Samtec TFM-120-32-S-D Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Samtec TFM-120-32-S-D is a surface mount rectangular connector header from the Tiger Eye™ TFM series, featuring 40 positions at 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch with shrouded 4-wall design. This connector is Active status and widely used in board-to-board applications requiring reliable push-pull fastening and gold-plated mating contacts. Alternative models within the TFM-120 series are available to accommodate different insulation heights, mounting features, and mechanical specifications while maintaining core electrical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

TFM-120-32-S-D

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 873TFM-120-32-S-D Datasheet

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TFM-120-12-S-D

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 983TFM-120-12-S-D Datasheet

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TFM-120-12-S-D-A

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 2037TFM-120-12-S-D-A Datasheet

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TFM-120-22-S-D-A

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1151TFM-120-22-S-D-A Datasheet

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TFM-120-22-S-D-LC

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1252TFM-120-22-S-D-LC Datasheet

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TFM-120-22-SM-D-A-P

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 855TFM-120-22-SM-D-A-P Datasheet

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TFM-120-32-S-D-A

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1213TFM-120-32-S-D-A Datasheet

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TFM-120-32-S-D-A-K

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 860TFM-120-32-S-D-A-K Datasheet

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TFM-120-32-S-D-LC

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1229TFM-120-32-S-D-LC Datasheet

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TFM-120-12-S-D-LC

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1080TFM-120-12-S-D-LC Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution within the TFM-120 series is determined by three primary parameters: insulation height, mechanical features (Board Guide, Board Lock, Pick and Place), and contact finish specifications. All substitute parts maintain identical electrical characteristics (40 positions, 0.050" pitch, 2.9A per contact, 275VAC rating) and core mechanical design (shrouded 4-wall, surface mount, push-pull fastening).

The TFM-120-32-S-D baseline model features 0.435" (11.05mm) insulation height without additional mechanical features. Substitutes are grouped as follows:

Group 1 - Reduced Insulation Height (0.290" / 7.37mm): TFM-120-12-S-D and TFM-120-12-S-D-LC accommodate applications requiring lower profile connectors while maintaining all electrical specifications.

Group 2 - Mid-Range Insulation Height (0.360" / 9.14mm): TFM-120-22-S-D-A, TFM-120-22-S-D-LC, and TFM-120-22-SM-D-A-P provide intermediate height options with optional Board Guide or Board Lock features.

Group 3 - Full Insulation Height (0.435" / 11.05mm): TFM-120-32-S-D-A, TFM-120-32-S-D-A-K, and TFM-120-32-S-D-LC match the baseline height with optional Board Guide, Pick and Place, or Board Lock features.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

All substitute parts listed maintain Active product status and ROHS3 compliance, ensuring long-term availability and regulatory alignment. Selection between substitutes depends on mechanical space constraints and board-level integration requirements.

For applications with space limitations, the TFM-120-12-S-D series (0.290" height) provides the most compact profile. The TFM-120-22 series (0.360" height) offers intermediate spacing for standard PCB layouts. The TFM-120-32 series (0.435" height) maintains the baseline specification and is suitable for applications without height restrictions.

Mechanical features (Board Guide, Board Lock, Pick and Place) do not alter electrical performance but affect assembly process compatibility and connector retention. Board Guide variants support automated pick-and-place equipment. Board Lock variants provide enhanced mechanical retention. Selection should align with manufacturing process capabilities and assembly equipment specifications.

All parts share identical electrical ratings, contact materials (Phosphor Bronze with gold plating), insulation material (Liquid Crystal Polymer), and environmental specifications (-55°C to 125°C operating range, UL94 V-0 flammability rating, MSL 1).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can TFM-120-12-S-D replace TFM-120-32-S-D in my application?

A: Electrical compatibility is maintained. The primary difference is insulation height: TFM-120-12-S-D measures 0.290" versus 0.435" for TFM-120-32-S-D. Substitution is valid only if your PCB layout accommodates the reduced height and mating connector clearance is verified.

Q: What is the difference between Board Guide and Board Lock features?

A: Board Guide (suffix -A) provides alignment assistance during mating. Board Lock (suffix -LC) provides mechanical retention after mating. Both maintain identical electrical specifications. Selection depends on assembly process requirements and whether positive locking is required for your application.

Q: Are all TFM-120 variants electrically interchangeable?

A: Yes. All variants maintain 40 positions, 0.050" pitch, 2.9A per contact rating, and 275VAC voltage rating. Differences are mechanical (insulation height, fastening features) only. Electrical performance is identical across the series.

Q: What does the Pick and Place feature indicate?

A: Pick and Place (suffix -K or -P) indicates the connector includes features compatible with automated assembly equipment. This does not affect electrical performance but supports high-volume manufacturing processes.

Q: Can I use TFM-120-22-S-D-A in place of TFM-120-32-S-D?

A: Electrical compatibility is maintained. The insulation height differs: TFM-120-22-S-D-A measures 0.360" versus 0.435" for TFM-120-32-S-D. Additionally, TFM-120-22-S-D-A includes Board Guide feature. Substitution requires verification that your PCB layout and mating connector accommodate the height difference.

Q: Are all parts ROHS3 compliant?

A: Yes. All listed substitute parts are ROHS3 compliant with Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (unlimited shelf life). Compliance status is consistent across the TFM-120 series.