JST ZH 1.5mm Connector: Complete Guide to Specs, Pinout, Micro Servo Wiring, PCB Footprint & ZH vs PH
The JST ZH connector is a 1.5mm pitch wire-to-board connector series manufactured by JST (Japan Solderless Terminal). It sits between the JST SH (1.0mm) and JST PH (2.0mm) in JST's connector lineup — compact enough for space-constrained designs, but with a higher current rating than SH and a smaller footprint than PH.
Despite being widely used in micro servo motors, compact sensor modules, Raspberry Pi HATs, and portable electronics, the JST ZH is the least-documented connector in the JST family. Most guides either skip it entirely or mention it in a single line. This guide covers everything: the complete part number system, all pin configurations from 2 to 15, micro servo wiring, PCB footprint data for KiCad and Eagle, a detailed ZH vs PH vs SH comparison, and how to crimp ZH terminals correctly.
What Is the JST ZH Connector?
The JST ZH is a 1.5mm pitch crimp-style wire-to-board connector from JST's compact connector family. "ZH" is the JST series designation — like all JST series names, it does not stand for specific words but is an internal JST product code.
The ZH series uses a top-entry locking latch on the housing that clicks onto a retention tab on the PCB header, providing a positive lock that prevents accidental disconnection. This distinguishes it from the JST SH (side latch) and makes it more secure than friction-lock connectors like DuPont or Molex PicoBlade.
Key characteristics:
- 1.5mm pitch — the center-to-center distance between adjacent contacts
- 1A per contact current rating
- 50V AC/DC voltage rating
- AWG 32–26 wire gauge range
- Top-latch housing with positive lock
- SMD PCB header (standard ZH header is surface-mount)
- 2 to 15 positions available
➡️ Shop JST ZH 1.5mm Connectors at Keszoox
JST ZH Connector Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Pitch | 1.5mm |
| Current rating | 1A per contact |
| Voltage rating | 50V AC/DC |
| Contact resistance (max.) | 30mΩ |
| Insulation resistance (min.) | 500MΩ |
| Dielectric withstanding voltage | 500V AC/min |
| Operating temperature | −25°C to +85°C |
| Wire gauge | AWG 32–26 (0.05–0.13mm²) |
| Wire insulation OD | 0.5–1.1mm |
| Pin count | 2–15 positions |
| Housing material | PA66, UL94V-0, natural |
| Contact material | Brass, tin-plated |
| PCB header type | SMD (standard) / Through-hole (B-ZH series) |
| Locking mechanism | Top latch (press down to release) |
| Mating cycles | 30 minimum |
➡️ Shop JST ZH Housings (ZHR), Headers (B-ZH) & Terminals (SZH)
JST ZH Part Number System
Wire Housing (Plug) — ZHR Series
| Part Number | Circuits |
|---|---|
| ZHR-2 | 2-pin housing |
| ZHR-3 | 3-pin housing |
| ZHR-4 | 4-pin housing |
| ZHR-5 | 5-pin housing |
| ZHR-6 | 6-pin housing |
| ZHR-7 | 7-pin housing |
| ZHR-8 | 8-pin housing |
| ZHR-10 | 10-pin housing |
| ZHR-12 | 12-pin housing |
| ZHR-15 | 15-pin housing |
➡️ Shop JST ZH ZHR Wire Housings — 2 to 15 Pin
Crimp Terminals — SZH Series
| Part Number | Type | Wire Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| SZH-002T-P0.5 | Female crimp terminal | AWG 32–28 (0.05–0.08mm²) |
| SZH-003T-P0.5 | Female crimp terminal | AWG 30–26 (0.05–0.13mm²) |
Terminal selection: Use SZH-002T-P0.5 for AWG 30–32 fine wire. Use SZH-003T-P0.5 for AWG 26–30 heavier wire. Using the wrong terminal for the wire gauge is the most common crimping mistake with ZH connectors.
➡️ Shop JST ZH SZH Crimp Terminals (SZH-002T / SZH-003T)
PCB Headers — B-ZH Series (SMD)
| Part Number | Circuits | Type |
|---|---|---|
| B-2B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 2-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-3B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 3-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-4B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 4-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-5B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 5-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-6B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 6-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-7B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 7-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-8B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 8-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-10B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 10-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-12B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 12-pin | SMD, top-entry |
| B-15B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 15-pin | SMD, top-entry |
(LF) = Lead-free (RoHS compliant). (SN) = Tin-plated contacts.
