TSW-134-14-S-D Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TSW-134-14-S-D is a rectangular connector header manufactured by Samtec Inc., designed for through-hole board-to-board or cable applications. This 68-position, 2-row connector operates across a wide temperature range (-55°C to 125°C) and features gold-plated mating contacts with tin-plated posts. The part maintains Active product status and full RoHS3 compliance, making it suitable for modern electronic assemblies requiring reliable interconnection solutions.

Substitute parts become necessary when the primary part faces supply constraints, obsolescence concerns, or when design requirements permit alternative connector configurations that maintain functional compatibility within specified electrical and mechanical tolerances.

Substiute Parts

TSW-134-14-S-D

Samtec Inc.In Stock: 923TSW-134-14-S-D Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

4-102973-0

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 18614-102973-0 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TSW-134-14-S-D is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Compatibility Criteria:

• Pitch - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm) — must match exactly
• Row Spacing - Mating: 0.100" (2.54mm) — must match exactly
• Mounting Type: Through Hole — must match exactly
• Contact Type: Male Pin — must match exactly
• Connector Style: Board to Board or Cable — must match exactly

Secondary Compatibility Criteria:

• Number of Positions: 68 positions (exact match required for direct substitution)
• Number of Rows: 2 rows (exact match required for direct substitution)
• Operating Temperature Range: Must encompass or equal -55°C to 125°C
• Contact Finish - Mating: Gold plating required
• Insulation Material: PBT or equivalent thermoplastic

Compliance & Regulatory Criteria:

• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant preferred for new designs
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: MSL 1 (Unlimited) preferred
• Material Flammability Rating: UL94 V-0 required

The substitute part 4-102973-0 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors) differs in position count (80 vs. 68) and product status (Obsolete vs. Active), requiring engineering evaluation for application-specific compatibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection: TSW-134-14-S-D (Samtec Inc.)

The TSW-134-14-S-D remains the preferred choice for new designs and ongoing production. This part maintains Active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. Full RoHS3 compliance and lead-free tin post finish align with modern regulatory requirements and environmental standards. The operating temperature range of -55°C to 125°C accommodates demanding industrial and commercial applications. Gold plating thickness of 30.0µin provides superior contact durability and corrosion resistance compared to thinner alternatives.

Substitute Consideration: 4-102973-0 (TE Connectivity AMP Connectors)

The 4-102973-0 presents significant compatibility limitations and is not recommended as a direct substitute:

• Position Count Mismatch: 80 positions versus 68 positions creates mechanical and electrical incompatibility with existing PCB layouts and mating connectors.
• Obsolete Status: Discontinued product status introduces supply risk and potential long-term unavailability.
• RoHS Non-Compliance: Tin-Lead post finish violates RoHS3 requirements, restricting use in regulated markets and modern applications.
• Temperature Range Limitation: Maximum operating temperature of 105°C falls below the Samtec part's 125°C rating, unsuitable for high-temperature applications.
• Lower Gold Plating Thickness: 15.0µin gold finish provides reduced contact durability compared to the Samtec specification.

Substitution Feasibility: The 4-102973-0 cannot serve as a direct functional equivalent due to position count mismatch and regulatory non-compliance. Any application requiring this part would necessitate complete PCB redesign and mating connector replacement, negating substitution benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 4-102973-0 be used as a direct replacement for the TSW-134-14-S-D?

A: No. The 4-102973-0 has 80 positions compared to the TSW-134-14-S-D's 68 positions. This fundamental difference prevents direct mechanical and electrical compatibility with existing PCB layouts and mating connectors. Additionally, the TE part's Obsolete status and RoHS non-compliance create regulatory and supply chain risks.

Q: What are the critical parameters that must match for connector substitution?

A: Pitch (0.100" / 2.54mm), row spacing (0.100" / 2.54mm), number of positions (68), number of rows (2), mounting type (Through Hole), and contact type (Male Pin) must match exactly. Operating temperature range must encompass or equal -55°C to 125°C. Contact finish must include gold plating on mating surfaces.

Q: Why is the TSW-134-14-S-D preferred over the 4-102973-0?

A: The TSW-134-14-S-D maintains Active product status, ensuring reliable long-term supply. It is fully RoHS3 compliant with lead-free construction, supports the full -55°C to 125°C temperature range, and features thicker gold plating (30.0µin) for superior contact reliability. The 4-102973-0 is Obsolete, RoHS non-compliant, and temperature-limited to 105°C.

Q: Are there mechanical compatibility issues between these parts?

A: Yes. The 80-position TE part cannot physically mate with 68-position receptacles or sockets designed for the Samtec connector. Insulation height differences (0.100" vs. 0.090") and post length variations (0.110" vs. 0.125") also create assembly and stacking height incompatibilities.

Q: What compliance certifications should I verify before selecting a substitute?

A: Verify RoHS3 compliance status, UL94 flammability rating (V-0 required), and Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL 1 preferred). Confirm that contact finish materials comply with lead-free requirements for regulated applications. Check product status to ensure active manufacturing and supply availability.

Q: Can the 4-102973-0 be used if I only need 68 of its 80 positions?

A: No. Using only 68 of 80 positions does not resolve the fundamental incompatibility. The physical connector dimensions, insulation height, and post length remain mismatched. The mating receptacle or socket must be designed for the specific 80-position configuration, creating a non-interchangeable assembly.