Needs validationhigh risk
A robust JST functional alternative with a higher current rating, but requires a PCB change to THT.
Best Alternatives to VH-4AW
VH-4AW is a 4-pin, 3.96mm pitch SMT right-angle header. Finding a direct replacement is challenging, as most available alternatives in the VH family are Through-Hole (THT), requiring a PCB redesign for use.
AI replacement insight
Package riskhigh
SMT to THT conversion requires a board redesign, impacting manufacturing processes.
Electrical riskmedium
Target current rating is unknown. Candidates have ratings from 3A to 10A; this must be verified for the application.
Sourcing risklow
Candidates are from multiple vendors, including major brands like JST, indicating good availability.
Can it be replaced directly?
No direct, drop-in SMT replacement for VH-4AW has been identified. All suitable alternatives are Through-Hole (THT) and require a new PCB layout.
Best replacement path
S4P-VH(LF)(SN) by JST is a strong functional alternative due to its high 10A current rating and brand reputation, but it requires a PCB redesign for its Through-Hole package.
Main risk
The primary risk is the mechanical package mismatch. The target is a Surface-Mount (SMT) part, while all candidates are Through-Hole (THT), necessitating a complete PCB layout and footprint change.
Recommended alternatives
4Alternative comparison matrix
| Feature / factor | VH-4AW | S4P-VH(LF)(SN) | HC-VH-4A4W | HC-VH-4AWT | Compatibility / risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | Surface Mount, Right Angle | Through Hole, Right Angle | Through Hole, Right Angle | Through Hole, Right Angle | Through Hole, Right Angle — Candidate is THT, target is SMT. Requires PCB redesign.; HC-VH-4A4W: Candidate is THT, target is SMT. Requires PCB redesign.; HC-VH-4AWT: Candidate is THT, target is SMT. Requires PCB redesign.; ZX-VH3.96-4PWZ: Candidate is THT, target is SMT. Requires PCB redesign. |
| Voltage | 250V AC/DC | 250V | 250V AC/DC | 250V | 250V / 250V AC/DC — Voltage rating matches.; HC-VH-4A4W: Voltage rating matches.; HC-VH-4AWT: Voltage rating matches.; ZX-VH3.96-4PWZ: Voltage rating matches. |
| Current | Unknown | 10A | 7A | 7A | 10A / 7A / 3A — Higher current rating. Verify if needed as target current is unknown.; HC-VH-4A4W: Strong current rating. Verify if needed as target current is unknown.; HC-VH-4AWT: Strong current rating. Verify if needed as target current is unknown.; ZX-VH3.96-4PWZ: Target current rating is unknown. Verify 3A is sufficient for the application. |
| Pinout | 4 | - | - | - | 4 — Pin count matches, but footprint is different (THT vs SMT). |
Application & sourcing insights
Questions & answers
The best functional alternative is S4P-VH(LF)(SN) from JST. It offers a high 10A current rating but requires a PCB redesign because it is a Through-Hole (THT) part, unlike the SMT target.