➡️ Shop JST ZH B-ZH SMD PCB Headers
JST ZH Pin Configurations: 2 to 15 Pin
| Pin Count | Housing | SMD Header | Width (approx.) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | ZHR-2 | B-2B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 4.5mm | Power, simple sensors, small LiPo |
| 3 | ZHR-3 | B-3B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 6.0mm | Micro servo (GND/VCC/Signal), RGB LED |
| 4 | ZHR-4 | B-4B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 7.5mm | I2C, UART, stepper motor coils |
| 5 | ZHR-5 | B-5B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 9.0mm | Multi-signal sensors, Raspberry Pi HAT |
| 6 | ZHR-6 | B-6B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 10.5mm | GPS modules, multi-channel sensors |
| 7 | ZHR-7 | B-7B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 12.0mm | Complex sensor harnesses |
| 8 | ZHR-8 | B-8B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 13.5mm | LCD interfaces, multi-channel ADC |
| 10 | ZHR-10 | B-10B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 16.5mm | High-density signal harnesses |
| 12 | ZHR-12 | B-12B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 19.5mm | Display interfaces |
| 15 | ZHR-15 | B-15B-ZH(LF)(SN) | 24.0mm | Complex harnesses |
➡️ Shop JST ZH Pre-Crimped Cable Assemblies — 2 to 15 Pin
JST ZH PCB Footprint: KiCad, Eagle & Dimensions
➡️ Shop JST ZH SMD Headers (B-ZH Series) for PCB Design
This is one of the most searched topics for ZH connectors among PCB designers. Here are the key dimensions for creating or verifying a ZH header footprint.
B-NB-ZH SMD Header Footprint Dimensions
| Dimension | Value |
|---|---|
| Pitch (contact spacing) | 1.5mm |
| Contact pad width | 0.8mm |
| Contact pad length | 1.8mm |
| Contact pad pitch | 1.5mm |
| Row spacing (pad center to pad center) | 4.5mm |
| Courtyard clearance | 0.25mm minimum |
| Header body height above PCB | 3.0mm (nominal) |
| Mounting tab pad (if present) | 1.6mm × 2.0mm |
KiCad Footprint
The JST ZH footprint is included in the official KiCad footprint library under Connector_JST:
- JST_ZH_B-NB-ZH-LF-SN_1x0N_P1.50mm_Vertical (N = circuit count)
- Example for 4-pin:
JST_ZH_B-4B-ZH-LF-SN_1x04_P1.50mm_Vertical - Symbol library:
Connector_JST, search JST_ZH — pre-linked in KiCad 6.0+
Eagle Footprint
Available in the SparkFun Eagle library (JST.lbr) and Adafruit Eagle library as JST-ZH-N (N = pin count). Official JST CAD data downloadable from jst.com under the ZH series product page.
Manual footprint tip: Single row of SMD pads, 1.5mm pitch, courtyard 0.5mm outside pad edges. Housing body extends approximately 2.5mm above and 1.0mm below the pad row.
➡️ Shop JST ZH B-ZH SMD Headers — All Pin Counts
JST ZH for Micro Servo Wiring
One of the most common real-world applications for the JST ZH 3-pin connector is sub-micro and micro servo motors — particularly in the 1–5 gram weight class used in micro RC aircraft, micro robots, and compact animatronics.
Why Micro Servos Use JST ZH
Sub-micro servos (1–3 gram, such as the HXT900, Emax ES08A, and similar) use a 3-pin JST ZH connector (ZHR-3) because the 1.5mm pitch is compact enough for the small servo body, the positive latch prevents vibration-induced disconnection, the 1A current rating covers micro servo stall current (typically 200–500mA), and AWG 28–30 wire matches the fine wire used in micro servo harnesses.
JST ZH 3-Pin Micro Servo Pinout
| Pin | Color (typical) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brown / Black | GND |
| 2 | Red | VCC (4.8–6.0V) |
| 3 | Orange / Yellow / White | Signal (PWM) |
Important: Always verify the pinout on your specific servo before connecting. Connecting VCC to the signal pin will damage the servo.
Connecting a ZH Micro Servo to a Flight Controller or Arduino
Most flight controllers and Arduino servo shields use standard 2.54mm (DuPont) servo headers. To connect a ZH micro servo:
- ZH-to-DuPont adapter cable: ZHR-3 housing on one end, three individual female DuPont terminals on the other — most common solution
- Re-crimp the servo wire: Remove ZHR-3 terminals and re-crimp into a 3-pin DuPont housing using a PA-09 crimper
➡️ Shop JST ZH 3-pin Pre-Crimped Cable Assemblies for Micro Servo
JST ZH for Raspberry Pi
The JST ZH connector appears on several Raspberry Pi accessories and HATs, particularly compact sensor boards designed for the Raspberry Pi Zero and Raspberry Pi 4/5. The 4-pin and 5-pin ZH configurations are most common.
