EATON CS-TX3-3.-81X2.54-64TW – High‑density 2.54 mm PCB Connector for Control & I/O Harnessing

From my experience, the model CS‑TX3‑3.-81X2.54‑64TW is designed for dense board connections where standard 2.54 mm pitch is preferred, and 64 circuits are needed without taking too much space. It seems to be a through‑hole, board‑mounted connector intended for signal distribution on PLC I/O boards, motion controllers, test jigs, or interface cards. One thing I appreciate is the familiar 2.54 mm pitch — it typically keeps it compatible with a wide range of mating headers and harnesses you already use on the line.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment; full payment before delivery
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Key Features

• 2.54 mm standard pitch: Typically ensures broad compatibility with legacy boards, fixtures, and standard ribbon harnesses.
• 64 positions: High circuit density for compact I/O groups on PLC slices or DAQ cards, reducing connector count.
• Through‑hole mounting: Suited for robust wave‑solder processes and mechanically stable in high‑vibration cabinets.
• Industrial temperature capability: In many cases supports −40 to +105°C operation for typical factory floor environments.
• Serviceable and easy to inspect: You might notice solder joints are accessible for visual inspection and rework when needed.
• Neutral to protocol: Works with digital I/O, low‑voltage analog, and field wiring fan‑outs since it’s a passive connector.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

This model fits nicely in control cabinets and test equipment where dense, reliable board connections are needed:

• PLC and DCS I/O cards consolidating 16–64 channels per slice
• Motion control and drives signal harnessing (encoders, limit switches, reference signals)
• Data acquisition and laboratory instruments using standard 2.54 mm headers
• Functional test fixtures and burn‑in boards that swap connectors frequently
• Communication breakout boards (protocol‑neutral fan‑outs for RS‑level or GPIO signals)

A customer in automotive test noted the 64‑way 2.54 mm format “made loom changes painless” during fixture revisions, which, in many cases, saves hours per iteration.

Advantages & Value

• Compatibility: Standard 2.54 mm ecosystem reduces custom parts and keeps spares easy to source.
• Reliability: Through‑hole soldering provides mechanical strength under vibration and repeated mating.
• Cost control: Consolidating to 64 circuits per connector typically lowers PCB real estate and harness complexity.
• Risk reduction: Passive, protocol‑agnostic design avoids lock‑in and assists cross‑platform use.
• Support: Drawings and application guidance available to align pinout, creepage/clearance, and solder process.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & environment: Install in a ventilated enclosure to keep temperature within −40…+105°C; avoid condensation.
• PCB layout: Use 2.54 mm grid; provide adequate annular ring and solder‑thru hole tolerance for wave solder.
• Wiring & strain relief: Route cable bundles to avoid side‑loading the connector; add lacing/strain relief where needed.
• Solder process: Wave solder is recommended for consistent fill; verify with IPC‑A‑610 criteria.
• Safety: De‑energize circuits before mating/unmating; follow ESD handling if sensitive signals are present.
• Routine care: Periodically inspect joints and contact surfaces; clean light debris with IPA swabs; check retention after service.
• Documentation: Keep the latest drawing/revision aligned with your BOM; request sample before mass run if stack‑up is tight.

Quality & Certifications

• Typically supplied RoHS compliant; UL recognition is common for connector families in this class
• Manufacturer’s warranty support applies; our warranty coverage is 365 days
• Compliance documents (RoHS/REACH declarations, material data) available upon request

If you need the exact mechanical drawing, recommended hole size, or a mating part suggestion (straight vs. right‑angle, tin vs. gold), share your stack‑up and we’ll match the spec so it fits the first time.