Soldering the GPIO headers

In this book, we will discuss the different aspects of Python programming using the Raspberry Pi's GPIO pins. The Raspberry Pi Zero ships without the GPIO header pins. Let's go ahead and solder the GPIO pins. We have also uploaded a video tutorials to this book's website that demonstrates soldering the headers onto the Raspberry Pi Zero.

As mentioned before, the Raspberry Pi's GPIO section consists of 40 pins. This is arranged in two rows of 20 pins each. We will need either two sets of 20-pin male headers or a 20-pin double-row male header. These are available from vendors such as Digikey and Mouser. The headers for the Raspberry Pi are also sold as a kit by vendors like the Pi Hut (https://thepihut.com/collections/raspberry-pi-zero/products/raspberry-pi-zero-essential-kit).

2x20 headers for the Raspberry Pi Zero

In order to solder the headers onto the Raspberry Pi Zero, arrange the headers on a breadboard, as shown in the following figure:

Arranging the headers to solder onto the Raspberry Pi

Perform the following steps:

  1. Arrange the Raspberry Pi on top of the headers upside down.
  2. Gently hold the Raspberry Pi (to make sure that the headers are positioned correctly while soldering) and solder the headers onto the Raspberry Pi.
  1. Inspect the board to ensure that the headers are soldered properly and carefully remove the Raspberry Pi Zero off the breadboard.
Headers soldered onto the Raspberry Pi

We are all set to make use of the GPIO pins in this book! Let's move on to the next section.

Soldering the headers onto the Raspberry Pi using a breadboard might damage the breadboard if the right temperature setting isn't used. The metal contacts of the breadboard might permanently expand resulting in permanent damage. Training in basic soldering techniques is crucial, and there are plenty of tutorials on this topic.