Ejector Header Anatomy: Levers, Latches, Retention and Service

Why “horn” headers

Side latches look like horns, hence the Chinese name. In English they are ejector headers: the pin field matches a box header, plus levers that lock an IDC plug and lift it out without pulling the ribbon.

Parts

• Shroud: PA66-GF or high-temp PA6T/LCP.
• Square pins: 2.54 / 2.00 / 1.27mm, same logic as box headers.
• Latches / levers: long latches are finger-friendly and bulky; short SMT latches save height but may need a tool.

Service

Levers break when bent sideways. The WI should say “unlock, then pull the plug”. Worn latches click but release in vibration — replace the header, not only the cable.

Junjia offers straight latched, right-angle and short-latch SMT ejector headers. Choose latch length from finger access in the chassis, not from a catalog glamour shot.