Modern electronic devices frequently control various interfaces and process different signals, from tiny components like the motherboard and display module in a flashlight to large devices like sensors , drivers , switches, and valves in industrial applications. Safe and reliable signal connections are absolutely essential.
Connectors on the market have evolved to handle a wide variety of devices, resulting in diverse functions and forms. To ensure the most suitable connector for a target application, factors such as cost-effectiveness, reliability, safety, and operability must be considered, requiring engineers to invest considerable thought in material selection. In addition to considering basic electrical characteristics, cost, and form factor, engineers need to understand the following selection elements to improve the efficiency of material selection.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Engineers need to consider whether establishing signal connections will be affected by environmental interference, such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) from motor drives and noise from nearby equipment, which could lead to signal loss or affect signal reliability. In these cases, shielded connectors and more careful wiring can eliminate these concerns.
Foreign material intrusion protection
In the working environment, is there any possibility that the connector may come into contact with dirt, water, oil, chemicals, etc.? Is there any possibility that water condensation may occur due to changes in high and low temperatures?
Engineers can consider whether connectors need a corresponding "intrusion protection" level from the perspective of these foreign substances intrusion.
High Density
Consider selecting connectors that reduce PCB size while increasing I/O count to provide high-density transmission, such as stackable connectors. Alternatively, consider using high-density array connectors.
Fast and error-free connection
Installation work typically requires fast and error-free connections, especially when a large number of connections are involved. Fast and error-free connections are a key consideration for engineers. The faster the installation, the lower the project cost.
However, some connection points are inaccessible areas, or in low light conditions, making it difficult to see the connected structure. Combined with worker finger fatigue, quick connections can actually become a major cause of connection failures. Connectors on the market now offer quick-connect technologies, such as push-pull pluggable connections, which require less time to connect and save more time than traditional threaded connectors.
Mismatched connections
Mismatched connections are another common problem. Mismatch refers to inserting the wrong connector into the wrong socket when using multiple identical connectors in the same location. If space permits, wire coding can be added to distinguish specific cables or terminal block connections. Some connector solutions on the market also provide distinguishable orientations, such as standard orientations for some circular connectors, like A, B, C, D, S, T, X, or Y. Using cable labels or color coding can also reduce mismatched connections.
Summarize
When selecting signal connectors, engineers must consider many parameters to determine the correct connector. In addition to basic electrical parameters, cost, and shape, the following factors need to be considered to improve the efficiency of the selection process.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Foreign material intrusion protection
High Density
Fast and error-free connection
Mismatched connections
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