TSW-118-14-S-S Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TSW-118-14-S-S is a rectangular connector header manufactured by Samtec Inc., designed for through-hole mounting applications. This 18-position, single-row header operates at 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch and features gold-plated mating contacts with tin-plated posts. The part maintains active product status with full inventory availability. Substitute parts are identified when equivalent electrical and mechanical parameters align within the allowed specifications for this connector category.

Substiute Parts

TSW-118-14-S-S

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 1126TSW-118-14-S-S Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

4-102972-0

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 15504-102972-0 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TSW-118-14-S-S is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Pitch - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm) — must match exactly for mechanical compatibility
• Connector Type: Header with male pin contacts
• Mounting Type: Through hole solder termination
• Contact Finish: Gold mating surface with tin post finish
• Insulation Material: PBT or equivalent thermoplastic
• Operating Temperature Range: Must encompass or match the -55°C ~ 125°C specification
• Flammability Rating: UL94 V-0 compliance required

The identified substitute part 4-102972-0 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors) shares the core electrical and mechanical characteristics required for functional equivalence within rectangular connector applications. However, differences in position count, contact dimensions, and product status must be evaluated for specific application requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The TSW-118-14-S-S maintains active product status with ROHS3 compliance, making it the primary selection for new designs and applications requiring current regulatory adherence. The part is in full inventory stock with established supply continuity.

The substitute part 4-102972-0 carries obsolete product status and lacks RoHS3 compliance documentation. While it shares the 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch and through-hole solder termination, its 40-position configuration differs significantly from the 18-position main part. The operating temperature range of -65°C ~ 105°C does not fully encompass the main part's -55°C ~ 125°C specification, with a notable upper temperature limit reduction of 20°C. The contact finish thickness on mating surfaces is reduced by 50%, and post finish includes lead content, which may conflict with RoHS requirements in regulated applications.

Substitution of 4-102972-0 is limited to legacy system maintenance or applications where position count reduction and temperature range constraints are acceptable. New designs should prioritize the TSW-118-14-S-S or equivalent active-status alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 4-102972-0 be used as a direct replacement for the TSW-118-14-S-S?

A: No. While both connectors share 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch and through-hole solder termination, the 4-102972-0 has 40 positions versus 18 positions in the main part. Position count mismatch prevents direct substitution. Additionally, the substitute part is obsolete and lacks RoHS3 compliance.

Q: What are the critical compatibility parameters for this connector category?

A: Mating pitch (0.100" / 2.54mm), connector type (header with male pins), mounting method (through hole), and contact finish (gold mating, tin post) are the primary determinants. Operating temperature range and flammability rating must also align with application requirements.

Q: Does the lower operating temperature maximum of the substitute part affect compatibility?

A: The 4-102972-0 operates to 105°C maximum, compared to 125°C for the TSW-118-14-S-S. Applications requiring sustained operation above 105°C cannot use the substitute part. This represents a 20°C reduction in upper temperature capability.

Q: Is the contact finish thickness difference significant?

A: The main part specifies 30.0µin (0.76µm) gold on mating contacts, while the substitute provides 15.0µin (0.38µm). The 50% reduction in plating thickness may affect long-term contact reliability and wear resistance in high-cycle mating applications.

Q: What is the significance of the Tin-Lead finish on the substitute part's posts?

A: The 4-102972-0 uses Tin-Lead post finish, which contains lead. This conflicts with ROHS3 compliance requirements. The main part uses pure Tin finish, which is RoHS-compliant. Lead-containing finishes are restricted in regulated markets and applications.

Q: Can the breakaway feature of the substitute part be ignored if not needed?

A: The breakaway feature is a structural characteristic of the 4-102972-0 design. While it may not be utilized in all applications, it represents a design difference that could affect mechanical fit and board layout compatibility.