Types of Connectors

Introduction

The durability, mating type, and connection process of a connector depending on the different functions and accessibility of each conductor. In some extreme conditions such as excessive heat, water, cold, vibration, and contamination, these connectors play a significant role in carrying current.

What is a connector?

A connector is an important electromechanical device that is used for creating proper electrical connections within different parts of a circuit. Direct communication can be formed based on the functions of connectors (Ronanki, Kelkar & Williamson, 2019). Transmission of the signal is integrally connected to this. Power distribution is an important part that is required for a properly functioning electronic device.

Figure 1: Connector

Types of connectors

Each connector possesses a jack and a plug. The plus is known as the male end of the connector whereas the jack is the female end of the connector. Based on the individual application, connectors are divided into various parts among which are key connectors, Locked connectors, ESD shielded connectors, keyed, hermetically, water-resistant, oil resistance connectors and EMI filtering connectors are important. Keyed connectors can be joined at a time when these connectors are aligned adequately (Tahir et al. 2018). Electrostatic discharge can be prevented by ESD shield connectors.

Connectors for connector level

• Board-to-Board connectors: A connection between two different PCBs (Printed Circuit Board) is engineered with the help of a board-to-board connector.

• Cable-to-Cable connectors: This type of connector helps in engaging the current connection with a cable between two cables.

• Cable-to-Board connectors: At a certain time, a connection is to be set from a cable to a board. This type of connector is used at that time.

• Chip to package connector: In this connector, the contacts are arranged in such a manner that all these are mechanically and electrically coupled.

• Input and output connector: This connector is used to attach external devices like displays, printers, and keyboards with a cable connection.

Figure 2: Input and output of a connector

Connectors for connector Function

• Terminal block: In a terminal block, a single wire is attached and connected to a circuit. Terminal blocks are also used to connect wires without cutting the wire from the same circuit (Kayonde, 2021). Barrier strips, “PCB (Printed Circuit Board)”, pluggable blocks, and MTC are important examples of terminal blocks.

• Plug and socket: These connectors are useful in controlling circuits. A connection within components and a circuit are developed by using this connector. A socket is used in connecting USB, video connection, and other electrical connections.

Figure 3: Two types of connectors

Ring and spade: In these two connectors, the electric current and connection are engaged with the help of a screw and a threaded post (Casey et al. 2018). In these connectors, the locks are partially closed and that is why it is easy to remove the connection from these two connectors.

• Rack and panel: In creating a connection between an equipment rack and a device rack and panel is used. The standards of these two connectors are high and of the best standard.

• Binding post: In testing the fixtures of wire termination, the binding post acts as a beneficial connector. In audio amplifiers and loudspeakers, binding posts are seen.

• Blade: In this connector, conductive blades are used which are flat. In this connector, single wires are attached. All the blades are attached with connecting wires.

Connectors for level termination

Crimping: This connector helps in making a strong connection between connectors and wires. Crimping is very easy to handle and cost-effective as well.

IDC: Insulated wires are attached with IDC. This connector is mainly used to reduce the potentiality of handling current with the help of blades.

Connection with the help of connectors

Figure 4: Horizontal connection

In a horizontal connection, the connectors play individual roles in flowing current horizontally. The place of wires is situated accordingly in this type of connection.

Figure 5: Vertical connection

In a vertical connection, the connectors perform the task of flowing current vertically. The wired and blades are placed at such an angle so that the connection between cable and board remains unaffected.

Application

• Connectors are used in radio frequency. This helps in preventing changes within the transmission of a radio line’s impedance.

• In the mechanism of laptops and computers, connectors are widely used.

• Eight position conductors are used in CAT5 (Kim, Hong & Han, 2021).

• USB (Universal Serial Bus) is an important connector.

• In modem ports, D-subminiature connectors are used.

• DC connectors are installed for preventing people from getting shocked by the current.

Conclusion

Based on different termination processes, functions, and levels of current flow options, various types of connectors have been developed. A locked connector is used in locking the current at a particular place. A hermetically sealed connector is used underwater for preventing damage to the circuit because of water pressure. In EMI filtering connectors, any kind of electromagnetic interference can be avoided. Damages, caused by water can be avoided by a water-resistant connector. An oil-resistant connector protects current from being damaged by moisture and oil.

FAQs

Q1. What is meant by crimping?

Ans. A device is needed to create connections between wires and connectors and this is known as crimping. In crimping, no such pre-stripping insulation has been used.

Q2. How many types of rack and panels are found?

Ans. There are a total of three types of rack and panel. These are cable to panel, cable to cable, and rack and panel.

Q3. What is the characteristic of an "IDC (Insulation Displacement Connectors)"?

Ans. An electrical insulator is inserted and as a result, the insulation process is cut with the help of blades. Current handling capabilities are lowered with an IDC.

Q4. What is the usage of "MTC (Multiple Terminal Connectors)"?

Ans. This is an important terminal block. The MTC helps in simplifying the wiring system and also helps in saving space.