For an electrical circuit to be complete, we must have the right components and wires in place. Connectors are the binding factors that ensure that all the components are attached to the circuits. As the electrical industry evolved so needs different types of connectors changed along. In this article, we would go through the various classes available, their uses, and what situations they are likely to be used under.
Connector function
Connectors can be leveraged in multiple scenarios. Classifications have been created based on how they are connected in the circuit:
- Terminal Block – These are used where many wires are connected individually to a single point in the enclosed housing. They are mainly used in PCBs.
- Binding Post – These are bare wires fastened to posts via clamps. They are mainly used for audio and electrical testing devices.
- Plug and socket – This is a very commonly found connector. A female plug with one or more pins connected to a male socket. It is used in HDMI, SCSI, coaxial cables, etc.
- Rack and Panel – They are mainly used in electronic equipment where reliability is a factor. They are used to connect components with detachable electronic parts. You could see them in modems and home stereo systems.
- Blade – They connect individual wires to flat metallic blade-like ends. They are suitable for almost all types of equipment with a point-to-point connection.
Connector Termination
The following connectors are classified based on the way the termination is used. This refers to the connection between the connector and the wire through the use of a clamp. The need for these termination components depends on the use case you want to leverage them for.
- Insulation displacement – They allow for attaching wires without having to strip off the insulating material. They save a lot of time and effort, especially in manufacturing.
- Crimping – It creates a separable connection between the wires and the connectors. They are normally used as termination for blade connectors.
- Soldering – Soldering is melting filler material over wires of joints to create a fused connection. In PCBs, connections are made mainly by soldering.
What are power connectors?
As the name suggests, these are exclusively for providing power to electrical components. Based on the amount of voltage and current that the connectors are required to withstand, many varieties of power connectors are available in the market. Some of the types are as follows:
- Power & M23
- Bayonet IP40 Power
- M25 power
- RD24 power
- Bajonett HEC power
- RD30 power
This is only an initial overview of connectors
We have barely scratched the surface of the classifications that comprise the overall groups of electrical connectors that exist. On a note of conclusion, connectors are a very crucial segment of the electrical industry. Mix and match the wrong types in the wrong environment can prove to be extremely dangerous. Do thorough research, explicitly state your requirements before making a purchase.