TSW-115-14-F-S Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TSW-115-14-F-S is a Classic PCB Header Strip manufactured by Samtec Inc., designed for through-hole board-to-board or cable connections. This unshrouded, single-row header features 15 positions at 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch with gold-plated mating contacts and tin-plated posts. The component maintains Active product status with 821 units in current inventory.

Substitute parts become necessary when the primary component experiences supply constraints, extended lead times, or when design requirements permit alternative configurations that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility within specified parameters.

Substiute Parts

TSW-115-14-F-S

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 846TSW-115-14-F-S Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

4-103321-0

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 10234-103321-0 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TSW-115-14-F-S is determined by strict adherence to the following critical parameters:

Primary Compatibility Criteria:

• Pitch - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm) — exact match required
• Connector Type: Header with male pin contacts
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Termination: Solder
• Contact Shape: Square
• Number of Rows: 1

Secondary Compatibility Criteria:

• Number of Positions: Must accommodate or exceed 15 positions
• Shrouding: Unshrouded configuration
• Insulation Material: PBT or equivalent thermoplastic
• Operating Temperature Range: Must encompass or exceed -55°C ~ 125°C
• Material Flammability Rating: UL94 V-0 minimum

The substitute part 4-103321-0 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors) shares the fundamental pitch, connector type, mounting method, and termination approach. However, this part features 40 positions rather than 15, operates within a narrower temperature range (-65°C ~ 105°C), and carries Obsolete product status. The part is suitable for applications where excess positions can be utilized or removed through breakaway configuration, and where the reduced upper operating temperature limit does not conflict with system requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: TSW-115-14-F-S

The TSW-115-14-F-S maintains Active product status with current manufacturing support, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. This component is ROHS3 compliant, meeting current regulatory requirements for new designs. The gold-plated mating contacts provide superior corrosion resistance compared to tin-lead alternatives. The operating temperature range of -55°C ~ 125°C accommodates extended industrial and military applications. Selection of this part is recommended for all new designs and applications where supply continuity is a priority.

Conditional Substitute: 4-103321-0

The 4-103321-0 may be considered only when all of the following conditions are met:

1. The application requires 40 positions or can utilize the breakaway feature to reduce the connector to 15 positions
2. The maximum operating temperature requirement does not exceed 105°C
3. The design can accommodate the 0.25mm reduction in insulation height
4. The design can accommodate the 0.39mm increase in post length
5. The application accepts tin-lead contact finishes in place of gold
6. Supply of the primary part is unavailable and project timeline permits use of an obsolete component
7. RoHS compliance is not a design requirement

The Obsolete product status of 4-103321-0 indicates discontinued manufacturing. This part should be selected only as a temporary expedient measure and not for new production designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 4-103321-0 be used as a direct replacement for the TSW-115-14-F-S?

A: The 4-103321-0 is not a direct replacement. While both connectors share the same 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch, single-row configuration, and through-hole solder termination, the substitute part features 40 positions instead of 15. The substitute's breakaway feature allows removal of excess positions, but this requires mechanical modification. Additionally, the substitute operates at a maximum temperature of 105°C compared to the main part's 125°C, and uses tin-lead contact finishes instead of gold.

Q: What are the critical parameters that determine substitution eligibility?

A: Substitution eligibility is determined by: (1) Pitch - Mating of 0.100" (2.54mm), (2) Header connector type with male pin contacts, (3) Through-hole mounting, (4) Solder termination, (5) Square contact shape, (6) Single-row configuration, (7) Unshrouded design, and (8) UL94 V-0 flammability rating. Any deviation from these parameters requires engineering evaluation.

Q: Why does the substitute part have 40 positions instead of 15?

A: The 4-103321-0 is designed as a modular connector system with breakaway capability. The 40-position configuration allows users to separate the connector into smaller segments as needed. For applications requiring exactly 15 positions, the connector can be broken away to the required length, though this requires mechanical modification and is not recommended for production applications.

Q: What is the significance of the contact finish difference between gold and tin-lead?

A: Gold plating on the TSW-115-14-F-S mating contacts provides superior corrosion resistance, particularly in humid or corrosive environments. Tin-lead finishes on the 4-103321-0 are more susceptible to oxidation and tarnishing over time. For applications requiring long-term reliability or exposure to harsh environments, the gold-plated main part is preferred.

Q: Why is the operating temperature range different?

A: The TSW-115-14-F-S operates from -55°C to 125°C, while the 4-103321-0 operates from -65°C to 105°C. The substitute part has a lower maximum temperature rating, which may be insufficient for applications requiring operation at elevated temperatures. This difference reflects different material formulations and design specifications between manufacturers.

Q: What does "Obsolete" product status mean for the substitute part?

A: Obsolete status indicates that the 4-103321-0 is no longer manufactured by TE Connectivity. While inventory may currently be available, future supply cannot be guaranteed. New designs should not incorporate obsolete components. The substitute should be considered only as a temporary expedient when the primary part is unavailable and project timelines do not permit waiting for restocking.

Q: Is the 4-103321-0 RoHS compliant?

A: The 4-103321-0 RoHS status is listed as "Not applicable," indicating it was manufactured before RoHS compliance became a requirement or that the manufacturer did not certify compliance. The TSW-115-14-F-S is ROHS3 compliant, meeting current regulatory standards. For applications subject to RoHS requirements, the main part is the appropriate selection.

Q: Can the insulation height difference affect PCB layout?

A: Yes. The TSW-115-14-F-S has an insulation height of 0.100" (2.54mm), while the 4-103321-0 measures 0.090" (2.29mm). This 0.25mm difference may affect clearance calculations, particularly in high-density PCB layouts or applications with tight vertical spacing constraints. PCB design files must be verified for compatibility before substitution.

Q: What is the significance of the post length difference?

A: The TSW-115-14-F-S has a post length of 0.110" (2.79mm), while the 4-103321-0 measures 0.125" (3.18mm). The longer post on the substitute part extends 0.39mm deeper into the PCB. This may affect solder joint formation, thermal management, and mechanical stress distribution. PCB thickness and via placement must be evaluated to ensure compatibility.

Q: Are there any other substitute parts available?

A: The input data identifies only one substitute part: 4-103321-0. The 4-103321-0 itself lists additional substitutes (2340-6211-TG, 4-103321-8, 9-146274-0), but these are not direct substitutes for the TSW-115-14-F-S and would require separate engineering evaluation.