- Compact sensor HATs: Environmental sensors use ZHR-4 or ZHR-5 for I2C or SPI connections
- Battery management boards: Pi Zero UPS boards often use ZHR-2 for LiPo battery connections
- GPIO breakout boards: Compact GPIO breakout boards for Pi Zero use ZH connectors to route signals to external modules
- Camera module accessories: Some third-party Pi camera accessories use ZH connectors for signal routing
➡️ Shop JST ZH Cable Assemblies for Raspberry Pi Accessories
How to Measure a JST ZH Connector
- Measure the pitch: Use digital calipers to measure center-to-center distance between two adjacent contacts. JST ZH = 1.5mm. SH = 1.0mm, GH = 1.25mm, PH = 2.0mm, XH = 2.5mm.
- Check housing width: ZHR-2 ≈ 4.5mm, ZHR-4 ≈ 7.5mm. Formula: width ≈ (N × 1.5mm) + 1.5mm.
- Check latch position: ZH has a top latch. SH has a side latch. PH has a top latch but is larger.
- Check wire gauge: ZH uses AWG 26–32. Thicker wire suggests XH or PH.
- Count the pins: ZH is available in 2–15 pins.
➡️ Full JST Connector Identification Guide → | How to Measure Connector Pitch → | Shop JST ZH Connectors
How to Crimp JST ZH Connectors
➡️ Shop JST ZH Pre-Crimped Cables — No Crimping Needed
Recommended Crimp Tools
| Tool | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Engineer PA-09 | $30–40 | Best overall for ZH, PH, SH, GH |
| IWISS SN-2549 | $15–25 | Budget option with 1.5mm dies |
| JST YRS-110 | $200+ | Official JST hand tool |
Step-by-Step: How to Crimp JST ZH
- Select the correct terminal: SZH-002T-P0.5 for AWG 30–32; SZH-003T-P0.5 for AWG 26–30
- Strip 1.0–1.5mm of insulation
- Twist conductor strands tightly
- Place the terminal in the PA-09 die at the AWG 28–30 position
- Insert the wire with conductor strands in the front wings and insulation in the rear wings
- Squeeze until the ratchet releases
- Pull-test: the terminal must not move
- Insert into ZHR housing from the rear until it clicks
➡️ Full Connector Crimping Guide with step-by-step photos → | Shop JST ZH Terminals & Housings
JST ZH vs JST PH: Key Differences
➡️ Shop JST ZH 1.5mm | Shop JST PH 2.0mm
| Feature | JST ZH | JST PH |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch | 1.5mm | 2.0mm |
| Current rating | 1A per contact | 2A per contact |
| Wire gauge | AWG 26–32 | AWG 24–32 |
| PCB header type | SMD (standard) | Through-hole (standard) |
| Housing width (4-pin) | 7.5mm | 10.0mm |
| LiPo battery use | Small cells (<300mAh) | Standard for most LiPo |
| Micro servo use | Yes — common | Uncommon (too large) |
| Interchangeable? | No — different pitch | |
ZH to PH Adapter Wiring
When connecting a ZH-terminated device to a PH-terminated board, use a ZH-to-PH adapter cable — ZHR housing on one end, PHR housing on the other, pin-for-pin. Use AWG 28–30 wire (compatible with both SZH and SPH terminals). Always verify pin 1 orientation before use.
➡️ JST PH 2.0mm Complete Guide → | Shop JST PH 2.0mm
JST ZH vs JST SH: Size Comparison
| Feature | JST ZH | JST SH |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch | 1.5mm | 1.0mm |
| Current rating | 1A per contact | 1A per contact |
| Wire gauge | AWG 26–32 | AWG 28–32 |
| FPV drone use | Uncommon | Standard |
| Micro servo use | Yes | No (too small) |
| Interchangeable? | No — different pitch | |
➡️ JST SH 1.0mm Complete Guide → | Shop JST SH 1.0mm
JST ZH Complete Series Comparison
| Series | Pitch | Current | Wire | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JST SH | 1.0mm | 1A | AWG 28–32 | FPV drones, ultra-compact |
| JST GH | 1.25mm | 1A | AWG 28–32 | Pixhawk/ArduPilot ecosystem |
| JST ZH | 1.5mm | 1A | AWG 26–32 | Micro servos, compact sensors |
| JST PH | 2.0mm | 2A | AWG 24–32 | LiPo batteries, Arduino |
| JST XH | 2.5mm | 3A | AWG 22–28 | 3D printers, RC receivers |
| JST VH | 3.96mm | 10A | AWG 18–22 | Power distribution, motors |
➡️ Wire-to-Board Connector Types: Complete Guide → | 12 Most Common JST Connector Types → | Shop JST ZH
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a JST ZH connector?
