Understanding Electrical Connectors

Electrical connectors are what make it possible for your industrial equipment to work; they are a source of power for all electrical equipment.  Electrical connectors join components such as wires, boards and chips; they can either serve as a permanent or temporary link between devices. Electrical connectors are used in industries such as the engineering and automation industries.

Electronic Connectors

 

Electrical connectors are composed of two main components: Housing and terminals; the housing holds the terminals together, it stabilises the connection and protects the contacts from environmental hazards. The terminals provide the electrical conductor which makes a connection possible.

Electrical connectors are classified as male or female based on whether the connector plugs in or is plugged in; male connectors plug in while female connectors are plugged in. A female connector receives input from other devices such as plugs while the male connector relies on the input of the female connector; understanding the different connector genders and their functionality will help you use the connector correctly.

Electrical connectors fit into one, or more, of the following categories:

  • Wire-to-board or subassembly-to-subassembly level.
  • Box-to-box or input/output level.
  • IC chip or chip-to-package level.
  • IC package or package-to-board level.
  • PC board-to-board level.

 

Two examples of electrical connectors

Terminal blocks

Included in the composition of this type of connector is an insulator base.  Terminal blocks are a conduit of power for electronic equipment; they are compatible with wires and clips connected by clamping, screwing or soldering.

Anderson Connectors

Anderson connectors are used for transmitting high-capacity DC (direct current) electrical power. They are made of copper alloy and tin; this ensures that the connector is corrosion resistant and allows for easy conductivity.

 

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Electrical connectors are essential for the functionality of many electrical appliances and equipment; they are used extensively on circuits for industrial machinery and backup-electronics.

Switches International specialises in the supply and support of industrial switches and sensor solutions. We offer a wide range of electrical connectors; contact us today and explore our superior products.

About Switches International

Our company has vast experience embedded in it’s dedicated sales and technical staff. Our product lines extend to Proximity sensors, Valve Indication, Pressure sensors/switches, Rotary/Linear encoders, PhotoCell systems, Change-over switches, Speed, Temperature, Flow and Level sensors.

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