How do I tell the difference between JST and Molex Picoblade?

Question

Hi,

I've got some video transmitters and FPV cameras for race quadcopters but I'm having trouble identifying the connectors on them. I thought the connectors were JST-SH (1mm pitch) but it turns out they're 1.25mm pitch. The manufacturer tells me they're JST 1.25mm, although I'm also having trouble tracking down where to buy the connectors (I want to make my own wiring harnesses to connect to the VTXs and cameras)

Molex Picoblade looks similar, though - how can I tell the difference? I ordered a ton of 1mm connectors when I thought they were JST-SH and they don't fit, of course. I don't want to make the same mistake again.

Thanks!

shabaz · Answer

Hi Chris, You can measure the distance across multiple pins, and divide, to confirm if the pitch is 1mm or 1.25mm.

rachaelp · Answer

Hi Chris, Maybe this page could give some useful info: https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?1493712-JST-connector-confusion-the-real-story Best Regards, Rachael

Luka1989 · Answer

Hi Chris, it's been 6 years. But I hope these 3 easy ways to distinguish JST SH and molex PicoBlade will help others like you.

shabaz · Answer

Hi Chris, If not by measurement, then you really can only visually compare, and there is a photo in the link Rachael provided. The differences can be seen, some proportions of the plastic features and marking are different - subtle, but they are visually different. I can't see what other type of solution you could be looking for if not measurement or visual comparison, could you clarify? If you wish to just visually compare then it could be worthwhile to keep one JST 'SH' and one Molex PicoBlade handy to visually inspect if it is not clear from photos on the Internet. The pitch is a very clear distinguishing feature between the two, and if there are more than two pins in your connector, then you don't need to measure the distance between two pins, you can measure the distance between more than two pins and then divide. Then it is very easy to distinguish between 1mm and 1.25mm. Even if there are just two pins, a standard steel rule is enough to distinguish between 1mm and 1.25mm, even without calipers. I use a steel ruler with very fine markings - some have 0.5mm markings too, and it is not difficult to distinguish 0.25mm by eye with a good steel ruler, but a magnifier could be used as well if needed. With digital calipers it should be very straightforward provided the pin thickness is taken into account (this should be in the part datasheet), but a ruler is sufficient at this pitch. If you have digital calipers you could measure the entire body of the connector and compare with the connector datasheet.

How do I tell the difference between JST and Molex Picoblade?

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