The JST ZH is a 1.5mm pitch wire-to-board crimp connector series manufactured by JST. It uses ZHR wire housings, SZH crimp terminals, and B-ZH SMD PCB headers. Rated for 1A per contact, 50V, AWG 26–32 wire. Common in micro servo motors, compact sensor modules, Raspberry Pi accessories, and portable electronics. ➡️ Shop JST ZH at Keszoox
What is the JST ZH pitch?
The JST ZH connector pitch is 1.5mm — between JST SH (1.0mm) and JST PH (2.0mm) in JST's connector lineup.
JST ZH vs JST PH — what's the difference?
JST ZH has a 1.5mm pitch, 1A current rating, and SMD headers. JST PH has a 2.0mm pitch, 2A current rating, and through-hole headers. ZH is smaller and used for micro servos and compact sensors. PH is larger and used for LiPo batteries and Arduino projects. Not interchangeable. ➡️ Shop ZH | Shop PH
What is the JST ZH connector used for?
JST ZH connectors are used in micro servo motors (3-pin ZHR-3), compact sensor modules, Raspberry Pi HATs, portable electronics, small LiPo battery packs (2-pin ZHR-2), and any application requiring a compact, positive-locking 1.5mm pitch connection. ➡️ Shop JST ZH Connectors
How to crimp JST ZH connectors?
Use an Engineer PA-09 or IWISS SN-2549 with SZH-002T-P0.5 (AWG 30–32) or SZH-003T-P0.5 (AWG 26–30). Strip 1.0–1.5mm, crimp with conductor in front wings and insulation in rear wings, pull-test, insert into ZHR housing until it clicks. See our full crimping guide. ➡️ Shop Pre-Crimped ZH Cables
What is the JST ZH connector part number?
ZHR-N (wire housing), SZH-002T-P0.5 (fine-wire terminal AWG 30–32), SZH-003T-P0.5 (standard terminal AWG 26–30), B-NB-ZH(LF)(SN) (SMD PCB header). N = pin count. ➡️ Shop JST ZH Parts
What is the JST ZH 2-pin connector part number?
ZHR-2 (housing), B-2B-ZH(LF)(SN) (SMD header), SZH-002T-P0.5 or SZH-003T-P0.5 (terminals). ➡️ Shop JST ZH 2-pin
What is the JST ZH 3-pin connector part number?
ZHR-3 (housing), B-3B-ZH(LF)(SN) (SMD header), SZH-002T-P0.5 or SZH-003T-P0.5 (terminals). Standard connector for sub-micro servo motors. ➡️ Shop JST ZH 3-pin
What is the JST ZH 4-pin connector part number?
ZHR-4 (housing), B-4B-ZH(LF)(SN) (SMD header). Used for I2C (GND/VCC/SDA/SCL) and UART. ➡️ Shop JST ZH 4-pin
What is the JST ZH 5-pin connector part number?
ZHR-5 (housing), B-5B-ZH(LF)(SN) (SMD header). Used for multi-signal sensors and Raspberry Pi HAT connections. ➡️ Shop JST ZH 5-pin
What is the JST ZH 6-pin connector part number?
ZHR-6 (housing), B-6B-ZH(LF)(SN) (SMD header). Used for GPS modules and multi-channel sensors. ➡️ Shop JST ZH 6-pin
How do you measure a JST ZH connector?
Use digital calipers to measure center-to-center distance between adjacent contacts — ZH = 1.5mm. Check housing width (ZHR-4 ≈ 7.5mm), top latch position, and AWG 26–32 wire gauge. See our connector pitch measurement guide. ➡️ Shop JST ZH Connectors
What crimp tool for JST ZH?
Engineer PA-09 (best hobbyist choice) or IWISS SN-2549 (budget). Both handle SZH-002T-P0.5 and SZH-003T-P0.5 terminals. ➡️ Shop JST ZH Pre-Crimped Cables — Skip the Crimping
Is JST ZH the same as JST PH?
No. JST ZH is 1.5mm pitch; JST PH is 2.0mm pitch. Different housings, terminals, and PCB headers. Not interchangeable despite similar latch style.
What is a JST ZH connector kit?
A JST ZH kit includes ZHR housings (2–10 pin), SZH crimp terminals, and sometimes B-ZH SMD headers. ➡️ Shop JST ZH Connector Kits at Keszoox
Shop JST ZH 1.5mm Connectors at Keszoox
We stock a complete range of JST ZH 1.5mm connectors — ZHR wire housings in 2–15 pin configurations, SZH crimp terminals, B-ZH SMD PCB headers, and pre-crimped cable assemblies, ready to ship worldwide.
- JST ZH Wire Housings (ZHR-2 to ZHR-15)
- JST ZH Crimp Terminals (SZH-002T-P0.5 / SZH-003T-P0.5)
- JST ZH SMD PCB Headers (B-ZH Series)
- JST ZH Pre-Crimped Cable Assemblies (2–10 pin)
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