When reading about cool projects and products, it’s common to see wiring plugs labelled “JST connector.” This looks fine until we start getting hands-on and begin hacking things together.

Headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, JST works with companies such as Whirlpool, Electrolux, Ford, Tesla, Lucid Motors, Stellanis, General Motors and Bose. It makes components for cable assemblies, airbag ...