PCB Connectors & Wire Housings

Printed circuit board (PCB) connectors are a type of electrical connector, made up of a housing and contacts which join sections of circuits together on PCBs, namely boards where conductive tracks for electronic components are printed.

How Do PCB Connectors Work?

PCB connectors function by providing a secure and reliable connection between different sections of a printed circuit board. They’re composed of a housing that holds conductive contacts. When inserted into a corresponding connector or socket on the PCB, the contacts establish an electrical connection between various components, wires, and even critical safety elements like PCB fuse holders. This circuit board connection allows for the transmission of signals, data, and power between different parts of the circuit, ensuring the proper functioning of electronic devices.

The design of PCB connectors varies depending on the application, but their primary role remains the same: to maintain signal integrity and ensure stable connections in electronic systems.

Types of PCB Connectors

There are a variety of PCB connector and accessories best designed for specific uses. To name some, they include:

• Backplane Connectors: Mostly used to design computer systems due to their versatility and modularity, these are supports structures used to connect different PCBs. Their cards can be interchanged very easily, therefore they are highly used in the telecom industry.
• LVDS Connectors: Also called Low Voltage Differential Signalling connectors, their application mainly involves monitors of all kinds. One of their benefits is that the copper cables allow for high speed of connection despite the low power operation.
• PCB Sockets: Paired with PCB headers, they’re used to guarantee simplified assembly when connecting two printed circuit boards without cabling.
• RITS Connectors: Their acronym stands for Remote Input/Output Terminal System. They’re colour coded to indicate their applications and feature a locking lever which facilitates the mating process without the need for stripping the wires in preparation, which is required by other types of PCB connectors.
• FPC Connectors: Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) connectors are widely used in compact electronic devices where space is limited. They offer flexibility, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining reliable signal transmission.
• IDC Connectors: Known for their durability and reliability in harsh environments. IDC connectors provide a cold-welded, gas-tight connection by piercing through insulated cables to connect with the conductor. They are commonly used in transportation applications such as emergency vehicles, door handles, and lighting systems.

How to Clean PCB Connectors?

Cleaning is an essential part of maintenance for the good functioning of PCB connectors and electronic devices in general. Especially if not used every single day, connectors are likely to accumulate dirt and eventually corrode making their use no longer possible. Carrying out a cleaning routine enables you to avoid power loss and maintaining good contacts. Please note that the right tools are required in order not to damage parts that come in contact with the circuits.

• Isopropyl Alcohol: While Isopropyl Alcohol seems to work best to remove corrosion, its use on connectors requires extra care as it is a flammable chemical compound.
• PCB Edge Eraser: Also known as cleaning scrub block, PCB edge eraser offers a quicker solution. This eraser has a fine abrasive texture, making it more efficient and abrasive than a standard pencil eraser. Its application has to be quite gentle not to damage any parts of the connector when used to remove dirt and rust.
• Brush: Using a brush, such as a PCB Cleaning Brush, can come handy when the terminals are particularly small, and more precision is needed.

Industrial Application of PCB Connectors

PCB connectors are indispensable in various industries due to their exceptional reliability and versatility. These connectors ensure the seamless operation of electronic systems across a wide range of sectors, enabling critical functions in both everyday devices and specialised industrial equipment:

Telecommunication

PCB connectors are integral to telecom equipment, enabling reliable data transmission and maintaining the integrity of communication networks. They’re used in everything from base stations and network switches to mobile devices, ensuring that information flows efficiently across global networks.

Transportation

In transportation systems, PCB connectors are vital for ensuring the smooth functioning of electronic components in vehicles, trains, and other transport infrastructures. They support critical systems such as navigation, signalling, and safety, which are essential for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods.

Automotive

PCB connectors are crucial in automotive electronics, supporting systems such as engine management, infotainment, and safety controls. They ensure that all electronic components within a vehicle communicate effectively, contributing to enhanced vehicle performance, safety, and user experience.

Industrial

These connectors are widely used in industrial automation, providing reliable connections for control systems, machinery, and robotics. They play a key role in optimising production processes, improving efficiency, and ensuring the seamless operation of automated systems in manufacturing environments.

Computer and Peripherals

In computing, PCB connectors facilitate essential connections between motherboards, peripherals, and other components, ensuring efficient data and power transfer. They’re critical in maintaining the performance and reliability of computers, servers, and other digital devices.

Aerospace

PCB connectors in aerospace applications are designed to withstand extreme conditions, providing reliable connections in navigation, communication, and control systems. These connectors must endure high levels of vibration, temperature fluctuations, and other environmental challenges, ensuring the safety and functionality of aerospace technologies.

Power and Energy

In power generation and distribution, PCB connectors are crucial for maintaining connections within systems that manage and distribute electrical energy. They support the stable and efficient operation of power grids, renewable energy installations, and other critical infrastructure, ensuring that electricity is delivered reliably to homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About PCB Connectors

How do you connect components to PCB?

Components are typically connected to a PCB through soldering. The component leads or pins are inserted into holes on the PCB or placed onto surface mount pads, and then soldered to establish a secure electrical connection. Some connectors also use press-fit or screw-down mechanisms to attach components.

What are the advantages of using a PCB?

PCB connectors offer several advantages, including compact design, improved reliability, and reduced wiring complexity. They provide stable and secure connections between components, facilitate automated manufacturing processes, and are cost-effective for mass production.

What are some drawbacks of using PCB?

Some drawbacks of PCBs include their limited ability to be modified or repaired after manufacturing, the potential for signal interference in high-frequency circuits, and the need for precise design and manufacturing processes to ensure reliability.

Delivery Information

RS is dedicated to ensuring your PCB connectors and other connectors like IEC connectors and Mil-spec connectors arrive promptly and securely. To explore our various delivery options and find the best fit for your needs, please visit our Delivery FAQ page. We prioritise timely and dependable shipping to keep your projects on track and running smoothly.