TFM-120-31-L-D-A Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TFM-120-31-L-D-A is a rectangular connector header manufactured by Samtec Inc. as part of the Tiger Eye™ TFM series. This through-hole mounted connector features 40 positions arranged in 2 rows with 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch, designed for board-to-board or cable applications. The part is currently active in production with full inventory availability. Substitute parts are identified to provide alternative sourcing options when the primary part number is unavailable or when design flexibility permits component selection from equivalent alternatives within the same product family.

Substiute Parts

TFM-120-31-L-D-A

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 782TFM-120-31-L-D-A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TFM-120-21-L-D-A

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1301TFM-120-21-L-D-A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The TFM-120-31-L-D-A has one identified substitute within the Tiger Eye™ TFM series: TFM-120-21-L-D-A. Both parts share identical electrical and functional specifications across all critical parameters that determine connector compatibility and interchangeability:

• Connector type, contact type, and gender (Header, Male Pin)
• Position count and row configuration (40 positions, 2 rows)
• Mating pitch and row spacing (0.050" / 1.27mm)
• Mounting method and termination (Through Hole, Solder)
• Fastening mechanism (Push-Pull)
• Shrouding configuration (Shrouded - 4 Wall)
• Electrical ratings (2.9A per contact, 275VAC)
• Operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C)
• Material compliance (ROHS3, UL94 V-0)

The primary difference between these parts is the insulation height dimension, which affects board-level spacing but does not impact electrical or mechanical compatibility for standard applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both TFM-120-31-L-D-A and TFM-120-21-L-D-A are active production parts with ROHS3 compliance and UL94 V-0 material certification. Selection between these parts should be based on the specific insulation height requirement for your application. The TFM-120-31-L-D-A provides 0.435" (11.05mm) insulation height, while the TFM-120-21-L-D-A provides 0.360" (9.14mm) insulation height. Both parts maintain identical electrical performance, contact ratings, and environmental specifications. Inventory availability should also be considered: TFM-120-21-L-D-A currently has higher stock levels (1196 pcs) compared to TFM-120-31-L-D-A (707 pcs).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can TFM-120-21-L-D-A be used as a direct replacement for TFM-120-31-L-D-A?

A: Yes, provided your PCB layout accommodates the reduced insulation height of 0.360" (9.14mm) versus 0.435" (11.05mm). All electrical and mechanical specifications are identical, including contact ratings, pitch, row spacing, and fastening type.

Q: What is the significance of the insulation height difference?

A: Insulation height determines the vertical clearance between the connector body and the PCB surface. The TFM-120-31-L-D-A offers greater clearance, which may be necessary in applications with space constraints above the board or specific mechanical requirements. The TFM-120-21-L-D-A provides a more compact profile.

Q: Are both parts suitable for the same current and voltage applications?

A: Yes. Both parts are rated for 2.9A per contact and 275VAC, with identical operating temperature ranges of -55°C to 125°C.

Q: Do these connectors require specific mating components?

A: Both parts are Tiger Eye™ TFM series headers designed for board-to-board or cable applications with matching TFM series receptacles or cable assemblies. The identical pitch (0.050"), row spacing, and position count ensure compatibility with the same mating components.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for these parts?

A: Both parts have MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions for storage or handling.