5-5175472-5 Connectors, Interconnects

D-Shaped Connectors - Centronics

D-shaped connectors are among the most popular types of connectors used in the electronics industry. Commonly known as Centronics, they are most widely used for data communication between two electronic devices. Having become an industry standard, Centronics connectors are widely used in a variety of applications, from personal computing to industrial automation.

D-shaped connectors can be divided into three basic types: plastic connectors, printed circuit board (PCB) connectors, and Ethernet connectors. Plastic connectors are designed primarily for short-term, light-duty use. Commonly used in computers and peripherals such as printers, scanners, and digital cameras, they often feature locking or thumbscrews for a secure connection. PCB connectors, on the other hand, are designed for more permanent applications, such as computers and peripherals. They usually feature pin-and-socket contact configurations, making them well suited for high speed data transmission.

Ethernet connectors are the most commonly used type of D-shaped connectors. Designed to connect computers and peripherals to an Ethernet network, they are typically found in PCs, servers, switches, routers, and wireless access points. Ethernet connectors feature special female ports that allow for both a male and female connection, enabling the use of loopback connectors. They are also usually rated for higher currents than the other types of D-shaped connectors.

When it comes to the working principle of D-shaped connectors, the most basic type of connection is a simple mechanical connection. This type of connection works by using metal contacts placed inside a plastic or metal insulator to create an electrical connection between two components. Other types of connections involve a combination of mechanical and electrical components, such as the pin-and-socket contact configurations found in PCB connectors. Ethernet connectors feature specially designed pins and sockets that enable them to transmit data at high speeds.

D-shaped connectors are a versatile and reliable type of connection for many different applications. With the ability to support high-speed data transmission and provide a secure connection, they are an excellent choice for many types of electronic applications. While other types of connectors may offer some advantages, D-shaped connectors are an increasingly popular choice among consumer and industrial electronics.