Tips for Choosing the Right Connector for Your Equipment

Every time you want that perfect little connector for an electronic device or gadget, you may end up being confused on which one to select. If you’ve faced this situation, you are not alone. In fact, even an experienced engineer might have difficulty choosing the right connector at times.

However, it is absolutely necessary that you should choose a suitable connector for your device otherwise, it’ll short-circuit that’ll permanently damage your device. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one:

Electrical Requirements

Firstly, you should always consider the electrical requirements of your product. You can find these requirements mentioned on your device, as well as on the box. For example, you’ll notice details such as voltage requirements, type of connector such as AC or DC, resistance, maximum supported voltage, millivolt drop, impedance, inrush current values, and Voltage Stand Wave Ratio (VSWR) among others. In case you don’t understand any or most of these, it would be better to ask someone knowledgeable.

Mechanical Performance

You should look into the mechanical performance parameters of your device; it’ll help you greatly to find the right connector for it. For example, check whether it is compatible with device’s signal levels, valid coverage area and volume, terminal insertion and size tolerance to name a few. Moreover, you should also consider factors such as printed circuit board tolerance.

Keep in mind that PCB tolerance is very important. Choosing an incompatible connector with your device’s printed circuit board may cause irregular behavior or even permanent damage.

Environmental Requirements

This is perhaps the most neglected side of choosing a suitable connector for your device. Often, users don’t take environmental conditions into consideration before choosing a connector. Keep in mind that your connector will work with your device only when it matches the surrounding environment. For example, common environmental considerations include temperature of welding, welding cycle, shock absorption and vibration control among others. Also, consider other environmental factors where you’ll use the device such as climate, temperature, height from sea level or corrosion rate if you reside near sea etc.  

Always keep these requirements in view so that you choose the right device that’ll likely serve you better and longer. Always look to buy your connector from a reputable electronic parts store.

If you are looking to choose a high quality connector for your electronic device, Mammoth Electronics offers a variety of connectors for all electronic appliances having different specifications and requirements. For more information, visit their website or call now at 1-405-254-4112.