PCB Connector Types: Everything You Need to Know

PCB connectors are essential parts of printed circuit boards found in most modern devices. They connect components, enabling power, and signals.

What are PCB Connectors?

PCB connectors are essential parts of printed circuit boards found in most modern devices. They connect components, enabling power, signals, or data to flow. These connectors are usually green and have grooves, lines, and connections. They come in single or double-sided designs and often have multiple layers for better performance.

Trace width is an important part of PCB design. It determines how much current can pass through the board. Using a trace width calculator ensures that the board can handle the right amount of current.

Types of PCB Connectors

PCB connectors come in many forms to match the needs of different devices. Here are the most common types:

1. Terminal Block Connectors

These connectors have a housing and wires that can be easily removed. They are great for temporary connections and are easy to replace.

2. Post Connectors

Post connectors use screws and clamps to secure connections. They are often used in audio systems and test equipment.

3. Plug and socket connectors

These connectors are very common. They have male and female parts that fit together in one direction. They are used to power devices and transfer data.

4. Card edge connectors

Card edge connectors connect expansion slots to the PCB, allowing them to work together.

5. Backplane connectors

Backplane connectors work like a motherboard, connecting multiple PCBs.

6. Board-to-board connectors

These connectors connect directly to two PCBs using pins and receptacles.

Specialized PCB Connectors

Magnificette offers high-quality PCB connectors for specialized needs:

• JST Connectors: Perfect for permanent connections that rarely need to be removed.
• RF Connectors: Used in radios and older TV systems.
• Pin Header Connectors: Found in desktops to transfer power and video.

USB connectors

USB connectors are used in many devices today. They have at least four contact points for power and data transfer:

• USB-A: Standard connectors on computers and accessories.
• USB-B: Found in older devices like music players.
• USB-Micro: Common in phones, tablets, and compact gadgets.
• USB-C: The latest type that handles power, data, and video in a single connection.

Audio Connectors

Audio connectors are still used for headphones and sound systems, although Bluetooth is now more common:

6.35mm (¼”): Used in musical instruments and amplifiers.

3.5mm (1/8”): Common for headphones and multimedia devices.

2.5mm: Rare, used for both microphones and headphones in one plug.

Power Connectors

These connectors are used to deliver power:

• Barrel Connectors: Durable and easy to use for different power levels.
• Molex Connectors: Found in older computers, handle high currents.
• IEC Connectors: Used for direct AC power in desktops and older electronics.

Prototyping and Testing Connectors

These connectors are ideal for temporary setups:

• Banana Connectors: Used in test equipment such as multimeters.
• Alligator Clips: Great for quick and temporary connections.
• IC Clips: Connect to specific pins for detailed testing.

Conclusion

PCB connectors are critical to modern electronics, ensuring smooth power and data transfer. Magnificette offers reliable PCB connectors for a variety of needs, supporting reliable performance in electronic components. From test setups to permanent connections, these connectors are essential for building advanced electronic devices.