Application Specific Connectors

Used in almost every electronic device or instrument, connectors are a vital piece of equipment. And application specific connectors are often a sophisticated blend of materials that satisfy the strictest requirements of the particular application, ensuring you can drastically reduce the time, effort, and manpower needed to get it done.

From automotive connectors to solar connectors, lighting connectors to DC power connectors, we have a whole host of application specific connectors from leading brands, in stock and ready to ship today.

What are the applications of specific connectors?

Electric connectors are used to join multiple components of electrical circuits to form a continuous path for an electrical current to flow. Application specific connectors, such as automotive connectors, industrial connectors, and lighting connectors, are designed for the very specific electric circuits of each application.

Because electrical power sources can range in size from small batteries to large power grids, the electrical connectors that allow transmission of electricity vary in form greatly. Depending on the electrical current carried and the purpose of the application, there may be several electrical connector types that may be appropriate.

How do application specific connectors work?

Application specific connectors work in the same way as other electric connectors. They are used to join electrical terminations and complete a working circuit. Connectors work in pairs and each have a gender component. The male component, the plug, connects into the female component, the socket, to create either a permanent or temporary connection that can be assembled and removed.

Most electrical connectors have two main parts for making the connections – housing and terminals.

Housing

The housing of electrical connectors refers to the structure or case used to contain the terminals. The housing ensures the stability of the connections and protects the electrical contacts from short-circuiting, as well as from any environmental hazards. They are normally made of plastic, but other insulating materials like ceramics are also used.

Terminals

The terminals refer to the pins in a connector which provide electrical conduction to make connections secure. They are almost always metal, but some use other conductive materials, like carbon and silicone.

Application specific connectors have different pinouts, contact resistance, insulation, sizes, ruggedness, resistance to external hazards, and more. Different physical construction styles exist to easily differentiate one type of connector from another.

What are the different types of application specific connectors?

The most common types of application specific connectors include automotive connectors, lighting connectors, solar connectors, and DC power connectors.

Automotive connectors

Tough and reliable, automotive connectors are used in the automobile industry, and are often placed in parts of the vehicle that are open to the elements. Typically, they are very well sealed against dust ingress and moisture, and usually have a good degree of heat resistance. Because of the vibration often incurred, the connectors have a secure locking system built into the plug and socket to prevent unwanted disconnect.

Lighting connectors

Designed for domestic, commercial, and industrial environments, lighting connectors are the safest and most efficient way of hooking up lighting systems to mains power. Not only are lighting connectors much safer compared with terminal blocks, they’re maintenance free. In addition, because lighting connectors don’t have to be screwed and unscrewed when changed, they have a quicker connection release should you need to reconfigure your lighting – saving you time, and manpower.

Solar connectors

Solar connectors, or photovoltaic connectors, are used to connect solar panels, batteries, and junction boxes. The most common type of solar connector is the MC4 connector, a standardized single pole connector that has built-in strain relief and interlocks. These interlocks ensure a secure mating and protect against accidental release between plugs and sockets. As they are often used outside, MC4 connectors are weather-proof and are paired with cable that is double-insulated and UV resistant. The MC stands for the manufacturer Multi Contact (now Stäubli) and the 4 for the 4mm diameter contact pin.

Plug and socket solar connectors that are mated together in the same photovoltaic system should be from the same manufacturer.

DC power connectors

Designed to supply direct current from a mains connection to a device, DC power connectors are typically used to power small to medium appliances. There are many types of DC power connectors, however the most common is a barrel connector. This style of DC power connectors features an insulated cylindrical tip which accepts a pin from the socket counterpart, creating a safe and secure connection. Because there are different standards of DC plugs, it’s important to use compatible variants.

Why choose RS for your application specific connectors?

Whether you require automotive connectors for your auto business, lighting connectors for a domestic environment, or DC power connectors for a more industrial setting, RS can supply you with the electrical components you need.

You’ll find connectors from leading manufacturers, such as TE Connectivity, Amphenol Industrial, and Molex Incorporated. If you’re unsure of the exact connectors you require, you can refine your search using additional filters. And if you know exactly what you need, you can enter the part number into the search bar.

If your search doesn’t return the connectors you need, please contact our friendly team of advisers for support. Our expert content hub is also available to answer any questions you might have, as well as offer our further expertise about automation and control.