Electronic – Do I need to solder snap in through-hole connectors

pcbsoldering

I have a snap-in style through-hole pins on a header. They snap into my board firmly and stay securely. Do I have to solder these connectors? Are through-hole style connectors ever rated for use without solder?

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I know I could get away without soldering the connections, I am wondering if they are designed to be put into service without soldering?

For reference, I am using a 12 pin header (1-2178713-2) from TE. Here is a link to the data sheet.

http://www.te.com/commerce/DocumentDelivery/DDEController?Action=srchrtrv&DocNm=2178713&DocType=Customer+Drawing&DocLang=English

Best Answer

If you look at the more detailed data from TE it seems that these do require soldering. Micro Match Connectors.

There are connecters that do not require soldering - usually called "press-fit" however these are not that type.

Curiously the data sheet does not provide any soldering information, although it does describe the "solder contact holes".

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