Connectors are a type of component that our electronic engineering technicians often come into contact with; its function is very simple: to build a bridge of communication between blocked or isolated circuits in the circuit, so that the current can flow and the circuit can achieve the predetermined function. Connectors are indispensable components in electronic devices. If you observe along the path where the current flows, you will always find one or more connectors. The form and structure of connectors are ever-changing. There are various forms of connectors depending on the application object, frequency, power, application environment, etc. For example, the connectors used for lighting on the court, the connectors for hard drives, and the connectors for igniting rockets are very different. But no matter what kind of connector, it is necessary to ensure that the current flows smoothly, continuously and reliably.

Why do we need connectors?

Imagine what would happen if there were no connectors? At this time, the circuits had to be permanently connected with a continuous conductor. For example, if an electronic device was to be connected to a power source, the two ends of the connecting wire had to be fixed to the electronic device and the power source by some method (such as welding). This brought many inconveniences both in production and use. Connectors are now widely used. So, when did connectors become so widely used? It is said that the demand for connectors increased during the Second World War in the 1940s. Before that, wires were twisted together and welded (wrapped around metal to increase its fixing force) or directly fixed with screws. However, in the workplace where every second counts, connectors that can achieve batch connection have become indispensable in order to assemble and produce equipment and machines more efficiently, and the demand has increased all of a sudden. Imagine what would happen if there were no connectors? At this time, the circuits had to be permanently connected with a continuous conductor. For example, if an electronic device was to be connected to a power source, the two ends of the connecting wire had to be fixed to the electronic device and the power source by some method (such as welding). This brought many inconveniences both in production and use.

＜Early electrical connections＞

1, 1 connection

＜1940s＞
Fast batch connection locally

The role of connectors

Connectors have a variety of uses, but their common function is to "properly transmit power." If power cannot be transmitted, voltage drops, or signal arrangement changes, then the connector is meaningless. In addition, since electricity and signals are invisible to the naked eye, they must be measured with measuring instruments... This is more troublesome. "Properly transmitting power" is the most important function of connectors, and this is also an issue we should pay attention to during design and production.

NG examples caused by incorrect design

In order to properly transmit power...

To properly transmit power, “three connections” are important: (1) the connection between the cable and the connector terminal, (2) the connection between the board and the connector terminal, and (3) the contact between the connectors.

Common connector application scenarios

(1) Connections between different devices

Connectors for different devices can be connected and disconnected instantly, such as by connecting a hard drive to increase functionality for a personal computer, or by using a broadcast relay truck to connect devices in a car to an antenna.

(2) Increased freedom in machine design

By sandwiching the connector, the layout options in the device can be expanded. Whether placed on the substrate, overlapping the substrate, or vice versa, the connectors are spaced apart.

(3) Seeking ease of assembly

In assembly line operations, a large number of parts need to be assembled. Parts from various companies are connected through connectors, making production line operations quick and easy.

(4) Can add or exchange memory, etc.

Because it is connected through a connector, it can be added by pointing to a storage device such as a computer, and it can be repaired by replacing damaged parts. Like this, connectors are widely used and are everywhere around us. Take a smartphone as an example. Dozens of interface connectors, internal connection connectors, coaxial connectors, etc. are used in a smartphone. Wireless headphones and electronic cigarettes also use ultra-small connectors. Take a car battery as an example; assuming that the battery cable is fixed and welded to the battery, the car manufacturer has increased the workload of installing the battery, which increases the production time and cost; when the battery is damaged and needs to be replaced, the car must be sent to the repair station, the old one must be removed by desoldering, and then a new one must be welded, which requires more labor costs; with a connector, many troubles can be avoided. Just buy a new battery from the store, disconnect the connector, remove the old battery, install the new battery, and reconnect the connector; this simple example illustrates the benefits of connectors; it makes the design and production process more convenient and flexible, and reduces production and maintenance costs; in addition, connectors are not only used in homes, but also widely used in cars, trams, power stations, power stations, factories, robots working in factories, and other corners of society.