368301-1 TE Rectangular Connector Housing Basic Guide

1. Introduction: The Heart of Connectivity

In the vast landscape of electronic and electrical systems, the unsung heroes are often the connectors that ensure seamless signal and power transmission. From critical automotive control units to intricate industrial machinery, the reliability of these small but mighty components can determine the performance and longevity of an entire system. Among the myriad of options available, the TE 368301-1 rectangular connector housing stands out as a robust and essential component, particularly within demanding environments like the automotive sector. This guide will delve into what makes the 368301-1 a crucial choice for engineers and designers, exploring its specifications, applications, and the underlying quality assurance that comes with a TE Connectivity product.

Often referred to as part of the “Econoseal J – Mark II Automotive Housings” family, the 368301-1 is engineered for precision and durability. Its purpose is clear: to provide a secure enclosure for electrical contacts, protecting them from environmental factors while maintaining optimal electrical continuity. Understanding this specific connector isn’t just about knowing a part number; it’s about appreciating the engineering thought that goes into ensuring crucial connections never fail, even under harsh conditions. Whether you’re designing new systems or performing maintenance, a solid grasp of this 15-position housing will prove invaluable.

 

2. Understanding the TE 368301-1 Connector Housing

The TE 368301-1 is not just any connector housing; it’s a specialized component designed by TE Connectivity, a global leader in connectivity and sensor solutions. At its core, it is a receptacle-type rectangular connector housing, meaning it serves as the female half of a connector pair, ready to accept corresponding male terminals. Its distinct features make it particularly suited for applications requiring a certain degree of ruggedness and reliability.

This specific part number, 368301-1, identifies a black, 15-position housing that is intended for cable mounting and utilizes crimp termination for its contacts. The “Econoseal J – Mark II” designation points to a family of connectors known for their sealed properties, often employed where protection against moisture, dust, and vibration is paramount. While specific sealing details for this exact part aren’t fully disclosed in public summaries, the family name strongly suggests a design optimized for environmental resilience, a common requirement in automotive and industrial settings. Choosing the right TE Connectivity AMP Connectors product like the 368301-1 is a step towards ensuring long-term system integrity.

3. The Price Range of  368301-1

According to the latest market conditions, the price range for 368301-1 is approximately USD0.355 – USD0.985 per piece. The specific price may vary depending on the following factors:

Purchase quantity (bulk purchases typically offer more favorable unit prices)

Supplier and regional differences

We are very strong on Electronic Components Distribution for more than 12 years. We can make sure that all the components from our company are 100% Original and New! Please feel free to contact us if you have any needs.

4. Key Features and Technical Specifications

To fully appreciate the 368301-1, let’s break down its essential characteristics and technical specifications. These details are critical for engineers and designers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance within their target applications. The core information, often found in the 368301-1 datasheet, highlights its robust design.

General Specifications:

• Part Number: 368301-1
• Manufacturer: TE Connectivity (specifically, under the AMP Connectors brand)
• Product Type: Rectangular Connector Housing, Receptacle
• Product Family: Econoseal J – Mark II Automotive Housings
• Number of Positions: 15
• Mounting Type: Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Contact Termination Type: Crimp (designed to accept individual crimped contacts)
• Color: Black
• Packaging: Typically supplied in bags for bulk assembly

Detailed Features:

The 15-position configuration allows for a significant number of signal or power lines to be consolidated into a single, organized connection point. This is particularly advantageous in complex systems where space optimization and wire management are key. The cable mount design ensures that the connector can be directly integrated into wiring harnesses, making it flexible for various installation scenarios.

Crimp termination is a widely preferred method in automotive and industrial applications due to its reliability and ease of assembly. It involves mechanically compressing a contact onto a wire, creating a gas-tight and highly durable electrical connection. This method, when properly executed, offers excellent vibration resistance and long-term stability, critical factors for automotive connectors.

The black color is standard for many automotive components, offering UV resistance and a professional finish. While exact material specifications would be in the full datasheet, TE Connectivity typically uses high-grade thermoplastics that offer excellent mechanical strength, temperature resistance, and dielectric properties, essential for demanding electrical connectors.

Summary of Key Specifications:

Feature	Specification	Benefit
Part Number	368301-1	Standardized identification for procurement
Manufacturer	TE Connectivity	Guaranteed quality from a global leader
Connector Type	Rectangular Housing, Receptacle	Secure mating for multi-pin connections
Positions	15	Accommodates multiple signals/power lines
Mounting	Cable Mount	Flexible integration into wiring harnesses
Termination	Crimp	Reliable, durable, and field-repairable connections
Color	Black	Standard, often UV-resistant, professional appearance
Family	Econoseal J – Mark II	Indicates design for environmental protection

5. 368301-1 Datasheet Download

• 368301-1 Datasheet: 368301-1

 

6. Applications: Where Reliability Matters

The robust design and specific features of the TE 368301-1 connector housing make it ideal for applications where environmental resilience, vibrational stability, and secure multi-pin connections are paramount. Its designation within the “Econoseal J – Mark II Automotive Housings” family points directly to its primary use case: the automotive industry.

