Power header — what the 40 A means
The Molex 78229-2001 is a 2-position, dual-row male header in the GbX I-Trac 78229 series — a board-edge power interconnect with press-fit termination. Rated 40 A per circuit at 250V, which puts it well above typical signal headers: the current density across just two power contacts is the defining constraint, so this fits power-distribution or bus-bar BOM lines rather than signal-routing ones. Contacts carry 30 µin (0.76 µm) gold over nickel on both the mating face and the solder side — the heavier plating grade is consistent with both the 40 A current path and repeated mating cycles. The housing is UL94 V-0 rated, which is the minimum fire-retardance class you'd want in a board-edge power zone.
Board-edge fit and termination
Mounting type is board edge, through hole, right angle — the header seats at the PCB edge and routes power contacts perpendicular into the board. Press-fit termination means no solder reflow on those contacts; the press-fit pins carry current directly into plated-through holes, which reduces assembly steps on high-current planes. The board guide feature keeps the header seated and aligned during vibration or thermal cycling — relevant for board-edge power in industrial or transportation applications. Operating temperature is -20°C to 85°C. That range covers most industrial and commercial enclosures; it does not cover the extended thermal extremes of under-hood automotive or outdoor cabinet environments, so check the mated stack derating curve against your worst-case ambient before committing.
Sourcing and compliance
Product status is Active and ROHS3 Compliant. No official successor or cross-reference listed. Quoted to order against the BOM quantity on RFQ — confirm your position count and the mating half before placing the order.
