In the field of electronic connectors, pin headers serve as indispensable fundamental components. This article takes the KH-2.54PH180-1X16P-L11.5 model from Kinghelm as a case study to systematically explore the technical features, application scenarios, and selection criteria of pin headers, helping engineers and procurement professionals match their requirements with precision.

Kinghelm KH-2.54PH180-1X16P-L11.5 Product Image

1. Pin Header Architecture and Core Parameters

Pin headers are critical components that enable board-to-board connections in electronic devices, and their performance directly impacts the stability of signal transmission. The featured model, KH-2.54PH180-1X16P-L11.5, adopts a through-hole mounting design with a single row of 16 pins and a standard 2.54mm pitch.

It features a 2.5mm plastic height and 3mm tail length, ensuring compatibility during PCB assembly. The square pin design offers better placement accuracy in automated soldering compared to round pins. With a pin length of 6mm, it supports through-hole soldering while minimizing the risk of bending due to excessive length.

The black housing made of flame-retardant material provides insulation and passes stringent safety tests. The product is designed to operate within a wide temperature range of -40°C to +105°C, making it suitable for various harsh environments.

2. Application Scenarios and Selection Guidelines

In industrial control systems, 16-pin headers are commonly used for signal transmission between main control boards and expansion modules. A case study in automation equipment demonstrates that after adopting the KH-2.54PH180 series, the device maintained stable contact under a continuous current of 3A, verifying the reliability of its rated current.

In the consumer electronics sector, 2.54mm pin headers are widely used in platforms like Raspberry Pi and Arduino. The bag-type packaging format makes them convenient for manual soldering.

When selecting pin headers, focus on three key aspects:

lMechanical Parameters (pitch, row count, pin length)

lElectrical Parameters (rated current and voltage)

lEnvironmental Suitability (temperature resistance, materials)

For instance, in automotive electronics, priority should be given to products with gold-plated contacts. The black LCP housing in this example demonstrates excellent UV resistance, making it suitable for outdoor applications.

3. Technological Trends in Pin Headers

As electronics trend toward miniaturization, 0.8mm pitch headers are gradually replacing traditional 2.54mm types. However, standard pitch headers remain in high demand in industrial control and power modules.

The KH-2.54PH180 series from Kinghelm has optimized housing structure, keeping insertion/extraction force within 3.5N ± 0.5N, striking a balance between assembly efficiency and contact reliability.

With the rise of smart manufacturing, pin headers with automated assembly compatibility are gaining attention. The 1x16P single-row structure and precise 2.54mm pitch make this model ideal for high-speed pick-and-place machines. Weighing just 1.018 grams, it also contributes to reducing the overall transportation cost of finished devices.

4. Maintenance and Quality Assurance

In actual use, the following precautions are essential:

lDuring through-hole soldering, peak temperature should be controlled at 260°C ± 5°C to prevent housing deformation.

lWhen using multi-row pin headers side-by-side, maintain consistent row spacing.

lStorage conditions should be kept at ≤60%RH to prevent oxidation.

Kinghelm’s pin header products are manufactured under the ISO9001 quality system. Each batch undergoes contact resistance testing (≤30mΩ) and insulation resistance testing (≥1000MΩ) to ensure quality and performance.

Kinghelm KH-2.54PH180-1X16P-L11.5 Specification

By providing a comprehensive analysis of the technical features and application scenarios of pin headers, this article aims to serve as a full-spectrum reference for electronics engineers. Kinghelm’s KH-2.54PH180 series pin headers, with their precise specifications and reliable quality control, continue to demonstrate the enduring value of standard pin headers in diverse electronic applications.

About Kinghelm

Shenzhen Kinghelm Electronics Co., Ltd.（www.kinghelm.net）has technical backbones from Tsinghua University and UESTC, and has introduced overseas returnee professionals. Kinghelm is able to develop highly reliable and high-performance antenna and connector products.KH series products of "Kinghelm" brand include Beidou/GPS antennas, RF adapter connectors, plug connector, electrical data connectors, terminals, and customized vehicle harnesses, industrial / medical connectors, and special antenna connectors."Kinghelm connects world", Kinghelm has grown with the development of China's Beidou industry. Starting from supplying Beidou/GPS dual mode antennas, IPEX terminals, and RF adapter cables for automotive manufacturers, Kinghelm has continuously developed products. Currently, it has a series of WiFi, Bluetooth, NB-loT, LoRa, Zigbee, UWB, and GSM antennas, RFID tags, RF adapter cables, standard microwave antennas, vehicle grade SMA, SMB, FAKRA holders, coaxial cables, and can customize non-standard antenna connectors based on customer drawings or samples.