PCB Headers

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, Samtec and Molex. We are also the supplier and distributor of other connector peripherals, such as heavy duty and military connectors.

For more information on our delivery services, visit our delivery page.