What is a Connector？

What is a connector?

Connectors are electronic components that connect the flow of electricity and electrical signals.

Connectors support various fields in modern society. Next, we will introduce the functional characteristics of connectors and the technology and production process that support them.

Fields of use of connectors

Connectors are not only used in cars, smartphones, computers and other items that are closely related to our lives, but also in all electronic-related terminal devices. Because connectors need to cope with various design styles and uses, there are many types of connectors. What kind of connection effect will be produced by using connectors? Let's take a computer as an example.

First, there is the memory slot. It is a slot installed on the PCB board inside the computer case and used to connect to the memory card.

Secondly, there is a connector for the PCB board inside the computer. Electronic circuits are composed of multiple substrates according to different functions. Connectors are needed to connect these substrates. In addition, connectors are also needed to connect the LCD screen and keyboard to the PCB board.

Finally, there is the interface connector. This is a connector used to connect the computer host and printers, mobile devices, TVs and other external devices.

In addition, there are card holder connectors for connecting various cards.

Advantages and necessity of connectors

So, why do we need to use connectors?

For example, when connecting the internal PCB board of the device, although the circuit can be directly connected, it will take a long time to operate. And the removal and other work during repairs are more time-consuming. However, by connecting with connectors, it is easy and quick to "connect" and "disconnect". Therefore, mass production, division of labor production, repair and maintenance work can be easily realized. The interface between peripheral machinery and the network is naturally the same. With the evolution of various devices, the convenience of "connecting" and "disconnecting" of connectors is indispensable.

Connector structure accessories

So, what is the structure of the connector?

The connector is composed of a pair of plugs and sockets to perform its functions. The plug and socket are composed of terminals that carry electricity, insulators made of plastic to maintain the insulation function between the terminals, and shell parts that protect it.

The most critical terminal in the connector component is made of copper alloy material with high conductivity. One side is a plug terminal without elasticity, and the other side is a socket terminal processed with an elastic structure, which can make the plug and the socket tightly combined. The jack is contacted with the plug, and the elastic structure of the connector makes it tightly combined, completing the connection or transmitting power and signals.

Technical factors supporting connectors

Connectors have the mission of keeping the power and electrical signals of all electronically connected machines connected smoothly in any environment. In order to improve its reliability, we introduce several technical factors that can support connectors.

1. Contact reliability technology

In order to make power and electrical signals "uninterrupted", "unchanged" and "undecayed", contact reliability technology is particularly important. In order for the terminal to contact the electrical with stable performance, the terminal spring must be a metal structure with elasticity. Even if the connector is plugged in and out many times, the socket terminal will return to its original position due to its elastic function. If the contact force is unstable, it will not be able to engage normally. Using operability and spring characteristics to improve the contact reliability of the terminal is the most basic and important technical factor.

2. Simulation evaluation technology

Next, let's take a look at simulation evaluation technology. Connectors are required to have high-speed and non-interrupted waveforms, and to avoid electromagnetic noise that may cause machine malfunctions. For this reason, when designing connectors, simulation evaluation technology such as structural design is also a very important technical factor.

3. Environmentally resistant design technology

In addition, connectors used in outdoor facilities such as automobiles are often affected by vibration and impact, temperature, humidity, wind and rain. Moreover, environmentally resistant design technology that can withstand exhaust gas and dust and always maintain stable contact is also an important technical factor. Our company evaluates contact reliability by implementing various evaluation tests.

Manufacturing technology that supports the production of connectors