In the world of electronic connectivity, the pin header is known as one of the most commonly used and versatile connectors. Widely referred to as a universal connector, pin headers play a key role in ensuring reliable electrical connections between PCB boards, wire systems, electronic devices, and industrial components. As competition grows in the connector market, pin header connectors are increasingly used in PCB circuit boards across electronics, home appliances, instrumentation, automatisation industrielle, and more.
What Is a Pin Header?
A pin header is a type of electrical connector that consists of one or more rows of metal pins typically mounted onto a printed circuit board (PCB). It is often used in combination with female headers to form board-to-board connections, or with wire terminals to create wire-to-board connections. In many cases, pin headers can also be used independently to achieve simple circuit bridging or module connections.
History & Industry Background of Pin Header
The earliest pin headers were manufactured by Berg Electronics Corporation, now part of Amphenol, which is why they are sometimes referred to as Berg connectors. Today, pin headers are produced by many connector manufacturers and are widely applied in industries including:
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Video and audio systems
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Lighting equipment
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Consumer electronics
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Telecommunications
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Industrial automation
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Medical and healthcare devices
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Energy equipment
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Robotics and agricultural machinery
How Pin Headers Work
Pin headers establish electrical contact by inserting their exposed pins into the corresponding connector interface. Depending on configuration, they can achieve:
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Board-to-board connection (using pin headers + female headers)
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Wire-to-board connection (with crimp or IDC terminals)
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Independent PCB interconnection (when no mating connector is required)
This versatility is one of the main reasons pin headers are highly favored in modular designs and rapid assembly processes.
Structural Design & Orientation Types
The orientation of pin headers depends on PCB layout and mating requirements. The most common mounting styles include:
| Orientation Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Vertical Pin Header | Pins arranged perpendicular to the PCB; ideal for edge or top-mounted connectors |
| Right-Angle Pin Header | Pins aligned parallel to PCB surface; commonly used where vertical space is limited |
| L-shaped / Customized Design | Used for special installation or tight space constraints |
Choosing the correct orientation ensures proper mating with connectors and reduces assembly errors.
Standard Sizes & Technical Specifications of Pin Header
Pin headers are usually supplied in strip form with 36, 40, or 50 pins, which can be easily cut to the required number. Key specifications include:
| Specification | Common Options |
|---|---|
| Pitch (pin spacing) | 5.08 mm, 3.96 mm, 2.54 mm, 2.00 mm, 1.27 mm |
| Pin type | 0.64 mm square pins or 0.50 mm precision machined round pins |
| Configuration | Single row, dual row (e.g., 8×2 header), multiple row |
| Customization | Tailored pin length, header height, molding design |
Anti-Mismatching (Anti-Dulling) Design
To prevent incorrect mating and ensure safety, pin headers often include:
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Shrouded Header (Boxed Type)
Features a plastic housing with a notch that prevents wrong insertion. Ideal for use with IDC ribbon cables. -
Polarization Pin or Blocked Hole
One pin position is blocked to ensure the connector can only be inserted in the correct orientation.
These designs help minimize connection faults and improve system stability.
Conclusion
Pin headers are essential components in electronic assembly due to their versatility, cost-efficiency, and wide compatibility across devices. From board-to-board connections to high-density PCB designs, they enable secure, modular connectivity across multiple industries.
Whether you’re working on industrial automation, dispositifs médicaux, électronique grand public, or automotive systems, selecting the right pin header type, orientation, and pitch size is critical for ensuring performance and reliability.
Looking for a Reliable Pin Header Supplier?
We support:
✔ Custom pitch sizes and pin configurations
✔ High-precision machining and plating options
✔ Compatible mating solutions (female header, IDC cables, terminal connectors)
✔ Engineering support and samples for testing
Send us your drawing or technical requirements today to get a fast quote and prototype sample.
