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Terminal Blocks - Headers, Plugs and Sockets

Terminal blocks, headers, plugs and sockets (sometimes referred to as plugs and outlets) offer an efficient way to provide electrical or mechanical interconnection between devices. The connection is provided by joining two opposite parts (such as female and male) which are aligned with each other by a common mating surface. Usually, the housings are manufactured in plastic or metal and in a variety of colors, depending on the application.

Definition and Description

Terminal blocks, headers, plugs and sockets refer to devices that enable the connection between two or more devices or components in order to transfer current or data. The electrical connection is provided through conductive metal parts that make contact when the terminals blocks come together.

Terminal blocks are generally divided into four categories: headers, plugs, sockets, and headers with plugs. Each type has its particular design and application field features.

Applications and Features

Headers are generally used in applications where a number of devices need to be connected in parallel with each other. For instance, they are commonly used for connecting sensors, LEDs, or motors. A header is a female half of the connection, meaning that it features metallic pins that must be soldered.

Plugs are usually utilized in PCB applications and act as male half of the terminal connection. They are designed with plugs that contain contacts that can be inserted into a designated socket.

Outlets have the same interface as plugs with female socket contacts. They are commonly used for swapping power levels or for carrying out different tests by easily connecting or disconnecting devices.

Terminal blocks with plugs are a combination of all three types and support versatile applications. They can be used just like a basic header by connecting multiple devices one after the other, or they can be used like a plug-play system; the connection is established once the plug is inserted into the designated socket.

Working Principles

Terminal blocks from headers, plugs, and sockets are a type of electrical connector designed to quickly and efficiently connect two or more devices or components. Terminals and contacts, usually made from metal, serve as a way to connect the two sides of the connection in a safe and reliable manner. Generally, the connection is achieved by matching plugs and sockets of opposite genders and aligning the terminals and contacts on each side of the connection.

Terminal blocks are one of the oldest components in today\'s electronic industry, and come in numerous shapes and sizes. They have versatile applications in prototyping, rapidly populating circuits, and creating reliable connections between two or more devices.