What are these connecting thingy on my mainboard called? - Comprehensive Guide to Common JST Connector Types

These are called "JST Connectors". JST (Japan Solderless Terminal) connectors are vital components in electronics, valued for their compact design and reliability. They are extensively used in industries like consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial equipment. In printers, particularly at BCH Technologies repair facilities, JST connectors are essential for linking internal components such as sensors, motors, and power systems.

This guide highlights the most common types of JST connectors, detailing their specifications, applications, and the crimping tools required for installation. While we cover frequently encountered connectors, we recommend visiting https://www.jst.com/ for the full product lineup.

• To install JST terminals onto wires, a crimping tool (crimper) is necessary. We listed the crimper below each JST series. Example of a crimper. 
• For wire extraction from the housing, a terminal removal tool or pin extraction tool is required. Example of an extraction kit.

1. XH Series (2.5mm Pitch): Double-Groove

XH connectors are robust and frequently used in power connections for printers and other consumer electronics. Their slightly larger pitch allows for thicker wires, supporting higher current.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 2.5mm or 2.54 mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 22-28

• Applications: Power supply connections in printers, low-cost electronics.

• Get the XH Connectors Here.

• Crimp Tool for XH Series 

XH connectors are ideal for connecting printhead components or power modules inside printers.

2. PH Series (2.0mm Pitch) Single or Double Groove No Hook

PH connectors offer a balance between size and performance, making them a go-to for internal connections in printers, small circuit boards, and battery packs.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 2.0mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 24-32

• Applications: Battery connections, small sensors, printhead wiring.

• Get the PH Connectors

• Crimping Tool for PH Series

PH connectors are often used to connect printer sensors and small internal motors.

3. PA Series (2.0mm Pitch): Wide Hook

PA connectors are highly secure and vibration-resistant, making them suitable for printer components requiring stability during operation.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 2.0mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 28-32

• Applications: Office printers, communication devices.

• Get the PA Connectors

• Get the JST PA Crimp Tool

Used for connecting power boards and control circuits inside BCH printers.

4. ZH Series (1.5mm Pitch) Grooves on the Sides

The ZH series is perfect for space-constrained applications, including 3D printers and compact electronics.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 1.5mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 26-32

• Applications: 3D printers, small sensors.

• Get JST ZH Connectors

• Get JST ZH Crimp Tool

Ideal for connecting delicate sensors and small actuators inside compact printers.

5. SH/SR Series (1.0mm Pitch) Side Tabs

These ultra-compact connectors are used in delicate assemblies such as laptops and mini printers.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 1.0mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 28-32

• Applications: Laptop components, mini printers.

• Get JST SH Connectors
• Get JST SH Crimpers

Perfect for high-density, small-scale connections inside portable printers.

6. GH Series (1.25mm Pitch) Hook & Case

GH connectors provide secure connections in compact designs, suitable for sensors and drones.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 1.25mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 28-32

• Applications: Precision electronics, sensor modules.

Used in high-precision parts of printers, like printhead alignment sensors.

7. RCY / SYP Series (2.5mm Pitch) For Batteries

SYP connectors are two-position connectors frequently used in battery packs and RC devices. The RCY series refers to the connector family, while SYP stands for SYP-02T-1, indicating a two-position plug housing within the RCY connector series.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 2.5mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 22-28

• Applications: Battery connectors, RC power systems.

• Get RCY Connectors

• Get RCY Crimping Tool

Useful for connecting backup battery packs in larger printers.

8. SM Series (2.5mm Pitch) Middle Hook & Wing

The SM series is designed for wire-to-wire connections, ideal for LED lighting and modular electronics.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 2.5mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 22-28

• Applications: LED strips, power distribution.

• Get JST SM Connectors

• Get JST SM Crimper

Often used for modular components inside industrial printers.

9. PHB HY Series (2.0mm Pitch) Single-Groove with Hook

PHB HY connectors are designed for high-density, high-durability applications. I included this one because some of of the dual-printhead printers using this connector. It is similar to PH, but with a hook.

• Pitch (Pin Spacing): 2.0mm

• Wire Gauge Compatibility: AWG 24-30

• Applications: Industrial control systems, communication devices. 

• Get PHB HY Connectors
• Get PHB HY Crimper

Common in advanced printer control panels and motor connections.