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SEGGER Microcontroller GmbH

SEGGER 10-Pin Needle Adapter for J-Link Debug Programming

SEGGER 10-Pin Needle Adapter for J-Link Debug Programming

Adapts 20-pin J-Link connector to 10-pin needle pattern for connector-free PCB debugging

SKU: 8.06.04

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£136.80 inc VAT
£114.00 exc VAT
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Key Features

Foolproof three-pin positioning prevents misconnection
High-reliability spring pins rated >100,000 cycles
Eliminates PCB header costs and board space
Full JTAG and SWD protocol support
Optional 5V target power delivery
Compatible with all SEGGER debug probes
Minimal PCB footprint requirement

Overview

The SEGGER 10-Pin Needle Adapter represents a sophisticated solution for embedded developers seeking to eliminate bulky programming headers whilst maintaining full debug capabilities. This precision-engineered adapter bridges the gap between SEGGER's standard 20-pin debug interface and a minimal 10-pin needle footprint on your target PCB.

Unlike traditional headers that consume valuable PCB real estate and add component costs, this needle adapter contacts directly with copper pads through high-reliability spring pins. The innovative three-pin positioning system prevents incorrect connections whilst the robust spring contacts withstand over 100,000 programming cycles.

Engineers choose this solution for space-constrained designs, high-volume production runs, and anywhere connector costs impact project viability. The adapter supports both JTAG and SWD protocols with optional target power delivery, making it suitable for everything from initial prototype bring-up to final production programming. Compatible with the complete range of SEGGER J-Link debug probes and Flasher production tools, this adapter integrates seamlessly into existing development workflows.

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Eliminate Header Costs

Save 15-25p per PCB by removing expensive programming connectors whilst maintaining debug capability

Space-Constrained Designs

Minimal footprint allows debugging on compact boards where traditional headers won't fit

Production Reliability

High-cycle spring pins withstand volume programming without degradation or contact wear

Advanced Needle Adapter for Connector-Free Programming

The SEGGER 10-Pin Needle Adapter transforms how engineers connect J-Link and Flasher debug probes to target PCBs. This precision adapter eliminates the need for mounted connectors on your circuit boards whilst providing reliable spring-pin contact to a specialised footprint pattern.

Foolproof Connection Design

Three strategically positioned locating pins ensure the adapter can only connect in the correct orientation, preventing costly connection errors during development and production programming.

Cost-Saving PCB Design: Remove headers, save board real estate, reduce BOM costs by up to 15p per unit whilst maintaining professional debugging capabilities.

Technical Specifications

Input Connector 20-pin 0.1" (2.54mm) standard JTAG/SWD
Output Pattern 10-pin 0.05" (1.27mm) needle pattern
Spring Pins High-reliability, >100,000 cycle rating
PCB Footprint Minimal space requirement with tri-pin keying
Target Power Optional 5V supply via pin 9 (300mA max)

Signal Mapping & Pinout

The adapter provides full JTAG and SWD signal access including:

  • JTAG Signals: TCK, TDI, TDO, TMS, TRST
  • SWD Signals: SWCLK, SWDIO, SWO
  • Control: RESET, VTref, GND
  • Power: 5V target supply (optional)
Needle adapter PCB footprint pattern with positioning guides

PCB Layout Requirements

Pad Specifications: - Contact pads: 0.8mm diameter minimum - Positioning holes: 0.7mm diameter - Solder mask: Must be clear of contact pads - No solder paste on needle contact areas - 0.5mm clearance from other traces

Compatible Debug Probes

Works seamlessly with all SEGGER debug tools including J-Link BASE, PLUS, PRO, ULTRA+, EDU, and Flasher series. The 20-pin standard interface ensures universal compatibility across the SEGGER ecosystem.

Production Programming: Ideal for high-volume manufacturing where repeated connection cycles demand reliable contact without wear on target PCBs.
Engineer Q&A

Questions and Answers

10 questions
  • Is This Adapter Compatible with Third-Party Debug Probes?

    The adapter uses a Tag-Connect-style spring-pin footprint (SEGGER's footprint drawing carries the Tag-Connect patent notice) with SEGGER's own 10-pin signal assignment. SEGGER lists J-Link and Flasher models as suitable products and does not state whether other debug probes are supported. If you are designing for a different probe, see Tag-Connect TC2050 solutions.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • Can I Use This for SWD Debugging Without JTAG Signals?

    Yes. The adapter supports both JTAG and SWD through the same footprint. SWD uses the SWCLK and SWDIO signals mapped to the needle pattern.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • What Happens If I Need to Modify the Cable or Connector?

    For custom modifications or different cable lengths, contact SEGGER directly. For custom pin mapping, use the 50-mil 10-pin patch adapter, which allows custom connections and wiring.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • How Do I Ensure Reliable Contact During Automated Testing?

    SEGGER's design holds the adapter in place with latching legs that clip into holes in the PCB, with finger access to the leg tabs, rather than relying on applied pressure. Follow SEGGER's footprint drawing for the leg latch holes and contact pads, and keep solder paste off the contact pads.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • Does the Adapter Work with All SEGGER Debug Software?

    Yes. As a passive adapter it is transparent to debug software, so SEGGER tools, including J-Link Commander and the Ozone debugger, and third-party IDEs should work without modification.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • What's the Difference Between This and the 6-Pin Needle Adapter?

    The 10-pin version provides full JTAG (TDI, TDO, TCK, TMS) plus optional target power. The 6-pin variant supports SWD debugging only. Choose 10-pin for maximum compatibility.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • Can I Power My Target Board Through This Adapter?

    Yes, the 5V-Supply needle (pin 5) provides 5V at up to 300mA from a J-Link for target power, so you don't need a separate power supply during programming and debugging.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • How Does the Positioning System Prevent Incorrect Connections?

    Three precision-positioned locating pins mechanically key the adapter to your PCB footprint. It physically cannot connect incorrectly, which prevents damage from reverse or offset connections.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • What PCB Layout Rules Must I Follow for the Needle Footprint?

    Follow these rules:

    • Contact pads: 0.79mm (0.031in) diameter
    • Alignment pin holes: 0.99mm (0.039in) diameter, non-plated
    • Leg latch holes: 2.37mm (0.0935in) diameter, non-plated
    • Keep 0.5mm clearance from other traces
    • Never apply solder paste to contact areas
    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026
  • How Many Programming Cycles Can I Expect From the Spring Pins?

    SEGGER does not publish a connection-cycle rating for the spring pins, so we cannot quote one. SEGGER describes them as high-reliability spring pins.

    Answered by John LeggUpdated 12 Oct 2026

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