Top 10 Taiwan PCB Connectors Manufacturers & Suppliers: Your Guide to Reliable Interconnect Solutions
Top 10 Taiwan PCB Connectors Manufacturers & Suppliers: Your Guide to Reliable Interconnect Solutions
In the intricate world of electronics, PCB (Printed Circuit Board) connectors are the unsung heroes, providing the essential links that enable seamless signal and power flow within and between electronic devices. From the simplest consumer gadgets to the most complex industrial machinery and cutting-edge telecommunications infrastructure, PCB connectors are indispensable components. They facilitate modularity, ease of assembly, and maintainability in electronic designs. As a global powerhouse in electronics manufacturing, Taiwan has emerged as a leading hub for producing high-quality and innovative PCB connectors.
Taiwanese PCB connector manufacturers are globally renowned for their precision engineering, advanced manufacturing technologies, and unwavering commitment to delivering reliable and high-performance interconnect solutions for every conceivable application. They produce an extensive array of PCB connector types, encompassing board-to-board connectors, wire-to-board connectors, I/O connectors, and specialized connectors for high-speed data, power delivery, and harsh environments. For businesses seeking dependable and cutting-edge PCB connectors, Taiwan offers a vibrant ecosystem of manufacturers capable of meeting the most demanding technical specifications, volume requirements, and application-specific challenges of today's electronics industry.
This comprehensive guide will explore the top 10 PCB connector manufacturers in Taiwan, providing an in-depth analysis of their core strengths, diverse product portfolios, and key contributions to the global PCB connector market. Whether you are designing next-generation consumer electronics, developing advanced industrial automation systems, building robust automotive electronics, or innovating in any field requiring reliable PCB-level interconnectivity, understanding these leading manufacturers is crucial for making informed sourcing decisions and ensuring the performance and longevity of your electronic products.
Top 10 Taiwan PCB Connector Manufacturers (In Alphabetical Order)
The following list highlights ten of the most reputable and innovative PCB connector manufacturers in Taiwan. These companies have been selected based on their demonstrated product quality, technological innovation in PCB connectors, established market presence, industry reputation within the connector sector, and their expertise in serving diverse application needs.
1. ACON Advanced Connectors Inc. (宏致電子股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.acon.com/ - Established: 1986
- Headquarters: Taoyuan City, Taiwan
- Focus: ACON Advanced Connectors Inc. is a major connector manufacturer with a broad product portfolio, including a comprehensive range of PCB connectors encompassing board-to-board, wire-to-board, and I/O types. They serve diverse industries including computer, communication, consumer electronics, and industrial sectors.
- Product Highlights:
- Extensive Range of PCB Connector Types and Styles: ACON offers a vast selection of PCB connectors, including fine-pitch board-to-board connectors, robust wire-to-board connectors, and various I/O connector solutions, catering to diverse connectivity needs.
- High-Speed PCB Connectors for Data and Signal Integrity: They manufacture high-speed PCB connectors designed for demanding data transmission applications, ensuring signal integrity and performance in high-speed digital systems.
- Customizable PCB Connector Solutions and Cable Assemblies: ACON provides customization options for PCB connectors and offers integrated cable assembly services, providing complete interconnect solutions tailored to specific customer requirements.
- Industry Strengths: ACON's strength lies in its large-scale manufacturing capability, broad connector portfolio, and ability to offer comprehensive interconnect solutions, including both PCB connectors and cable assemblies. Their focus on high-speed connectors and customization makes them a versatile supplier for diverse applications.
2. Cvilux Corporation (信音企業股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.cvilux.com.tw/ - Established: 1990
- Headquarters: New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Focus: Cvilux Corporation is a comprehensive connector and cable assembly manufacturer with a broad product range, including a strong offering of PCB connectors encompassing board-to-board, wire-to-board, and FPC/FFC connectors. They serve diverse industries including computer peripherals, consumer electronics, automotive, and medical equipment.
- Product Highlights:
- Fine-Pitch Board-to-Board Connectors for High-Density PCBs: Cvilux specializes in fine-pitch board-to-board connectors, enabling high-density interconnects in compact electronic devices and space-constrained PCB designs.
- Wire-to-Board Connectors with Various Termination Options: They offer wire-to-board connectors with diverse termination options such as IDC, crimp, and screw types, providing flexibility for different wiring and assembly methods.
- FPC/FFC Connectors for Flexible Circuit Interconnects: Cvilux provides a comprehensive range of FPC/FFC connectors for connecting flexible printed circuits, essential for compact and flexible electronic designs.
- Industry Strengths: Cvilux's strength lies in its comprehensive connector portfolio, particularly its expertise in fine-pitch board-to-board connectors and FPC/FFC connectors for compact and flexible electronics. Their ability to offer both connectors and cable assemblies provides added value to customers.
3. EDAC PRECISION ELECTRONICS CO., LTD. (毅德精密電子股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.edac.tw/ - Established: 1994
- Headquarters: Taichung City, Taiwan
- Focus: EDAC PRECISION ELECTRONICS CO., LTD. is a manufacturer specializing in precision connectors and custom cable assemblies for demanding applications. Their PCB connector offerings include robust and high-reliability board-to-board and wire-to-board connectors, often for industrial, medical, and aerospace applications.
- Product Highlights:
- High-Reliability PCB Connectors for Demanding Environments: EDAC focuses on producing high-reliability PCB connectors designed to withstand harsh environments, vibration, and shock, suitable for industrial, medical, and aerospace applications.
