3-Position IDC Plug for Discrete Wire Harnesses
The TE Connectivity 281783-3 is a 3-position IDC plug from the HE13/HE14 series, designed for mass-termination of discrete 24-26 AWG wire to a 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch ribbon-cable-compatible header. The free-hanging plug uses a detent lock for positive retention against the mating header, and the tin-plated female socket contacts suit low-cycle, cost-sensitive internal wiring. The blue housing aids visual identification in multi-wire harnesses.
IDC Termination and Wire Range
The IDC termination method pierces the insulation of 24-26 AWG discrete wire in one press operation, eliminating the need for individual crimp terminals. This speeds harness assembly but requires a proper IDC hand tool or press to ensure the insulation displacement forks fully engage the conductor. The 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch matches standard ribbon cable and the mating header's pin spacing, so the plug aligns directly with the board footprint.
Mating and Retention
This plug mates with a 0.100" (2.54mm) pitch HE13/HE14 header (male pin strip) of the same position count. The detent lock on the plug body engages a corresponding ramp on the header shroud, giving a tactile click when fully seated. The free-hanging mount means the connector is not board-locked; strain relief on the wire bundle is recommended for applications subject to vibration or cable pull.