RH7161C-1-10/174975-2 16 Position, Automotive Connector for Female Terminals

Detailed Product Description

The RH7161C-1-10/174975-2 is a high-density, 16-position wire-to-board connector assembly designed for automotive and industrial applications requiring reliable signal transmission in a compact form factor. This vertical-mount, fully shrouded header is specifically configured for use with female terminals, making it an excellent choice for PCB-based control modules, sensor interfaces, and low-current signal distribution systems.

Product Type Features

This connector features a rectangular shape, which provides efficient space utilization on printed circuit boards. The header type is fully shrouded, meaning the terminal pins are completely surrounded by a protective plastic housing wall. This shroud design offers several benefits: it guides the mating female connector into correct alignment, protects the male tab contacts from physical damage during handling and shipping, and reduces the risk of bent pins. The header is non-mixed, non-hybrid – all 16 positions accept the same type of terminal interface. As a connector assembly, it comes as a complete, ready-to-mount unit. Sealable: No – this connector is intentionally non-sealable, making it suitable for dry, protected environments such as interior cabin electronics or climate-controlled industrial panels. The connector system is wire-to-board, and it terminates to a printed circuit board.

Configuration Features

The header is organized as 1 section with 16 signal positions arranged in 2 rows of 8 positions each. The PCB mount orientation is vertical, meaning the connector stands upright on the PCB surface, with the mating direction perpendicular to the board. This vertical orientation is ideal for applications where board space is limited or where wire harnesses approach from above. The total number of positions is 16, providing ample signal channels for moderate-complexity circuits.

Electrical Characteristics

This connector is rated for a nominal voltage architecture of 12V, with a maximum voltage rating of 12 VDC and an operating voltage of 12 VDC. It is specifically designed for 12V automotive electrical systems, including body control modules, lighting controllers, sensor networks, and infotainment interfaces. The voltage rating ensures safe creepage and clearance distances in typical PCB environments.

Body Features

The primary product color is black, offering a professional appearance along with good resistance to UV exposure and thermal aging. The black housing also provides visual contrast for inspection and assembly verification.

Contact Features

The header accepts tab-type contacts (male terminals) designed for mating with female terminals on the wire side. The mating tab thickness is 0.64 mm (0.025 in) , and the mating tab width is 1 mm (0.04 in) . This compact tab size is optimized for low-current signal applications. The maximum contact current rating is 1 A per position, making this connector suitable for signal-level currents, sensor inputs, status indicators, and low-power control lines. The contact mating area plating material is Tin (Sn) , which provides good solderability, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness for standard automotive environments. Tin-plated contacts are appropriate for applications with moderate temperature ranges and normal environmental exposure.

Termination Features

The termination method to PCB is Through Hole – Screw. This unique termination method combines the mechanical robustness of through-hole mounting with the convenience of screw-type electrical connection. Screw terminals allow for field serviceability – wires can be attached or detached without specialized crimping tools. This is particularly valuable for prototype development, maintenance, repair, and applications where wiring configurations may change over time.

Mechanical Attachment

PCB mount alignment is not provided as a separate feature – alignment is achieved through the mounting holes. Mating alignment is included, ensuring proper orientation when the female connector is plugged in. The PCB mount retention type is Mounting Hole – the header features mounting holes with PCB mount retention to securely anchor the connector to the board. These mounting holes work with screws or rivets to provide strong mechanical attachment, preventing the connector from loosening due to vibration or repeated mating cycles. Mating retention type is Locking Interface – once the female connector is fully inserted, a locking feature holds it in place, preventing accidental disengagement. Panel mount feature is not provided – this connector is designed specifically for board mounting. The connector mounting type is Board Mount.

Housing Features

The centerline (pitch) between adjacent contacts is 2.5 mm (0.098 in) . This fine pitch allows for high contact density in a small board area, making the connector ideal for space-constrained PCB layouts. The 2.5mm pitch is a common standard for automotive signal connectors, balancing density with manufacturability.