Male Pin Headers

Rectangular Connectors, also known as Headers or Male Pins, are essential components in the field of electronics and electrical engineering. They are used to establish secure and reliable connections between different electronic devices or components.

Definition:
Rectangular Connectors are a type of electrical connector that features a rectangular shape, with male pins protruding from one side. These connectors are designed to mate with corresponding female sockets, which have holes that accommodate the male pins.

Function:
1. Electrical Connection: They provide a means to transmit electrical signals or power between components.
2. Signal Integrity: They help maintain the integrity of the signal by providing a low-resistance, low-inductance path.
3. Mechanical Stability: They ensure a stable mechanical connection, which is crucial for reliable operation.

Applications:
1. PCB Interconnections: They are commonly used to connect printed circuit boards (PCBs) to other PCBs or to external devices.
2. Prototyping: In electronics prototyping, headers are used to make temporary connections for testing and development.
3. Industrial Automation: They are used in industrial settings for connecting sensors, actuators, and control systems.
4. Consumer Electronics: Found in various consumer electronics for internal connections, such as in laptops, smartphones, and home appliances.

Selection Criteria:
1. Pin Count: The number of pins required for the connection.
2. Pin Spacing: The distance between pins, which can vary (e.g., 0.1", 2.54mm).
3. Current Rating: The maximum current the connector can safely carry.
4. Voltage Rating: The maximum voltage the connector can withstand.
5. Environment: Consideration for the operating environment, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals.
6. Mounting Style: Whether the connector is through-hole (TH) or surface-mount (SMT).
7. Mating Type: The type of female connector or socket it needs to mate with.
8. Material: The material of the connector, which can affect its durability and performance.

When selecting rectangular connectors, it's important to consider the specific requirements of the application to ensure compatibility, reliability, and performance.
Please refer to the product rule book for details.