Types of PCB Connector Types
There are numerous different PCB connector types each designed for a specific use. Choosing the right one for your project is important to ensure that it meets all of your needs and delivers the performance you need.
Depending on the final application, you may need to consider things like size, weight, power, and other design properties. It’s also important to consider the environment where your system will be used and the sensitivity of your devices.
RP-SMA
RP-SMA connector types are one of the most commonly used types of pcb connectors. They are used for a variety of applications including cellular networking, WiFi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee. These connectors are also essential for testing and measurement equipment.
They are typically used with coax cable and are a type of screw-type connector. They are used for a wide range of frequencies, including DC and up to 18GHz. They are available in both male and female versions, and can be terminated with either through-hole soldering or through-hole press-fit techniques.
The SMA series of coaxial connectors was developed in 1960. They are known for their screwable coupling mechanism and their ability to handle high-frequency signals.
Originally, they were only used for antenna connections, but now they are commonly used in PCBs. The SMA series includes both male and female connectors, which can be mounted on a printed circuit board using both through-hole soldering and through-hole press-fit techniques.
SMA connectors are based on the basic principle of a circular body and a center pin, which is surrounded by an outer-threaded barrel. In addition, they have a dielectric to protect the inner conductor from electromagnetic influences.
Another variation of SMA is the RP-SMA connector, which uses a reversed polarity pin and sleeve. The reverse polarity makes this connector more suitable for consumer WiFi products and hardware that combine two technologies like Cellular or GNSS and Wi-Fi.
These RP-SMA connectors are typically smaller than their standard counterparts. They are often found in 5.8GHz WiFi antennas, but they may also be used for other purposes.
To identify a RP-SMA, look for inside 1/4’’-36 threads and a 5/16’’ hex nut. This will indicate that the connector is a male.
RP-SMA connectors can pcb connector types be confusing because they look almost exactly the same as their standard counterparts. The only difference is the polarity.
As with any connector, you should carefully examine the item you are purchasing to ensure that it is what you think it is. If you are unsure, it is best to consult an expert before making a purchase.
Edge Connectors
Printed circuit board (PCB) connectors are a vital part of any computer system, and they are available in many different forms. There are pin headers, sockets, and other types of headers, all designed to meet a specific application’s needs.
Card edge connectors are one of the most common pcb connector types, and they are commonly used in personal computers for connecting expansion cards and computer memory to the system bus. The edge of a card often acts as the connector, and it is attached to the PCB by crimping or wire wrapping the contacts.
There are several card edge connector types, including straight and right angle edge connectors, as well as straddle-surface and surface-mounted connectors. Most are keyed to ensure the correct polarity, and may contain bumps or notches both for polarity and to prevent improper insertion of the mating card.
When compared to other pcb connector types, Edge Connectors are generally less expensive than their counterparts, and they tend to be more robust and durable. They are also a good choice for high-performance systems, as they allow more currents to travel through the traces.
They are available in various heights and package styles, and their design depends on the applications that they are intended for. They also need to be able to handle the current that will flow through them.
The number of contacts and the pitch are two other important aspects to consider. A good contact design can increase the reliability and performance of an edge connector, while a bad one can cause damage to the contact or the board.
Another consideration is the material that the contact is made of. Some contact materials are better for high-cycle applications, while others are more resistant to bending and oxidation.
The contact material also helps to improve spring properties, which increases the life of the contact and minimizes the risk of catching the mating edge card. In addition, a chamfered edge can reduce the chances that the mating card will damage the contact. Likewise, guide rails can be installed on the edge to ensure that the mating card is aligned properly.
RJ-45
RJ-45 connectors are a type of Ethernet data port commonly found on network cards, switches and routers. This type of port uses an 8-pin connection that resembles the RJ-11 or 6-pin plugs used in telephone lines, but they are completely different.
RJ45 connectors are an excellent choice for a wide range of applications due to their cost-effectiveness, electromagnetic interference shielding, solderless wire connection, and customizable networking cables. They are also available in a variety of mounting options, including surface mount and panel mount.
Another reason to consider using an RJ-45 connector is the ability to support Power over Ethernet (PoE). These plugs have a spare pair of wires that can be used to carry current for devices that don’t require separate electrical cables.
When choosing an RJ-45 connector, it is important to know how it is connected and what pinout standards it complies with. For instance, the TIA/EIA-568 standards specify how the individual 8 wires in an RJ-45 plug are assigned. There are two standards that are most commonly used: T568A and T568B.
This pinout standard determines how the eight color-coded wires within an RJ-45 connector are inserted into their specific pinout locations for proper functioning of an Ethernet network. Both standards offer backward compatibility for older wiring, but T568B delivers better signal isolation and noise protection.
In addition, both standards use a color coded designation to indicate the twisted pair that each wire connects to. This allows users to easily identify the specific wires when they’re connecting devices to networks, but it is also useful in determining which wire pairs are being used for which device.
The key to understanding these two standards is to remember that each twisted pair contains eight wires, so you need to make sure the wires are correctly inserted into their specified positions. This is an important consideration when designing a PCB board, especially one that will interface with an Ethernet network.
Another important thing to understand is how the plugs are mounted in use, either on a board or in the field. The best option is to choose a connector that can be mounted in either a panel mount or free-hanging position. This will provide the most stability to the connection. However, it is still important to make sure the cable is properly crimped onto the connector to prevent strain on the contacts and other mechanical issues.
USB
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a standardized connection between peripheral devices and computers. It sets up details for cables and connectors, conventions for association, communication and control supply, and speeds of data transfer.
It is important to understand that there are more than one type of USB connector and they differ by shape and design. This can make it difficult to know what cable or port to connect to what device, especially if you’re not familiar with the standard.
The most recognizable USB connector is the rectangular one on one end of most of the cables you see on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or game console. It’s called a “Type A” connector, and it has been around since the ’90s.
You will find this pcb connector types connector on most computers, tablets, and smart phones, and on many TVs, cars, media players, and other appliances. It’s also used to connect USB-based accessories, like USB memory sticks or other external storage devices.
Another recognizable USB connector is the square-shaped one on the other end of most USB cables. It’s called a “Type B” connector, and it has been around for some time as well.
It’s a smaller version of Type A and is commonly used in smaller devices, like game controllers and mobile phones, to conserve space. It’s available in a variety of shapes, including four-pin and five-pin.
This connector is mainly used in older USB ports that don’t support modern technology, but it can be found on some newer devices as well. It’s usually found on USB 1.1 or 2.0 devices, and it has the same functionality as Type A.
Micro USB is a much smaller version of Type A and B, and it’s mainly used in portable devices to conserve space. It’s available in both four-pin and five-pin versions, and it comes at both USB 1.1 and 2.0 speeds.
These connectors are mainly used for connecting smaller devices, like digital cameras and handheld games. They’re also available in a variety of different shapes and sizes, and they can be used with either a male or female plug.