Types of Electrical Connectors
When you’re working on electrical projects, there’s a wide variety of connector types you can use to create the right connections for your circuit. The type of connection you choose depends on the function you need from your connectors, as well as the surrounding environment. For example, your connectors may need to be water resistant if they’re going to be exposed to harsh weather conditions.
One of the main types of electrical connectors is the wire-to-board connector, which connects a series of pins to a printed circuit board (PCB). There are many different types of wire-to-board connectors, but they all have the same function: to transport power and signals from a wire to a PCB. These are the earliest of all electrical connectors, and they’re still used in commercial electronic equipment, household appliances, and other general industrial applications that require auxiliary connections.
Another type of electrical connector is the board-to-board connector, which connects two PCBs together. This type of electrical connector has a high transmission capacity and is commonly used in IT, financial manufacturing, industrial automation, and office equipment. The defining characteristic of this type of electrical connector is that it has eight conductors in the plug and socket, which allows for maximum current and signal transmission.
This electrical connector type is often used in large systems and has a number of advantages, such as its high transmission capacity, its low resistance to environmental factors, and its ease of installation. These characteristics make it ideal for use in industrial and IT equipment, as well as in consumer electronics, automotive, communications, and medical applications.
There are a number of different kinds of electrical wire connectors, including the ring terminal, fork, spade, and butthead connectors. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, but all offer a reliable, solid connection. Some are even hermetically sealed and can withstand harsh environments.
Most electrical connectors are designed with a female component called a jack, or socket. The male half of the connector is known as a plug, and it has recessed holes that can accept a metal wire or cable. The plug’s metal contact spring fits into the jack’s socket hole, and it is clamped down to create a secure electrical connection.
The electrical connector types you select will depend on the type of connection you need, the environment you’re working in, and your budget. You should also be sure to consider the mechanical properties of your connectors, such as their ability to withstand crimping, soldering, and other types of termination.
Some electrical connectors are made to reduce the amount of force that’s needed when mating them. This is especially important when dealing with high-current and high-voltage applications. Zero insertion force (ZIF) connectors, for example, feature a lever that brings the male and female mating pins into contact when the connectors are mated. This helps to reduce the insertion force and makes them ideal for use in harsh environments. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, then there are also plastic and steel inserts that can be used to hold the pins in place.