FTDI Header (on Pro Mini) and removable pins

[marceltrapman]

While working on my 'minimize what can be minimized' I am now thinking how I can change/remove the header for the FTDI programmer on the Pro Mini.

Straight or 90degrees they always take more 'air' than necessary so I would like to use a header or plugs that can be removed.

Does anyone have a suggestion for what I can use?

[korttoma]

I usually don't solder any header to the FTDI programmer pins on the Pro Minis. I just shove the pins on the FTDI USB interface through the holes on the Pro Mini where the header should be during programming and it works fine.

If I have a different source of power to the pro mini I just bend the VCC pin from the FTDI USB interface so it does not connect (note: bend it to many times it will brake).

[Yveaux]

When you're designing your own PCB you can consider a PCB connector like the one used for isa cards or the c64 cartridge connector. Just reserve a few tracks on the edge of your PCB and slide over the connector when you need it connected.

Too big, but just for the idea:https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/proxy/7LrkILFdxzV5bCUh5JJcfEBU_01hU5D6D2QUGCHPQlEZaQ2YpIJK-6YZorrXemi-G3kJ965mpbWekRh8MPeSb1beI8bxhCYj7oIkZ4iUCXpKoVFA66bpSWz67smwJCWBDbvgbECxHD_0WJb6KPiAaT0Rr3Vb1daqh4sdDG_ZXQP2XOrOGxjyaAMyhPjMRgs=w418-h235-nc

[Zeph]

Cool new tech - you can have a few strips near the edge of a PCB which then fit in a socket :-) :-)

[Yveaux]

@Zeph It's ultra low-tech, but it just works. What's wrong with that ? ;-)
Takes up little board space and doesn't add any costs to the board, only to the programmer (cable).
Only problem is I couldn't find any suitable, low pin count connector for it at the regular suppliers... Possibly because I don't know the actual name of such connector.

[marceltrapman]

Thank you guys, I soldered a board yesterday without connector. While I am still trying out things it was a bit of a pain to keep it in my hands (will use a piece of tape next time I think) but it works.

@Yveaux Next thing was ask you for the name of the connector :) I removed a board from a scanner a few weeks ago and found a couple of these connectors and they actually look nice.

[Zeph]

@Yveaux I have nothing against low tech that works!

I was just amused, since PCB edge connectors were ubiquitous decades ago. And it's still a good option.

Or are you looking for something fancier than "card edge connector"?

[Yveaux]

@Zeph said:

card edge connector

Now we know the 'official' name!

Thanks dude :+1:

I think this one should suffice for a ISP connector: http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/7-5530843-7/A101966-ND/2310829