A connector mainly consists of four parts: Housing (insulator), Contact (contact element), Shell, and accessories. These components work together to ensure the connector maintains its excellent performance in various environments.
1. Housing (Insulator)
The housing, often called the base or mounting plate, is the core component of the connector. It not only determines the overall size and component positioning of the connector but also provides necessary mechanical protection and support for the terminals. Furthermore, it effectively isolates the terminals from the application environment, enhancing their resistance to corrosion. Its material is usually plastic to ensure stable performance in various environments.
2. Contact (Contact Element)
The contact, as the key component for realizing the electrical connection function of the connector, is also called the contact terminal. It is usually composed of a male contact and a female contact paired together; current is transmitted through their mating. Male terminals, primarily made of brass, offer good conductivity but lack elasticity. Male contacts are typically cylindrical (e.g., round pins), square (e.g., square pins), or flat (e.g., inserts). In contrast, female terminals are mostly made of phosphor bronze, offering better elasticity than male terminals, although their conductivity is inferior. Female contacts come in various shapes, including cylindrical (e.g., split, tapered), tuning fork, and box-shaped (e.g., square sockets).
3. Shell
The shell, as the external protective structure of the connector, plays multiple roles. Mechanically, it reinforces the structure, defines the mating frame between the male and female connectors, and ensures precise positioning of the connector to the PCB. Furthermore, the shell absorbs external mechanical forces, providing necessary protection. Electrically, the shell provides crucial EMI shielding and ESD grounding, ensuring connection stability and safety.
4. Accessories
Accessories play an indispensable role in connectors and are mainly divided into two categories: structural accessories and mounting accessories. Structural accessories, such as retaining rings, locating pins, guide pins, connecting rings, cable clamps, sealing rings, and gaskets, are responsible for ensuring the stability and functionality of the connector. Installation accessories, such as screws, nuts, spring rings, and washers, simplify the connector installation process.