Automotive Applications:

In vehicles, connectors are exposed to a harsh cocktail of temperature extremes, moisture, road salt, vibrations, and various chemicals. The 368301-1 is engineered to withstand these challenges, making it suitable for:

• Engine Control Units (ECUs): Connecting various sensors (e.g., oxygen sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors) and actuators to the ECU, where reliable data transmission is non-negotiable for engine performance and emissions control.
• Transmission Systems: Providing secure connections for solenoids and sensors within automatic or manual transmission systems.
• Body Electronics: Wiring for lighting systems, power windows, central locking, and infotainment units, particularly in areas subject to splash or humidity.
• Chassis Systems: Connections for ABS/ESP sensors, steering components, and other under-the-hood or under-the-chassis modules that require durable electrical connectors.
• Sensor Interfaces: Any application where sensors provide critical data, and their connection integrity must be maintained despite dynamic vehicle movements and environmental exposure.

Beyond Automotive:

While primarily automotive-focused, the characteristics of the 368301-1 also make it suitable for other demanding environments:

• Industrial Machinery: Connecting control panels, sensor arrays, or motor drives in factories where dust, vibrations, or occasional fluid exposure are common.
• Off-Road and Agricultural Equipment: Similar to automotive, but often even more severe environmental conditions, requiring extremely robust connectors for critical functions.
• Marine Applications (Non-Submersible): In environments where splash-proofing and corrosion resistance are beneficial for electronic modules.

The ability of this 15-position housing to secure multiple connections within a single, robust unit simplifies wiring harnesses and reduces potential points of failure, making it a valuable asset in complex electronic systems across various sectors.

 

7. Why Choose TE Connectivity 368301-1?

The choice of a connector is often as much about the manufacturer as it is about the specific product. TE Connectivity, the company behind the 368301-1, is a global industrial technology leader that designs and manufactures a broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions for the harshest environments. Their reputation is built on decades of engineering excellence, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality. When you specify a TE product, you’re not just getting a component; you’re leveraging a legacy of reliability.

Products like the Econoseal J – Mark II family are a testament to TE’s focus on solutions that perform reliably in extreme conditions. They invest heavily in research and development, materials science, and rigorous testing protocols to ensure their connectors meet and exceed industry standards. This means that a 368301-1 rectangular connector housing is designed for longevity, reducing maintenance costs and improving overall system reliability.

In essence, choosing TE Connectivity for critical components like the 368301-1 means opting for peace of mind, backed by a company known for designing products that simply work, even when the stakes are high. This brand trust is a significant factor, especially when considering the long-term performance of electronic components.

 

8. Availability and Procurement

Once the decision is made to incorporate the TE 368301-1 into a design, the next step is procurement. Fortunately, as a widely recognized TE Connectivity product, the 368301-1 is readily available through various reputable global distributors, ensuring a smooth supply chain for both small-scale prototyping and large-volume production.

When purchasing, always refer to the official datasheets to confirm that the connector specifications meet your project’s precise requirements. Given its widespread use in “Econoseal J – Mark II” automotive housings, finding the 368301-1 should be straightforward for most buyers, ensuring your project stays on schedule.

 

9. 368301-1 FAQs

10. Summary

The TE 368301-1 rectangular connector housing is a testament to TE Connectivity’s expertise in designing robust and reliable solutions for demanding electrical connections. As a 15-position, cable-mount receptacle with crimp termination, it is specifically engineered to perform in challenging environments, with a strong focus on automotive applications as part of the Econoseal J – Mark II family. Its black housing, durable construction, and secure connection capabilities make it an indispensable component for engineers seeking long-term stability and performance in their designs. From engine control units to various sensor interfaces, the 368301-1 ensures critical electrical pathways remain intact, contributing significantly to the overall integrity and reliability of complex electronic systems.

 

Key Takeaways

• The TE 368301-1 is a 15-position, black, cable-mount rectangular connector housingfrom TE Connectivity’s Econoseal J – Mark II family.
• It utilizes crimp termination, known for its reliability, durability, and ease of assembly in various applications.
• Primarily designed for automotive applications, it excels in harsh environments requiring resistance to vibration, moisture, and temperature extremes.
• Choosing TE Connectivity ensures high-quality, innovative, and rigorously testedelectrical connectors from a global industry leader.
• Proper selection ofconnector specifications like the 368301-1 is crucial for system performance and longevity.