2.54mm 2x40 Pin Double Row Female Stacking Header - Long Tail (11mm) PC104 Style

Specifications

• Pitch: 2.54mm (0.1").

• Rows: 2 (Double Row).

• Pins: 2x40 (80 Pins Total).

• Gender: Female (Socket) with Long Male Pins.

• Plastic Height: 8.5mm (Standard Header Height).

• Pin Length (Tail): 11mm (Extended).

• Total Pin Length: Approx 19.5mm.

• Contact Material: Gold Flash / Tin Plated.

• Current Rating: 3A per pin.

Compatibility & Platform Support

• PC104 Modules: Compatible with standard non-bus PC104 stacking requirements.

• Arduino Mega: Can be cut to create custom shields for the Arduino Mega 2560 double-row header.

• Raspberry Pi: Useful for custom HAT stacking (though Pi uses 2x20, you can cut this to fit).

Key Applications & Projects

• Multi-Board Sandwiches: Stack a Driver Board on top of a Controller Board.

• Prototyping: Plug this into a breadboard and still have a female socket on top for wires.

• Space Saving: Eliminates the need for wire harnesses between closely mounted boards.

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety ⚠️

• Cutting to Size: To cut this header, use flush cutters to snip the plastic between the pins you want to separate. Then, sacrifice (pull out) the pin in that cut spot. Do not try to cut through the metal pin and plastic at the same time, or the plastic will shatter.

• Clearance: Ensure the 11mm tails don't short out against components on the board below. Use standoffs (spacers) to maintain the correct gap.

Accessories

• Included in the Package:

  • 1 x 2.54mm 2x40 Pin Female Stacking Header (11mm Tail)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a "Stacking Header"? It is a female header with very long legs. It allows you to solder it to a PCB and still plug it into another socket below, effectively letting you "stack" PCBs on top of each other.

2. Can I cut it? Yes. Count the pins you need, pull out the next pin with pliers, and then cut the empty plastic slot with cutters. Sand the edge smooth.

3. What is the "Plastic Height"? The black plastic body is 8.5mm tall, which is the standard height for female headers.

4. How long are the pins? The pins extend 11mm below the plastic.

5. Is this PC104 standard? It follows the style (long pin double row) used in PC104, but true PC104 connectors often have specific press-fit requirements. This is a solder-tail version suitable for general hobby/industrial use.

6. Will it fit Arduino Mega? Yes, the Mega has a 2x18 header at the back. You can cut this 2x40 strip to fit that section perfectly.

7. What is the pin pitch? Standard 2.54mm (100 mil).

8. Can I use it on a breadboard? Yes! The long legs go deep into the breadboard, and you get a sturdy female socket on top to plug in jumper wires.

9. Are the pins gold plated? Usually, they are gold flash or tin-plated for good conductivity.

10. Do I need spacers? Yes, when stacking boards, you should use M3 Standoffs to mechanically support the stack so the connectors don't bend.

11. What is the current rating? Standard 3 Amps per pin.

12. Is it keyed? No, it is an open header without a shroud or key notch.

13. Can I use it for Raspberry Pi? Yes, cut it down to 2x20 pins and it works perfectly for stacking HATs.

14. Why is it called "PC104"? PC104 is an embedded computer standard that stacks boards like building blocks. This connector style enables that architecture.

15. Is it RoHS compliant? Yes, generally.

16. How do I solder it? Insert it into the PCB, flip the board (ensure it stays straight!), and solder the legs from the bottom. Be careful not to bridge pins as they are close together.

17. Can I bend the pins? They are rigid. Bending them 90 degrees is difficult and might break the plastic. Use "Right Angle" headers if you need a 90-degree turn.

18. Does it mate with standard male headers? Yes, the top female side accepts standard square pin headers.

19. What is the total height? 8.5mm (Body) + 11mm (Tail) = 19.5mm total metal length.

20. Is the tail square or round? The tails are typically Square 0.64mm pins.