PCB Connector Types, Functions, and Selection Tips

A PCB (printed circuit board) connector is an important part. It carries power or signals in circuits and devices. This part links several PCBs or pieces on one PCB. It builds strong, easy paths for electricity. These paths help gadgets work smoothly.

A PCB connector has two big parts: the housing and the contacts. The housing is the outside shell. It’s usually plastic or metal. It holds up and guards the inner pieces. Contacts can be pins, sockets, or edge connectors, depending on the connector’s type and job. They’re made of copper or other stuff that moves electricity well. These contacts join PCB parts or boards.

PCB Connector Types: By Connection Method

Board-to-Wire Connectors

Board-to-wire connectors hook a PCB to outside things, like sensors or switches, with wires. For example, crimp connectors fasten a metal bit to the wire. Then, it goes into a housing. Insulation displacement connectors (IDC) join wires without peeling off their cover. This makes connecting simple.

Wire-to-Wire Connectors

Wire-to-wire connectors, also called cable-to-cable connectors, tie two cable groups together. They have ends you can pull apart and put back. This is useful for fixing or putting things together.

Board-to-Board Connectors

Board-to-board connectors join two or more PCBs without wires. They let boards stack up or sit near each other. You can place them side by side with mezzanine connectors. Or, you can set them at right angles with orthogonal connectors. It depends on the design.

PCB Connector Types: By Function

Power Connectors

Power connectors bring power from a source to a PCB. They’re safe and work well. They use plug-and-socket setups that fit the device’s power needs, like voltage and current.

Card Edge Connectors

Card edge connectors fit on a circuit board’s edge. They have rows of contacts that match up with parts on the PCB. These contacts are coated with gold. Gold helps electricity flow better and stops rust. This makes them last a long time.

Audio/Video Connectors

Audio/video connectors carry sound and video signals between devices. They work for old (analog) and new (digital) connections. Each type has its own design.

Modular/Ethernet Connectors

Modular/Ethernet connectors send data between network devices fast and well. The RJ-45 connector is a popular one. It’s used for Ethernet in local networks (LANs).

Memory Connectors

Memory connectors link memory cards or modules to devices. They help store and get data. They come in types like SD, microSD, CompactFlash, SIM, and others.

USB Connectors

USB connectors are input/output (I/O) connectors. They move data and power in modern devices. They include types like USB-A and USB-C.

Automotive Electronics Connectors

Automotive connectors are made strong for cars. They handle bumps, hot or cold weather, and water. They follow tough USCAR-20 standards from SAE International to work great.

FFC/FPC Connectors

FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) and FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) connectors are thin. They support bendy, tight connections between circuits.

Circular Connectors

Circular connectors, also called aviation plugs, are tough for big jobs, like in aerospace or factories. They’re strong and reliable.

Types of PCB Connector Mounting

Through-Hole Mounting

In through-hole mounting, connector leads go into holes drilled in the PCB. They get soldered to pads on the other side. This makes a solid connection, good for hard jobs.

Surface Mount Technology (SMT)

Surface mount technology (SMT) solders connectors onto the PCB’s surface. No holes are needed. This lets you use smaller connectors and pack parts closer. It’s great for tiny gadgets.

How to Select a PCB Connector?

Electrical Specifications

Choose connectors with power ratings that meet or top your device’s needs. This keeps them safe and cool. It stops them from breaking or getting too hot.

Connection Reliability

For a good connection, pick connectors with strong contacts. They need to control impedance and crosstalk. This keeps signals clear and steady.

Mating Cycles

Mating cycles show how many times you can plug and unplug a connector before it wears out. Check this to match your device’s use.

PCB Layout and Design

The connector’s size has to fit the board and device case. Its shape should make it easy to plug in or pull out from other parts.

Environmental Resistance

Connectors in tough spots, like hot or cold places, must be sturdy. Use metals that don’t rust to keep them working well.

Industry Compliance and Certifications

Make sure connectors follow industry rules. Standards like ISO9001 keep things safe. RoHS cuts down on harmful stuff for a greener planet.

Advancements in PCB Connectors

Connector Miniaturization

Gadgets like phones, wearables, and medical tools are getting smaller. So, connectors need to be tiny too. Small connectors save space but still do their job well.

High-Density Design

High-density connectors pack many contacts into a small spot. They save room and still work great.

Material & Manufacturing Techniques

Makers use tough plastics like LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer) and PEEK (Polyether ether ketone). These help with insulation in hard conditions.

FAQs About PCB Connectors

Q1. How are PCB connectors arranged in electronics?

PCB connectors can line up in different ways based on the design. They can be side by side (Mezzanine). Or, they can be at right angles (Motherboard-to-Daughterboard). They can also be flat (Coplanar/Edge-to-Edge).

Q2. What is PCB connector pitch?

Pitch is the space between pins or contacts. Smaller pitches fit more parts. But they need careful work to line up right.

Q3. What materials are usually used in PCB connectors?

Contacts often use copper alloys. They carry electricity well. Housings use plastics like LCP or nylon. These handle heat nicely.

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