What connector types are used in cable harnesses?

Connectors used on printed circuit boards

Within printed circuit boards, signal beams are often used to transmit logic signals from one point to another. Two types of connectors are most often used to join printed circuit boards: FFC and IDC. An FFC tape does not take up much space but it is an inexpensive solution. Such connectors have a low operating voltage and are usually not used for power supply, but only for transmitting signals. The limitation, however, is the way they are conducted. They can only be bent at right angles. There is otherwise a great risk of disconnection.

IDC cables do not impose such restrictions on the signal bundle routing. Within the IDC tape, we will meet vertical and horizontal joints with different raster. In the area of signal cables, it is impossible not to mention twisted LVDS cables. They ensure a constant impedance and effectively prevent signal interference.

Male and female electrical connectors

Connectors can also be divided by their gender. This is a reference to the anatomy of genital organs. Thus, sockets and plugs provided with pins or prongs are termed male connectors. The female connectors, in turn, have contacts in the holes. Colloquially, male connectors are simply referred to as plugs, and female connectors are simply sockets.

Popular types of electronic connectors

We can distinguish hundreds of types of connectors used in cable harnesses. The choice of the right connector depends on the transmitted voltage, the specific application and the specificity of the entire device. The most common connectors include traditional sockets and slots. Proper connection of cable harnesses is an extremely responsible task that determines the safe and proper functioning of the entire system. New connections, which are characterized by a wider application, greater reliability and faster power transmission are constantly being developed.

The most important application of connectors in cable harnesses

As we have already said, we encounter electrical connectors on a daily basis. A perfect example are USB ports and sockets that we use to charge electrical devices. The connectors can be divided into analog and digital as long as the application goes. Some connectors are used to evenly and safely distribute electricity, while others support low-power logic signals necessary for the proper communication of individual systems.