At OurPCB, we help you make informed decisions about PCB connectors to ensure your designs are reliable and efficient. PCB connectors are vital for establishing connections between components and enabling seamless communication within electronic devices. In this article, we explain the types of PCB connectors and their key applications to guide your selection process.
Contents
- What Are PCB Connectors?
- Why Are PCB Connectors Important?
- What are the types of PCB connectors?
- Types of PCB Connectors by Application
- 1. PCB Connectors
- 2. Audio and Video Connectors
- 3. Data Connectors
- 4. Power Connectors
- 5. Fiber Optic Connectors
- 6. RF Connectors
- 7. Industrial Connectors
- 8. Automotive Connectors
- PCB Connector Types by Connection Method
- PCB Connector Types by Connection Object
- PCB Connector Types by Design and Application
- Prototyping and Testing Connectors
- RF Connectors and Edge/Card Connectors
- How To Choose the Right PCB Connector
What Are PCB Connectors?
PCB connectors are components that establish electrical connections between different sections of a PCB or between different devices. PCB connectors are used to connect various components such as microprocessors, sensors, power supplies, and more. These connectors ensure that signals and power can be transferred seamlessly across the PCB, allowing the device to function as intended.
Why Are PCB Connectors Important?
The importance of PCB connectors lies in their ability to ensure stable, reliable connections within electronic devices. A poor connection can lead to signal loss, power inefficiency, and ultimately, device failure. By selecting the appropriate connector type, you can optimize the performance, durability, and functionality of your electronic design.
What are the types of PCB connectors?
What are the types of PCB connectors? PCB connectors come in various forms to suit different applications. Pin header connectors are male connectors used with female socket connectors, while box headers provide secure connections for ribbon cables. USB connectors (types A, B, or C) are used for data ports, and RJ45 connectors are for network connections like Ethernet. Terminal blocks secure wires, and BGA connectors mount devices directly onto the PCB. FFC connectors are designed for flat flexible cables, edge connectors link to another PCB, and D-subminiature connectors are used for data and electrical connections.
Types of PCB Connectors by Application
1. PCB Connectors
PCB connectors are crucial for connecting external electronic components or boards to a PCB. They include:
- Board-to-Board Connectors
- Wire-to-Board Connectors
- Edge Connectors
2. Audio and Video Connectors
These connectors link components like cameras, speakers, and microphones to a PCB. Common examples include:
- Aux (3.5mm) Jacks
- HDMI
- RCA Connectors
3. Data Connectors
Data connectors transmit data to and from the PCB. Examples include:
- USB Connectors
- Serial Ports
- Ethernet Connectors
4. Power Connectors
Power connectors provide the necessary electrical connection to power sources for circuit board components.
5. Fiber Optic Connectors
Fiber optic connectors handle high-speed data transmission using light pulses over long distances. Common types include:
- LC Connectors
- ST Connectors
- SC Connectors
6. RF Connectors
RF connectors manage high-frequency signal transmission to and from a transmission cable or antenna. Examples include:
- SMA
- TNC
- BNC Connectors
7. Industrial Connectors
These connectors, such as M8, M12, terminal blocks, and circular connectors, are designed for industrial applications to connect electronic devices and systems.
8. Automotive Connectors
Automotive connectors encompass a variety of joints, including those for audio, sensor, and power connections in vehicles.
