Connectors are critical components in electronic equipment. Its function is to provide electrical and mechanical connections. Choosing the correct connector is critical, and understanding its basic properties can help you make an informed decision.
Contact resistance is one of the core indicators of connector performance. Contact resistance directly affects electrical transmission efficiency. Generally speaking, low contact resistance values indicate better electrical conductivity. Common contact resistance ranges from 1 milliohm to 10 milliohms. For example, a standard USB connector contact resistance is about 2 milliohms, while high-end data transfer connectors may be as low as 0.5 milliohms.
Current rating is another key attribute. It represents the amount of current that a connector can safely carry under normal operating conditions. Overloading can cause the connector to overheat or become damaged. The current ratings of different connectors vary significantly. The rated current of standard DC power connectors is generally 5A, while the rated current of industrial-grade connectors can reach more than 50A.
The operating temperature range determines the range of ambient temperatures in which the connector can operate properly. The temperature range affects the material selection and design of the connector. Common connector operating temperature ranges are -20°C to +70°C. High or low temperature applications require specially designed connectors that may have an extended operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C.
Mechanical life describes the durability of the connector in physical connection and disconnection operations. The length of mechanical life depends on the design and materials of the connector. The general mechanical life of the connector is 500 plugging and unplugging times, while high-reliability connectors such as those in aerospace applications may reach more than 1,000 times.
Insertion and extraction force is the force required for the connector to connect and disconnect. Appropriate insertion and extraction force can ensure connection stability while avoiding wear or damage to the connector. The insertion and extraction force of standard connectors is between 5N and 15N, and the insertion and extraction force of high-density connectors may reach 20N or more.
Shielding function is essential to reduce electromagnetic interference. Effective shielding can prevent signal interference and ensure the stability of data transmission. Common shielding methods include metal shell and grounding. Standard connectors may have a simple shielding design, while high-frequency signal connectors require complex shielding structures.
Understanding these basic properties of connectors will help you choose the right product. Each property affects the performance and application range of the connector. The selection should be based on comprehensive considerations based on actual application requirements.
