One very common question that we get here at Digi-Key is “What is the difference between a connector and a connector housing?” In our system, a housing is a connector that does not come with contacts.
Below I have two similar part numbers:
Circular connector PT06SE-10-6S(SR)
Circular connector housing PT06SE-10-6S(SR)LC
As you can see they are the same connector, however the connector comes complete with contacts and is located under our Circular Connector Assemblies category, where the connector housing would require you to order contacts separately and is located under our Circular Connector Housings category on our DigiKey website. In this example the “LC” in the housing part number actually calls out “less contacts”. This will not be called out in all part numbers.
On the bottom of the housings page, you will see a section called Associated Product. Here is where you will find the contacts that belong to your housing. You may also find items such as backshells, strain reliefs, and dummy plugs. If you click on View More you will see a complete list of associated products.
You will also find similar parts listed like this under rectangular connectors and D-Sub connectors as well.