HC-VH-3ALT
HCTL
Needs validationlow risk
A potential pin-compatible replacement from the same manufacturer with identical key ratings.
Best Alternatives to HC-VH-3A3
Find reliable substitutes for the HCTL HC-VH-3A3, a 3-pin, 3.96mm pitch vertical header. Explore pin-compatible alternates and functional upgrades from various manufacturers.
AI replacement insight
Package riskmedium
Must verify vertical orientation and lack of extra features like PCB bosses.
Electrical risklow
Most alternatives match or exceed the 7A/250V rating.
Sourcing risklow
The VH 3.96mm series is a multi-sourced industry standard.
Can it be replaced directly?
Direct replacement for HC-VH-3A3 should use only Datasheet verified or Strong match candidates; many approved options still require engineering review.
Best replacement path
Use HC-VH-3ALT for a like-for-like replacement or JST's B3P5-VH(LF)(SN) for a current rating upgrade.
Main risk
The main risk is mechanical incompatibility, especially with right-angle versions or parts with extra features like PCB bosses.
Recommended alternatives
3Alternative comparison matrix
| Feature / factor | HC-VH-3A3 | HC-VH-3ALT | B3P5-VH(LF)(SN) | ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R | Compatibility / risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 3-pin Header, Vertical | 3-pin Header, Vertical | Through Hole, Vertical | Through Hole, Straight | 3-pin Header, Vertical / Through Hole, Vertical / Through Hole, Straight — Package and orientation match.; B3P5-VH(LF)(SN): Vertical through-hole mount matches target's form.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: Vertical through-hole mount matches target's form. |
| Current | 7 A | 7 A | 10 A | 7 A | 7 A / 10 A — Current ratings are identical.; B3P5-VH(LF)(SN): Higher current rating is a safe upgrade.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: Current ratings are identical. |
| Voltage | 250 V | 250 V | - | - | 250 V — Voltage ratings are identical. |
| Material | Nylon66 | LCP UL94-V0 | - | PA66 UL94V-0 | LCP UL94-V0 / PA66 UL94V-0 — Candidate housing material has higher temperature performance.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: Housing material is equivalent. |
| Manufacturer | HCTL | - | JST | Megastar | JST / Megastar — Well-known brand for VH series.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: Cross-vendor alternative. |
Application & sourcing insights
Questions & answers
Verified drop-in options for HC-VH-3A3 are limited in the current batch. Review candidates marked Strong match or Datasheet verified, and validate package, pinout, and electrical limits before committing a BOM change.