A connector (200) provides improved robustness and strength with a header (202) configured to retain and expose a plurality of receptacles (204). The exposed portion of each receptacle provides a surface mount solderable element as part of the overall connector. Another embodiment further provides a lead (208) extending from the exposed portion of the receptacle to provide an additional leaded solderable element to the connector. Thus, the connector can provide both surface mount capability and/or a combination of surface mount and lead mount capability. The exposed portions of the receptacles may be soldered flush to a board (302), thus minimizing z-height of the connector to the board and allowing for a larger sized diameter receptacle.