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Connector Selection Basics: Housings, Terminals & Pin Headers

A three-step method to check structure, compatibility and application requirements.
July 12, 2026

Start connector selection by confirming that the housing, terminal and pin header belong to the same compatible series. Do not rely on appearance or a similar part number alone.

Three selection steps

  1. Check the structure: verify mating direction, polarization, latching and keying.
  2. Check compatibility: confirm positions, layout, pitch and series compatibility between housings, terminals and pin headers.
  3. Check the application: confirm wire size, electrical requirements, temperature, vibration, humidity and whether sealing or secondary locking is required.

Product references

Use the following published products as starting points for category checks: ZH05-20DP-HU(A) connector housing, ZH05-2224PCF connector terminal, and 53398-0271 pin header. Always verify the applicable mating and crimping documentation.

Prepare for quotation

Please provide the current part number, clear photos, number of positions, wire size, operating environment and expected quantity. Harness drawings or connector-interface drawings help speed up matching.

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