TFM-125-12-S-D Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TFM-125-12-S-D is a surface mount rectangular connector header manufactured by Samtec Inc. as part of the Tiger Eye™ TFM series. This 50-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 stocked with 839 units available. Alternative components may be required due to design constraints, supply chain considerations, or specific application requirements such as current rating specifications or operating temperature ranges.

Substiute Parts

TFM-125-12-S-D

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 853TFM-125-12-S-D Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

5-104656-5

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 10785-104656-5 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TFM-125-12-S-D is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

• Connector Type & Contact Configuration: Header with male pins
• Position Count & Row Configuration: 50 positions in 2 rows
• Mating Pitch & Row Spacing: 0.050" (1.27mm) on both axes
• Mounting & Termination: Surface mount with solder termination
• Shrouding & Fastening: Shrouded 4-wall design with push-pull fastening
• Insulation & Contact Materials: Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) insulation with phosphor bronze contacts
• Contact Finish: Gold mating surface with tin post finish
• Electrical & Environmental Compliance: UL94 V-0 flammability rating, ROHS3 compliance, MSL 1

The substitute part 5-104656-5 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors) meets the core mechanical and electrical interface requirements. However, specific parameter variations exist that must be evaluated for application compatibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 5-104656-5 (TE Connectivity) is mechanically and electrically compatible as a substitute for the TFM-125-12-S-D in applications where the following conditions are met:

Current Rating Compatibility: The TFM-125-12-S-D supports 2.9A per contact, while the 5-104656-5 supports 0.5A per contact. Substitution is appropriate only for applications requiring ≤0.5A per contact.

Operating Temperature Range: The TFM-125-12-S-D operates from -55°C to 125°C, while the 5-104656-5 operates from -65°C to 105°C. Substitution is appropriate for applications within the -65°C to 105°C range. Applications requiring operation above 105°C or below -65°C require the TFM-125-12-S-D.

Contact Geometry: The TFM-125-12-S-D features square contacts with 0.139" (4.63mm) mating length, while the 5-104656-5 features circular contacts with 0.120" (3.05mm) mating length. Both designs maintain 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch compatibility and 4-wall shrouding.

Compliance & Certifications: Both connectors are UL94 V-0 rated, RoHS compliant, MSL 1, and classified as EAR99 export control. Both share identical HTSUS classification (8536.69.4040).

Product Status: Both components are active production items with current inventory availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 5-104656-5 be used as a direct replacement for the TFM-125-12-S-D?

A: Mechanical and electrical interface compatibility exists. However, the 5-104656-5 has a significantly lower current rating (0.5A vs. 2.9A per contact) and a narrower operating temperature range (-65°C to 105°C vs. -55°C to 125°C). Substitution is valid only when application requirements fall within these limits.

Q: What are the key differences between these two connectors?

A: Primary differences include current rating, operating temperature range, contact shape (square vs. circular), contact mating length (0.139" vs. 0.120"), and insulation height (0.290" vs. 0.298"). Both maintain identical 0.050" (1.27mm) pitch, 50-position, dual-row configuration with 4-wall shrouding and push-pull fastening.

Q: Are both connectors RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The TFM-125-12-S-D is ROHS3 compliant, and the 5-104656-5 is RoHS compliant. Both meet regulatory requirements for hazardous substance restrictions.

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

A: Both connectors are rated MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions during storage or handling.

Q: Do these connectors have the same contact finish specifications?

A: Both feature gold mating surface finish at 30.0µin (0.76µm) thickness and tin post finish. The 5-104656-5 specifies post finish thickness at 150.0µin (3.81µm), while the TFM-125-12-S-D does not specify this parameter.

Q: What applications are supported by the 5-104656-5?

A: The 5-104656-5 is specified for automotive, general purpose, medical, military, and telecommunications applications.

Q: Are both connectors surface mount components?

A: Yes. Both the TFM-125-12-S-D and 5-104656-5 are surface mount connectors with solder termination.