Types of PCB Connectors
Connectors play an important role within printed circuit board systems. They allow the transmission of data, power and signals from equipment to the PCB itself.
There are various pcb connector types that differ by termination method, locking mechanism and other design specifics. The following are the most common:
Wire-to-Board Connectors
Generally found in the heart of your computer, laptop, phone, or MP3 player, these connectors work as receptacles and headers to connect devices to PCBs. They’re among the most versatile connector types that transfer power and signal information to help your device function properly.
Plug and socket connectors feature male and female links that include a set of pins. They’re the most popular PCB connector type used in consumer electronics, transmitting display, power, and data signals to support a wide range of applications.
Also known as pin headers, these PCB connectors are available in a variety of pitches and designs to suit your application’s specific needs. They’re also equipped with polarization and keying features to ensure that they mate with the correct device. They’re also capable of withstanding harsh environments such as vibration, kinetic shock, and environmental ingress of oils, chemicals, and solvents.
Backplane Connectors
Plug-and-socket connectors are one of the most popular types of PCB connectors. They use male and female pins to transmit power, display, and data signals to the board. They’re commonly used in computers, electronic test equipment, and mobile devices. Other common connector types include molex and JST connectors, which are both widely used in automotive and renewable energy systems.
These connectors are designed pcb connector types to mate with pin headers and have rows of sockets on the female side that resemble male pins. They’re available in a range of lengths, and you can also find right-angle versions for tight spaces.
Crimp-style connectors involve piercing a wire’s insulation and inserting it into a housing that mates with a connector on the PCB. They’re often used for ribbon cables and offer a quick, reliable connection method. Other popular connectors include fFC/FPC, stacking, and mezzanine connectors, which establish vertical or parallel connections between two PCBs that are separated at a short distance. These connectors can be either passive or active, depending on the desired performance of the system. They can include bus driving circuitry or chips that buffer signals.
Cable-to-Board Connectors
A PCB connector enables a cable or wire to attach directly to a printed circuit board. This type of connector is often used to connect internal components, such as batteries, displays, and cameras. It also enables an easy way to add or remove features from a device without the need for soldering.
There are a number of cable-to-board PCB connector types to choose from. Each type has a different pitch and size, and each offers a unique set of benefits. For example, some are designed to accommodate a wide range of wire sizes, while others offer improved mechanical and electrical performance.
There are also a variety of mounting options available, including panel mount, free-hanging, and surface mount. Some of these connectors also have locking mechanisms, which ensure a secure connection. Polarization and keying features also help prevent incorrect connection. This is especially important for connectors that require manual insertion. These features include asymmetrical shapes, notches, and tabs that only allow them to mate with the correct orientation. Lastly, some connectors are rated to resist the effects of oils, solvents, and chemicals.
Socket Connectors
There are a number of different connector types used in PCB design. The type that’s right for your project depends on its needs. These factors include the size, weight, and space constraints as well as how frequently the connector will be connected or removed.
The connector’s pitch and size are also important considerations. A minuscule pitch PCB Connector Types Supplier can offer a higher pin count in a smaller area but may make it difficult to handle high voltages or larger currents. Conversely, a large pitch can simplify production and mating but may limit the number of contacts allowed within a single area.
Header connectors are another common connection type. They’re often found in computer hardware and other devices with multiple ports. These connections are generally soldered directly to the PCB. They’re a good choice for external connections that require a quick and secure method of bringing wiring into the device. There are a number of different header types including pin headers, test clips, and screw terminals. IC clips and banana connections are other quick-connect options that are easy to remove, re-connect, and swap out as needed.
RITS Connectors
Board-to-board connectors link two PCBs without the need for a cable or wire. Also known as pin header connectors, these devices offer a “fit and forget” approach that improves manufacturability. They use pins and receptacles to transfer signals and are used for expansion cards in electronics.
Power connectors transfer power to the PCB. They vary in size, shape and power rating. Some are heavy-duty and can withstand higher voltages, while others are light-duty and require lower current ratings.
Signal connectors maintain data integrity, and they also protect against moisture, dust, chemicals and vibration. The plating of the contact and the housing material determine how long the connector can withstand harsh environments. Other factors to consider include the termination method and locking mechanism, which can vary from a snap-on clip to a screw or bayonet lock. Polarization and keying features are helpful for ensuring the connector is inserted in the correct orientation to avoid damage to the contacts. Mating cycle life is another important factor that influences the selection of a connector type. It determines how many times the connector can be mated and unmated before it fails.