COMPONENT SOURCING / CI
Connectors & interconnects
Connector selection starts with the mating system. A useful request describes both the exact item and how it connects, so an apparently similar housing is not mistaken for a compatible assembly.
- Board-to-board
- Wire-to-board
- Cable assemblies
SOURCING CHECKLIST
Details to include with your RFQ
Keep the requirements on the same enquiry. Mark unknown details for confirmation.
- 01
Complete assembly identity
Manufacturer series, full housing and contact part numbers, and whether the request is for a bare housing, contacts or a complete cable assembly.
- 02
Mating details
Mating connector part number, pitch, number of positions, keying, polarisation, locking mechanism and any sealing requirement.
- 03
Mounting and orientation
Surface mount, through hole or panel mount; vertical or right angle; board footprint, stack height and available clearance.
- 04
Contact requirements
Current and voltage requirements, contact finish, wire gauge, termination method and applicable drawing or assembly instructions.
- 05
Commercial details
Quantity, required delivery date, approved drawing revision and any allowed changes. For cable assemblies, provide a drawing with pin-to-pin wiring and length tolerances.
ENGINEERING REVIEW
Keep the original requirement visible
The same pitch and number of positions do not establish mating compatibility. Any change to contacts, keying, plating, retention or the mating pair needs engineering approval.
List a proposed alternative separately with its full code and approval status. Confirm the part, quantity, condition, documentation and delivery assumptions before purchasing.
Read the alternatives checklistCOMMON QUESTIONS
Before you enquire
Does a housing part number include the contacts?
Do not assume it does. State whether contacts, seals, accessories or terminals are included in the request and check the manufacturer product documentation.
What is useful when the part number is unknown?
Provide photographs of both halves, measured pitch and dimensions, position count, markings and the application. Treat identification as a separate step before ordering.