
PCB headers, also known as pin headers, are electrical connectors that join Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) to external devices or components. Typically, PCB headers are designed with two sides; with one meant to be surfaced-mounted and soldered onto the board, and the other side facilitating connections. Pin headers with a plastic guide box around them are known as shrouded or box headers. These guide boxes prevent the pins from bending and allow locking.

At RS, we carry a wide range of PCB headers, including 3-Pin PCB Headers, 4-Pin PCB Headers, Machine Pin Headers and Right-Angle PCB Headers.

## **Key Uses of PCB Headers**
- **Simplified Connections:** PCB headers allow you to make multiple electrical connections to a printed circuit board (PCB) using a single connection block or cable.
- **Ease of Use:** Simply solder the PCB header onto your board, and it's ready for making multi-pin connections.
- **Versatile Pin Functions:** Each pin on a PCB header can be used for different purposes, such as transmitting data or supplying power.
- **Ideal for Beginners:** PCB headers are an excellent starting point for those learning electronics due to their simplicity and primary function of enabling wire-to-board connections.
- **Popular in Educational Kits:** They are commonly incorporated into learner electronics kits, especially with platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other single-board computers.

## **Types of PCB Headers**

### **Single Row Pin Headers**

Offers a simple, compact connection with a single row of pins. One of the most commonly seen PCB headers. They are ideal for general purpose usage in low-to-moderate pin count applications in consumer electronics or small devices.

### **Double Row Pin Headers**

Provides double the connection points, suitable for higher-density applications. They are perfect for general purpose usage in low-to-moderate pin count applications where more pins are required.

### **Machine-Pin Headers**

These pin headers have circular pins, offering a precise fit that provides enhanced electrical connection and durability. Machine-Pin Headers are suited for high-precision applications where reliability and durability are key.

### **Right-Angle PCB Headers**

These angled pin headers are available in a range of diverse angles, though most are angled at 180° or 90°. They are ideal for compact designs where space constraints prevent vertical connectors; reducing cable strain. 

### **Stackable Headers**

These headers often feature a male header on one PCB and a female receptacle on the other, allowing for stacking or parallel connections. Stackable headers enhance modular designs, where multiple connectors are required to be in a stack or parallel configuration. 

## **How to Choose the Right PCB Header for Your Needs**
- **Pin count:** Choose the pin count based on the number of electrical connections needed, e.g., an 8-pin header for 8 data lines.
- **Header type:** Select a header type (e.g., straight, right-angle, shrouded, unshrouded) that fits the physical layout and protection requirements of your PCB, such as a right-angle header for space-constrained designs, or a shrouded header for preventing damage to your pins caused by bending.
- **Material and durability:** Consider the material of your PCB header and its connector pins. Gold plating on connector pins are better for critical applications due to superior corrosion resistance compared to tin-lead or silver.
- **Mounting type:** PCB headers mounted via through-hole mounting (THM) enjoy strong mechanical connection, whereas surface-mounted PCB headers require less space and are best-suited for high density assembly.

## **Mistakes to Avoid When Buying PCB Headers**
- **Misjudging pin count:** Selecting a header with too few pins (e.g., using a 4-pin header when 6 signals are needed for a sensor) will lead to insufficient connectivity for your circuit.
- **Incorrect header type:** Choosing the wrong header type can result in improper fit, accidental reverse connections, or mechanical issues. For instance, choosing a straight header when a right-angle header is needed to overcome space constraints.
- **Compatibility issues:** Failing to match the header's pitch or pin size with the mating connector or PCB footprint (e.g., using a 2.00mm pitch header with a 2.54mm pitch female connector) will prevent proper physical and electrical connection.
- **Overlooking durability:** Opting for headers with insufficient material quality for frequently connected applications (e.g., using a cheap, low-cycle header in an industrial environment with constant movement) can lead to premature wear, intermittent connections, or failure.

## **Industry Applications**

PCB headers are deployed across various industries to facilitate reliable and modular electrical connections.

- **Discrete Manufacturing:** PCB headers enable quick and efficient connections between various electronic components on assembly lines, streamlining the production of products such as consumer electronics or automotive parts.
- **Process Manufacturing:** In industrial automation and control systems, pin headers provide robust links for sensors, actuators, and controllers, facilitating efficient monitoring and control of continuous processes in chemical plants or refineries.
- **Energy and Utilities:** PCB headers ensure secure and efficient transmission of power and signals within control panels and monitoring equipment in power distribution systems, renewable energy installations, and smart grid infrastructure.
- **Facilities and Intralogistics:** Pin headers are crucial for seamless communication and power distribution in automated systems like conveyor belts, robotic arms, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) within warehouses and smart building management.

## **Your Trusted PCB Header Supplier & Distributor in Australia**

RS is your no. 1 source of 3-Pin PCB headers, machine pin headers and stackable headers in Australia. We carry high-quality pin headers from trusted brands such as [RS PRO](https://au.rs-online.com/web/content/m/rs-pro), [Samtec](https://au.rs-online.com/web/b/samtec/) and [Molex](https://au.rs-online.com/web/b/molex/). We are also the supplier and distributor of other connector peripherals, such as [heavy duty](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/connectors/power-connectors/heavy-duty-power-connectors/) and [military connectors](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/connectors/circular-connectors/mil-spec-circular-connectors/). 

For more information on our delivery services, visit our [delivery page](https://au.rs-online.com/web/content/support/all-articles/delivery).



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