JST SM 3-Pin Connector Pair (Male + Female) with 15cm Wire - For WS2812B LED Strips

Specifications

• Connector Type: JST-SM (3-Pin).

• Pitch: 2.54mm.

• Wire Length: ~15cm per side (Total ~30cm).

• Wire Gauge: 22AWG - 24AWG.

• Max Current: 3A.

• Max Voltage: 250V.

• Locking Mechanism: Integrated Friction Latch.

Compatibility & Platform Support ????

• WS2812B / Neopixel: Native Match. This is the exact connector found on the start and end of standard 5m LED reels.

• Sensors: Compatible with some 3-wire digital sensors (Sharp IR, etc.) that use JST-SM.

Key Applications & Projects

• LED Matrix Panels: Linking multiple flexible matrices together.

• PC Modding: Custom RGB lighting cables.

• Wearables: Detachable battery/controller packs for LED costumes.

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety ⚠️

• Standard LED Pinout:

  • Red: +5V (VCC)

  • Green/White (Middle): Data (DIN/DOUT)

  • Black/White (Side): Ground (GND)

  • Note: Wire colours can vary by batch! Always trace the pin from the connector to the LED strip markings (+, DI, GND) before powering up.

• Directionality: Addressable LEDs are directional (Data In -> Data Out). Ensure you use the correct gender (Male/Female) to match the data flow arrow on your strip.

Accessories

• Included in the Package:

  • 1 x JST-SM 3-Pin Male Connector with Wire

  • 1 x JST-SM 3-Pin Female Connector with Wire

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is this the connector for WS2812B LEDs? Yes, this is the standard 3-pin connector used on almost all WS2812B and WS2811 strips.

2. What are the wire colors? The colors in the image are Red, Green, and White/Black. Usually, Red is VCC, Middle is Data, and the third wire is GND. Always verify with a multimeter.

3. How much current can it handle? Rated for 3 Amps. If you are powering a very long strip (e.g., >100 LEDs) at full white brightness, you should inject power directly to the strip wires, not just through this connector.

4. Is it waterproof? No. For outdoor use, use the round 3-pin "Waterproof" connectors (often called xConnect or Ray Wu style).

5. Which side is input? On most LED strips, the Female housing (with sockets) is the Input (Data In), and the Male housing (with pins) is the Output (Data Out).

6. Can I extend the wires? Yes, you can solder more wire to the ends to make a longer extension cable.

7. Is this a servo connector? No. Servo connectors (DuPont/JR) look similar but do not have the locking latch.

8. Does it lock? Yes, the plastic latch ensures the connection cannot vibrate loose.

9. What is the wire material? Tinned Copper.

10. What is the total length connected? Approx 30cm (15cm + 15cm).

11. Can I use it for 12V WS2811? Yes, it is rated for up to 250V, so 12V is perfectly safe.

12. Why are there 3 wires? Power (+), Ground (-), and Data (Signal).

13. Is the pitch 2.54mm? Yes, the pin spacing is 2.54mm.

14. Will it fit into a breadboard? No, the plastic housing is too bulky. You need to solder male header pins to the wires if you want to plug it into a breadboard.

15. Can I use it for a potentiometer? Yes, since potentiometers also have 3 pins, this makes a good detachable connector for panel-mount pots.

16. Can I disconnect it easily? Yes, just press the latch lever and pull.

17. Are the ends stripped? Yes, the wire ends are usually stripped and tinned.

18. What happens if I reverse the polarity? The connector is keyed, so you can't plug it in backwards. However, you must ensure you soldered Red to Red and Black to Black correctly.

19. Can I use this for audio? Yes, for small speakers, but not for high-fidelity signals as it's not shielded.

20. Is it flame retardant? The housing is usually Nylon 66, UL94V-0 rated.