Electrical Connectors

Abstract

Electrical connectors are mechanical devices that connect wires, cables, printed circuit boards, and electronic components to each other and to related equipment. Connector designs include miniature units for microelectronic applications; specialized cable; rack and panel designs for incorporating combinations of a-c, d-c, and radio-frequency conducting contacts; and high current connectors for industrial application and for transmission and distribution of electrical power in overhead and underground networks. Further categorization of connectors can be made according to: application, whether connectors permanently join conductors and components or permit separation and rejoining; the means used to effect connection, whether by fusion (welding, soldering) or by pressure, the values of which can be small or great enough to severely deform metal; the distribution type, whether of power or of low (signal) levels of current; and the conductor size. The term electrical contact describes the junction between two or more current-carrying members that provide electrical continuity at their interfaces. Connector contacts ordinarily remain stationary in active circuits, eg, they are not mated or separated. Components having electrical contacts other than connectors include circuit breakers, switches, relays, and contactors that are designed to interrupt or to establish current flow in active circuits, and slip rings and brushes that transmit current from a stationary to a moving frame of reference.Many connectors for single conductors have an insulating sleeve, and almost all connectors that join two or more conductors have a plastic body, or dielectric, which separates the contact elements (see Insulation, electric). Metal or plastic shells with mechanical aids, such as screws, levers, and other coupling devices to facilitate joining and separation of the contacts, also may surround a connector. The shell may have mounting features for securing the connector to a chassis, supports for the wires and cables, and polarizing keys for prevention of improper mating.