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PCB Connector Types by Connection Method
| Connector Type | Description | Key Features |
| Screw-in PCB Connector | Has pins that plug into the PCB with screw terminals for wire connections. | Conductor’s gauge, pin count, power rating, screw terminal spacing. |
| Plug-in PCB Connector | Includes female headers and male sockets that connect by plugging into each other. | Easy to use, minimal effort required for connection. |
| Spring PCB Connector | Uses spring tension to push electrical contacts together, forming a reliable connection. | Utilizes stored potential energy for secure contact. |
| IDC Connector | Insulation Displacement Connector that slices wire insulation to create an electrical connection. | Eliminates the need for wire stripping. |
PCB Connector Types by Connection Object
| Connector Type | Description | Key Features |
| Wire-to-Board Connector | Provides an electrical link between the PCB and a wire, often used when the board and device are far apart. | Suitable for distant connections, facilitates easy linking. |
| Board-to-Board Connector | Connects two PCBs without the need for a wire, typically used for close proximity connections. | Permanent "fit and forget" connection, pins and receptacles. |
PCB Connector Types by Design and Application
| Connector Type | Description | Key Features |
| Male PCB Connectors / Pin Headers | Rows of pins with various spacing, used to create connections between components. | Spacing options: 0.1, 0.2, 0.197 inches. |
| Female PCB Connectors | Also known as socket or header receptacles, tightly accommodate male connectors. | Secure signal passage for power or data. |
| Backplane Connectors | Specialized connectors that increase data rates and reduce signal rise, supporting connection between PCBs. | Supports daughterboards, enables system integration. |
| USB PCB Connectors | Widely used connectors with four contact points: power, ground, and data transmission. | Types: USB-A, USB-B, USB-Micro, USB-C; versatile and widely used. |
| RCA Connectors | Legacy connectors used for transmitting stereo audio, composite and component videos, and S/PDIF audio. | Becoming less common, robust and durable. |
| Audio Connectors | Connectors in various sizes, used in audio equipment. | Types: ¼” (6.35mm), ⅛” (3.5mm), 2.5mm. |
| PCB Power Connectors | Connectors designed to transmit power to electrical devices. | Power-only transmission, available in multiple varieties. |
| Barrel Connectors | Versatile power connectors, often found in AC/DC converter adapters. | Identified by sleeve and pin size, accommodates various power ratings. |
| Molex Connectors | High-current connectors used primarily in computers for powering internal drives. | Bulky, each pin can carry up to 11 amps. |
| IEC Connectors | Used for transmitting AC power, typically found in older electronics. | No AC/DC converter needed, internal device handling. |
| JST Connectors | Compact, reliable connectors ideal for near-permanent applications. | Difficult to dismantle once connected, reliable for long-term use. |
| Pin Header Connectors | Connectors that transmit video, power, and other signals, typically used in desktop computers. | Available in single or double row configurations. |
Prototyping and Testing Connectors
| Connector Type | Description | Key Features |
| Screw Terminals | Involves winding stripped wires under a screw, providing a temporary connection. | Held by metal plate or screws, simple setup. |
| Banana Connectors | Used in electronic testing equipment for single power connections. | Common in voltmeters and multimeters. |
| Alligator Clips | Temporary connectors used in test circuits, ideal for experimentation. | Designed for easy attachment and detachment. |
| IC Clips | Provide rigid connections, suitable for attaching to tools or directly to IC pins. | Prevents contact with neighboring pins in integrated circuits. |
| SMA Connectors | Screw-type coupling connectors, suitable for high-frequency applications up to 18 GHz. | Uniform contact reduces reflection, secure coupling. |
RF Connectors and Edge/Card Connectors
| Connector Type | Description | Key Features |
| RF Connector Conventions | PCB connectors that operate at radio frequencies, commonly used in older TV antennas. | Ensures clear signal transmission, designed for RF use. |
| RP SMA Connectors | Reversed polarized SMA connectors, commonly paired with a female-type antenna. | Allows safe use of electronics without damage. |
| PCB Edge Connector/Card Edge Connector | Connects printed circuit boards to expansion slots, commonly used for memory modules and GPUs. | Reliable connection method for data transfer. |
| RJ Connectors | Also known as Registered Jacks, used in telecommunications for power and data transmission. | Combines power and data transmission in a single cable. |
| D-Sub Connectors | Classic connectors available in various sizes, used for transferring power and data between devices. | Known for durability and wide application in computers. |
| PCB Terminal Block Connectors | Provides an easy way to connect parts temporarily, commonly used in industrial applications. | Easy assembly and disassembly, secure wiring. |
| Post Connectors | Used in audio applications and testing equipment, easy to connect and remove. | Typically fastened using clamps and screws. |
| Plug and Sockets | Common connectors featuring male and female parts, used for data transmission and power supplies. | Versatile use in various connection scenarios. |
How To Choose the Right PCB Connector
You have to consider the critical defining factors, such as the number of pins, connector size, current and voltage rating, installation environment, and mating force, to pick the most suitable circuit board connector. Check the specific electronic component you want to connect to on the board, as well.
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