solder-based connection method
• Fastening: Keyed orientation with latch mechanism
• Current and voltage ratings: 4A at 125VAC minimum

Identified Substitutes:

Direct Substitute - TA5MX (Switchcraft Inc.): Maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications to the TA5M within the same manufacturer series (Tini Q-G® TA-X). The TA5MX is an active product with current availability and RoHS3 compliance, providing a direct replacement path for obsolete TA5M units.

Similar Substitute - AG5M (Amphenol Audio): Provides equivalent 5-position Mini XLR receptacle functionality with male pins and solder termination. The AG5M operates within the same electrical parameters (4A current rating) and maintains Mini XLR mechanical compatibility. Differences in shielding configuration and contact finish require evaluation for specific application requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

TA5MX Selection: The TA5MX is the primary recommended substitute for TA5M applications. As an active product from the same manufacturer with identical electrical specifications, mechanical form factor, and shielding characteristics, the TA5MX provides direct functional equivalence. The TA5MX achieves RoHS3 compliance, addressing regulatory requirements that the obsolete TA5M does not meet. Temperature range and cable opening specifications remain unchanged, ensuring compatibility with existing mechanical and thermal design parameters.

AG5M Selection: The AG5M serves as an alternative substitute where Amphenol Audio components are preferred or where supply chain considerations favor this manufacturer. The AG5M maintains the 5-position Mini XLR receptacle configuration and 4A current rating. The AG5M is unshielded, which represents a functional difference from the shielded TA5M design. Applications requiring shielded signal paths should verify that unshielded operation is acceptable. The AG5M operates within a narrower temperature range (-30°C to 80°C) compared to the TA5M (-55°C to 85°C), requiring thermal environment validation for low-temperature applications. The AG5M achieves RoHS3 compliance and carries MSL 1 moisture sensitivity rating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can TA5MX be used as a direct replacement for TA5M in existing designs?

A: Yes. The TA5MX maintains identical specifications for connector type, position count, shell size, termination method, fastening type, shielding, current rating, voltage rating, operating temperature range, and cable opening dimensions. No design modifications are required for mechanical or electrical integration.

Q: What is the primary difference between TA5MX and AG5M?

A: The TA5MX is shielded; the AG5M is unshielded. For audio applications where electromagnetic interference rejection is required, the TA5MX maintains the shielded design of the original TA5M. The AG5M operates within a narrower temperature range (-30°C to 80°C versus -55°C to 85°C). Both maintain 4A current rating and Mini XLR mechanical compatibility.

Q: Are both substitute parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both TA5MX and AG5M are RoHS3 compliant. The original TA5M is RoHS non-compliant. Selection of either substitute addresses regulatory compliance requirements for new production or system updates.

Q: Does cable opening specification differ between substitutes?

A: The TA5MX maintains the TA5M cable opening range of 0.065" to 0.155" (1.65mm to 3.94mm). The AG5M specifies a fixed cable opening of 0.138" (4.60mm), which falls within the TA5M range but offers less flexibility for varying cable diameters. Verify cable diameter compatibility with AG5M if this substitute is selected.

Q: What termination differences exist between TA5MX and AG5M?

A: Both use solder-based termination. The TA5MX uses solder termination; the AG5M uses solder cup termination. Both methods are compatible with standard PCB assembly processes. Solder cup design may provide slightly different mechanical strain relief characteristics.