Connectors

What are Electronic Connectors?

Electronic connectors are devices that join electronic circuits. They are used in assembling, installing, and supplying power to electrical devices.
Connectors are an important component of every electronic equipment used in industrial machinery, consumer electronics, communications, and home and commercial appliances. These devices are often overlooked, but they make every electronic product functional and complete. Most connectors are temporary or removable; some are used as permanent electrical joints.

The two main components of an electrical connector are its contacts and housing, also referred to as its plug or receptacle. The housing holds the terminals and ensures the stability of their connections. It isolates the terminals from other electronic components and prevents short-circuiting. Plugs and receptacles protect the terminals from the elements and weather and are made from insulating materials such as molded plastics or ceramics.

Additional parts may be added to a connector depending on how it will be used. Key connectors can only be inserted in a specific orientation. A lock can be placed on a connector to prevent it from being undone while sealed connectors can be used underwater.

Connector terminals are the pins that provide a continuous path for the electrical current to flow between circuits. They are made from electrically conductive materials such as brass, phosphor bronze, beryllium copper, and high copper alloy.