TFC-120-02-F-D-LC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TFC-120-02-F-D-LC is a surface mount rectangular connector header manufactured by Samtec Inc. as part of the Tiger Eye™ TFC series. This 40-position, dual-row connector operates at 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch and is designed for board-to-board or cable applications with push-pull fastening. The connector is actively produced and widely stocked, with 953 units available in inventory. Finding equivalent or substitute parts may be necessary for supply chain optimization, design flexibility, or when primary sourcing becomes constrained.

Substiute Parts

TFC-120-02-F-D-LC

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1009TFC-120-02-F-D-LC Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

87409-120LF

Amphenol ICC (FCI)In Stock: 186887409-120LF Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Header with male pins
• Position Count & Row Configuration: 40 positions in 2 rows
• Pitch Specifications: 0.050" (1.27mm) mating pitch and row spacing
• Mounting & Termination: Surface mount with solder termination
• Shrouding & Fastening: 4-wall shrouded design with push-pull fastening
• Environmental Compliance: UL94 V-0 flammability rating and RoHS compliance

The substitute part 87409-120LF (Amphenol ICC/FCI Rib-Cage™ III series) meets all critical substitution criteria across these parameters, making it a valid equivalent for the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC in applications where these specifications are required.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC and 87409-120LF are active products with full RoHS compliance and UL94 V-0 flammability certification. The TFC-120-02-F-D-LC carries ROHS3 compliance, while the 87409-120LF carries standard RoHS compliance. Both connectors maintain MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity ratings, indicating no special handling requirements during storage or assembly.

The primary difference lies in insulation material composition: the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC uses Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP), while the 87409-120LF uses thermoplastic with glass reinforcement. The operating temperature range of the 87409-120LF extends to 130°C compared to 125°C for the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC. Contact length specifications are nominally equivalent (3.33mm vs. 3.30mm), and both maintain identical pitch, row spacing, and shrouding configurations.

Selection between these parts should be based on material compatibility requirements, thermal environment specifications, and supply chain availability. Both parts are suitable for general purpose and military applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 87409-120LF directly replace the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC in existing designs?

A: Yes, the 87409-120LF meets all critical substitution parameters: identical 40-position, dual-row configuration at 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch, surface mount termination, 4-wall shrouding, and push-pull fastening. Both maintain UL94 V-0 compliance and MSL 1 ratings. Physical and electrical compatibility is established across these core specifications.

Q: What are the differences in contact finish specifications?

A: The TFC-120-02-F-D-LC specifies gold mating contact finish at 3.00µin (0.076µm) thickness. The 87409-120LF offers gold or gold GXT™ finish at 30.0µin (0.76µm) thickness, providing thicker plating. Both use tin finish on solder posts. The thicker gold plating on the 87409-120LF may provide enhanced durability in high-cycle mating applications.

Q: Are there temperature rating differences that affect application suitability?

A: The 87409-120LF operates to 130°C, while the TFC-120-02-F-D-LC operates to 125°C. For applications requiring sustained operation above 125°C, the 87409-120LF provides additional thermal margin. Both parts maintain full performance across the -55°C lower temperature limit.

Q: How do the insulation materials differ?

A: The TFC-120-02-F-D-LC uses Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP), while the 87409-120LF uses thermoplastic with glass reinforcement. Both materials achieve UL94 V-0 flammability ratings. Material selection should align with specific environmental exposure, chemical compatibility, and mechanical stress requirements of the application.

Q: Are both parts available in equivalent inventory quantities?

A: The TFC-120-02-F-D-LC has 953 units in stock, while the 87409-120LF has 1800 units available. The 87409-120LF offers higher immediate availability for high-volume requirements.