[Technical Guide] Connector Selection and Crimping Applications: 5 Key Technical Q&As | Taiwan Right Angle Connectors, Terminals & Accessories Manufacturer | TKP

[Technical Guide] Connector Selection and Crimping Applications: 5 Key Technical Q&As | TKP - An ISO 9001 and IATF16949 Quality endorsed company which is an indication of our commitment to provide customers with quality service and products . We have in-house R&D and manufacturing of our own products with TKP brand.

TKP Connector Technical Guide: Pitch Measurement, AWG Current, Plating Selection, Flammability, and Crimping Process Illustration

[Technical Guide] Connector Selection and Crimping Applications: 5 Key Technical Q&As

Why can't the crimped terminal be locked into the housing? Will mixing gold and tin plating cause issues? This guide provides an in-depth analysis of connector pitch, wire gauge current ratings, flammability standards, and crimping processes. Master the essential connector fundamentals required by engineers in just 5 minutes, and effectively troubleshoot common production site challenges.


Q1: How to accurately measure connector "Pitch"?

Pitch is defined as the distance between the center points of two adjacent contacts (terminals). TKP recommends the "Average Method" for precise data:

Formula: Pitch = Total Length (L) / (Total Number of Pins - 1)

*It is recommended to measure at the base of the terminal to avoid errors caused by tip deformation.


Q2: What is the relationship between AWG wire gauge and terminal current rating?

The smaller the AWG number, the thicker the wire, and the higher the current it can carry. Below are typical reference values used by TKP:

Wire Gauge (AWG)Recommended Current
18 AWG7.0A - 9.0A
22 AWG3.0A - 4.0A
26 AWG1.0A - 2.0A

*Actual capacity depends on temperature rise, terminal material, and insulation thickness.


Q3: Terminal Plating: How to choose between Gold and Tin?

  • Tin Plating: Cost-effective with good conductivity. Suitable for dry environments and low mating cycle products.
  • Gold Plating: Excellent oxidation resistance and stable contact resistance. Suitable for precision signal transmission or harsh industrial environments.

Q4: What is the Flammability Rating? What does UL 94V-0 represent?

To ensure electrical safety, housings must often comply with UL 94 standards:

  • UL 94V-0: One of the highest safety levels; burning stops within 10 seconds without flaming drips.
  • Safety Ranking: V-0 > V-1 > V-2 > HB.

Q5: Why can't the crimped terminal be locked into the housing?

This is usually caused by geometric deformation during the crimping process. Please check:

  1. Crimp height too high: The insulation crimp is too wide, getting stuck at the housing entry.
  2. Terminal warpage (Banana effect): The terminal bends after crimping, failing to align with the slot.
  3. Damaged Lance: The locking lance is flattened, losing its ability to secure the terminal.

[Technical Guide] Connector Selection and Crimping Applications: 5 Key Technical Q&As | Surface Mount Connectors Manufacturer | TKP

Located in Taiwan, China since 1987, Taiwan King Pin Terminal Co., Ltd. has been a manufacturer of connectors, terminals and accessories. Their main electronic and computer connectors, terminals and accessories include, male headers and female headers, terminal connectors, connector housings, electronic connectors, computer connectors and wire harness assembly and accessories, which are used for all types of industrial and electronic products.

Professional, leading manufacturer of connectors included Housing, wafer and terminal for lots type of industrial and electronic products. TKP - An ISO 9001 and IATF16949 Quality endorsed company which is an indication of our commitment to provide customers with quality service and products . We have in-house R&D and manufacturing of our own products with TKP brand. with quality Connectors, Terminal, Housing, Headers, Wire Harness Assembling for more than 29 years. ISO, UL, SCA and TUV certified connector designing, manufacturing and distribution of electronic components that are widely used in fields, such as consumer electronics, computer peripherals, telecommunication, automobiles, video games, digital products, OA, internet facilities and others.

TKP has been offering customers high-quality connectors, terminals and accessories, both with advanced technology and 29 years of experience, TKP ensures each customer's demands are met.