Sockets and pins are common electronic connector components that establish physical connections between circuit boards and other devices. Here are the differences between them:
Structure:
Female Header: A female header is a connector that has a hole or socket. They usually contain a series of holes that match the pins of the header to accept the header's insertion. The shape of the female header is usually open, which facilitates the insertion of header pins.
Pin Headers: Pin headers are metal pin connectors with a cylindrical shape. They are inserted into the holes of the header to establish physical contact with the pins of the header.
Function:
Female headers: Female headers provide locations for pin headers to be inserted and connected, allowing the circuit board to connect to other devices. It provides stable support and positioning and ensures correct mating with the pin headers.
Pin header: The pin header is part of the connector and is connected to other device modules by inserting into the hole of the header. They carry current, signals, or power and make electrical connections.
Installation method:
Female header: The female header is usually welded or mounted on the surface of the circuit board, and is fixedly connected to the circuit board through welding pins. There are also some headers that are directly inserted into holes or connected to housings or devices through threads.
Pin headers: Pin headers are usually inserted into the holes of the header so that they make physical contact with the pins of the header. There are also push-in pin headers that can be inserted directly into holes on the circuit board.
Number of plugs and unplugs:
Busbar: The busbar is usually installed in the equipment with certainty and does not require frequent disassembly. They are plugged and unplugged less often.
Pin headers: Pin headers may require frequent plugging and unplugging operations, such as connecting and disconnecting external devices or modules. Therefore, pin headers usually have better durability and plug-in performance.
To summarize, a female header is a connector that provides a hole or socket to accept a header pin and make a connection. Pin headers are metal pin connectors inserted into female header holes to establish physical and electrical connections with other devices. Together they form a reliable means of electronic connection.