A locking ramp fastening type holds the mated pair together, making it suitable for environments where vibration could otherwise separate the connection.
The 1-1971817-8 is packaged in bulk, which is typical for through-hole headers. For volume builds, confirm the packaging format with your distributor; bulk trays or tubes may be available depending on the supplier.
This header mates with a corresponding receptacle housing that accepts 2.50mm pitch crimp terminals. The tab contact type and rectangular contact shape are standard for this pitch class. The contact length - post of 0.114" (2.90mm) determines the PCB hole depth and solder fillet height.
The closest functional second-source within the same series is the 1-2232960-3, which shares the same 0.098" (2.50mm) pitch, shrouded - 4 wall, locking ramp, and UL94 V-0 rating. The key difference is position count: the 1-1971817-8 has 8 positions, while the 1-2232960-3 has 3 positions. Both are active and ROHS3 compliant.