HC-VH-3A3
HCTL
Needs validationlow risk
Same manufacturer and series with identical key electrical and mechanical specs.
Best Alternatives to HC-VH-3ALT
HC-VH-3ALT is a 3-pin, 3.96mm pitch vertical header from HCTL, rated for 7A/250V. Several cross-vendor and upgrade alternatives are available but require datasheet verification for mechanical fit.
AI replacement insight
Package riskmedium
Minor differences in housing dimensions or features require datasheet verification.
Electrical risklow
Key ratings (V/I) are matched or exceeded by candidates.
Sourcing risklow
The VH 3.96mm connector family is widely available from multiple vendors.
Can it be replaced directly?
Yes, several alternatives exist for HC-VH-3ALT. HCTL's HC-VH-3A3 is a very close match, while JST's VH series parts like B3P5-VH(LF)(SN) are popular upgrades. Datasheet verification of mechanical dimensions is required.
Best replacement path
JST's B3P5-VH(LF)(SN) offers an upgrade in current rating (10A) and is a widely sourced option. For a like-for-like replacement, HCTL's HC-VH-3A3 is the closest match.
Main risk
The primary risk is mechanical incompatibility. While pitch and pin count match, minor differences in housing dimensions or features can prevent a drop-in fit.
Recommended alternatives
3Alternative comparison matrix
| Feature / factor | HC-VH-3ALT | HC-VH-3A3 | B3P5-VH(LF)(SN) | ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R | Compatibility / risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 3-pin Header, Vertical | 3-pin Header, Straight | Through Hole, Vertical | Through Hole, Straight | 3-pin Header, Straight / Through Hole, Vertical / Through Hole, Straight — Package style matches target's vertical mount.; B3P5-VH(LF)(SN): Package style matches target's vertical mount.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: Package style matches target's vertical mount. |
| Pitch | 3.96 mm | 3.96 mm | 3.96 mm | 3.96 mm | 3.96 mm — matched; B3P5-VH(LF)(SN): matched; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: matched |
| Current | 7 A | 7 A | 10 A | 7 A | 7 A / 10 A — matched; B3P5-VH(LF)(SN): Higher current rating provides more margin.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: matched |
| Material | LCP UL94-V0 | Nylon66 UL94-V0 | - | PA66 UL94V-0 | Nylon66 UL94-V0 / PA66 UL94V-0 — Target is LCP, which may have better thermal stability.; ZX-VH3.96-3PZZ-R: Target is LCP, which may have better thermal stability. |
| Voltage | 250 V | - | 250 V | - | 250 V — matched |
Application & sourcing insights
Questions & answers
Verified drop-in options for HC-VH-3ALT 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.