Needs validationhigh risk
A functional alternate from the same JST XH series, but with a straight (top-entry) mounting orientation instead of right-angle.
Best Alternatives to S3B-XH-A(LF)(SN)
S3B-XH-A(LF)(SN) is a popular 3-pin, 2.5mm pitch right-angle header from JST's XH series. Finding a direct, drop-in replacement is challenging, as most alternatives are straight (top-entry) versions that require PCB layout modifications.
AI replacement insight
Package riskhigh
Target is right-angle, but alternatives are straight. They will not fit the same PCB layout.
Electrical risklow
For same-series parts, electrical parameters are identical. Cross-vendor parts require validation.
Can it be replaced directly?
No direct, drop-in replacement was found. All reviewed candidates have mechanical differences, primarily the mounting orientation (straight vs. right-angle).
Best replacement path
Use the straight version from the same series, B3B-XH-A(LF)(SN), if the board layout can accommodate a top-entry connector.
Main risk
Mechanical incompatibility due to the mounting angle (right-angle vs. straight).
Recommended alternatives
4Alternative comparison matrix
| Feature / factor | S3B-XH-A(LF)(SN) | B3B-XH-A(LF)(SN) | B3B-XH-AM(LF)(SN) | HC-XH-3A-G | Compatibility / risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | Right Angle / Side-Entry | Straight / Top-Entry | Straight, with Boss | Straight / Top-Entry | Straight / Top-Entry / Straight, with Boss — Candidate is straight, target is right-angle. Not a drop-in replacement.; B3B-XH-AM(LF)(SN): Straight orientation and has a mounting boss, requiring an extra PCB hole.; HC-XH-3A-G: Candidate is straight, target is right-angle. Not a drop-in replacement.; HC-XHB-3A: Candidate is straight, target is right-angle. Not a drop-in replacement. |
| Manufacturer | JST | JST | JST | HCTL | JST / HCTL — Same manufacturer and XH series.; B3B-XH-AM(LF)(SN): Same manufacturer and XH series.; HC-XH-3A-G: Cross-vendor alternative, may have material or tolerance differences.; HC-XHB-3A: Cross-vendor alternative, may have material or tolerance differences. |
| Voltage | 3A / 250V | 3A / 250V | 3A / 250V | 3A / 250V | 3A / 250V — Electrical ratings match.; B3B-XH-AM(LF)(SN): Electrical ratings match.; HC-XH-3A-G: Electrical ratings match.; HC-XHB-3A: Electrical ratings match. |
| Pitch | 2.5mm | 2.5mm | 2.5mm | 2.5mm | 2.5mm — Pitch matches.; B3B-XH-AM(LF)(SN): Pitch matches.; HC-XH-3A-G: Pitch matches.; HC-XHB-3A: Pitch matches. |
Application & sourcing insights
Questions & answers
The best functional alternative is B3B-XH-A(LF)(SN), which is the straight (top-entry) version from the same JST XH series. However, it is not a drop-in replacement and requires a different PCB layout.