A box header connector, also known as a shrouded header, is a male pin connector with a plastic shroud surrounding the pins. This shroud guides mating connectors (like IDC sockets) to ensure accurate alignment, prevents pin damage, and often includes keying or polarization features to avoid mis-mating. Typically used in board-to-board or wire-to-board applications, box headers are available in various pitches (e.g., 2.54mm, 2.0mm) and pin counts, making them ideal for electronics, automotive, and industrial systems.
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Available in 1.27mm, 2.0mm, and 2.54mm pitch options
1.27mm Pitch: Designed for high-density applications, ideal for space-constrained devices like portable electronics. Current rating: Typically 1.0A per pin.
2.0mm Pitch: Offers a balance between compactness and durability, suitable for moderate-density applications. Current Rating: Typically 2.0A per pin.
2.54mm Pitch: The industry-standard pitch, widely used in industrial, prototyping, and legacy systems for its robust design and compatibility with standard connectors. Easier to handle but requires more PCB space. Current Rating: Typically 3.0A per pin.
Available in SMT (surface mounting) and THT (through-hole)
SMT Box Header: Mounted directly onto the PCB surface using solder paste and reflow soldering, SMT box headers are compact and ideal for high-density, automated assembly. They save space, allow double-sided PCB use, and suit modern, miniaturized electronics but offer less mechanical strength.
THT Box Header: Features pins inserted through drilled holes in the PCB, soldered on the opposite side for a robust mechanical bond. THT box headers are durable, ideal for high-stress or high-reliability applications, but require more space and manual or wave soldering.
With or without a locking mechanism secures the connection
With Lock: Features a locking mechanism that secures the mating connector, preventing accidental disconnection in high-vibration environments. Ideal for applications requiring robust retention, like industrial controls.
Without Lock: Lacks a locking feature, relying on friction for retention. Suits applications with minimal vibration or frequent disconnection needs, offering simpler mating at a lower cost.
An IDC Box Header connects directly to flat ribbon cables, unlike standard box headers soldered onto PCBs. It features a male pin connector encased in a protective plastic shroud, ensuring accurate alignment, pin protection, and often polarization to prevent mis-mating.
For wire-to-board applications, it mates with a female header to create a reliable connection between the cable and PCB.
For wire-to-wire applications, it pairs with an IDC socket to form a secure cable-to-cable link.
Not sure which type? Let’s guide you to the right choice
When a box header paired with an IDC socket, it forms cable-to-board connections.
When a box header paired with a female header, it forms board-to-board connetions.
When an IDC box header paired with an IDC socket, it forms cable-to-cable connetions.
Standard MOQ is 1000 pieces.
Standard lead time is about 3 weeks.
For fast delivery, we offer DHL, FedEx, UPS, or TNT, ensuring doorstep arrival in 4-7 days. For large quantities, sea freight provides a cost-effective solution.
If you have shipping agent in China, we can send your order to them.
Yes, all products we offer are RoHS and REACH compliant.
The insulation material is for through hole type is PBT. And PA6T or PA9T for SMT type.
The contact material is copper alloy.
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