- Robust Board-to-Board Connectors with Secure Mating: They offer robust board-to-board connectors with secure mating mechanisms, ensuring reliable connections in demanding applications where vibration and shock are concerns.
- Customizable High-Reliability PCB Connector Solutions: EDAC provides customization options for high-reliability PCB connectors, tailoring solutions to specific performance, environmental, or mechanical requirements in critical applications.
- Industry Strengths: EDAC's expertise in precision and high-reliability connector manufacturing makes them a strong supplier for demanding applications requiring robust and dependable PCB interconnects. Their focus on ruggedization and customization for harsh environments is a key differentiator.
4. Evertron Electronics Co., Ltd. (永通電子股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.evertron.com.tw/ - Established: 1988
- Headquarters: New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Focus: Evertron Electronics is a comprehensive connector manufacturer with a broad product range including various connector types, and they maintain a solid offering of PCB connectors encompassing board-to-board, wire-to-board, and card edge connectors, catering to general electronics and diverse application needs.
- Product Highlights:
- Standard Board-to-Board and Wire-to-Board Connector Series: Evertron offers standard series of board-to-board and wire-to-board connectors in various pitches and configurations, meeting common PCB interconnect requirements.
- Card Edge Connectors for PCB Expansion and Interfacing: They provide card edge connectors for PCB expansion slots and interfacing, suitable for various computer and electronic systems requiring modularity.
- Cost-Effective PCB Connector Solutions for Volume Production: Evertron focuses on providing cost-effective PCB connector solutions suitable for volume production in general electronics manufacturing, offering a balance of reliability and affordability.
- Industry Strengths: Evertron's broad connector portfolio and focus on cost-effective solutions make them a practical supplier for general electronics manufacturers requiring standard and reliable PCB connectors for a wide range of applications. Their card edge connector offerings add to their versatility.
5. Formosa TNC Co., Ltd. (鴻儒精密工業股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.formosatnc.com.tw/ - Established: 1984
- Headquarters: Taichung City, Taiwan
- Focus: Formosa TNC Co., Ltd., also known as TNC Industrial, is a manufacturer specializing in connectors, cable assemblies, and antennas. Their connector offerings include a selection of PCB connectors alongside RF connectors, power connectors, and I/O connectors, catering to diverse connectivity needs in electronic systems.
- Product Highlights:
- Versatile PCB Connector Range for Signal and Power: Formosa TNC offers a versatile range of PCB connectors suitable for both signal and power transmission, providing solutions for diverse interconnect requirements within PCBs.
- Board-to-Board Connectors with Robust Mechanical Design: They provide board-to-board connectors with robust mechanical designs, ensuring secure and reliable mating in various applications, including those with mechanical stress considerations.
- Custom Cable Assemblies with Integrated PCB Connectors: Formosa TNC offers custom cable assembly services incorporating PCB connectors, providing integrated interconnect solutions with cable and connector combinations tailored to specific system designs.
- Industry Strengths: Formosa TNC's diverse connector portfolio and cable assembly capabilities, including their versatile PCB connector offerings and robust mechanical designs, make them a flexible supplier for customers seeking integrated interconnect solutions with both PCB connectors and cable assemblies.
6. Hour Terng Industrial Co., Ltd. (豪爾盛業股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.hourterng.com.tw/ - Established: 1983
- Headquarters: New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Focus: Hour Terng Industrial Co., Ltd. is primarily known for its extensive range of audio and video connectors. However, they also manufacture a selection of reliable PCB connectors, leveraging their expertise in connector manufacturing and focusing on robust and cost-effective solutions for general electronic applications.
- Product Highlights:
- Durable and Cost-Effective PCB Connectors for General Use: Hour Terng offers durable and cost-effective PCB connectors designed for general electronic applications, providing reliable interconnect solutions for various PCB designs.
- Wire-to-Board Connectors with User-Friendly Termination: They provide wire-to-board connectors with user-friendly termination options, simplifying wiring and assembly processes in electronic devices and systems.
- Standard PCB Connector Configurations for Broad Compatibility: Hour Terng focuses on providing standard PCB connector configurations, ensuring broad compatibility and ease of integration in various electronic designs requiring PCB-level interconnects.
- Industry Strengths: Hour Terng's established reputation for reliable and cost-effective connectors, combined with their focus on durable designs for general use, extends to their PCB connector offerings. Their user-friendly wire-to-board connectors and standard configurations make them a practical supplier for a wide range of applications.
7. K.S. Terminals Inc. (健生實業股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.ksterminals.com/ - Established: 1972
- Headquarters: Changhua County, Taiwan
- Focus: K.S. Terminals Inc. is a long-established manufacturer specializing primarily in terminals and wire connectors. However, they also offer a selection of wire-to-board PCB connectors as part of their broader interconnect portfolio, focusing on reliable and robust solutions for power and signal wiring to PCBs.
- Product Highlights:
- Robust Wire-to-Board PCB Connectors for Power and Signal: K.S. Terminals offers robust wire-to-board PCB connectors designed for both power and signal wiring applications, ensuring reliable connections for power delivery and signal transmission to PCBs.
- Screw Terminal Block PCB Connectors for Secure Wire Termination: They specialize in screw terminal block PCB connectors, providing secure and reliable screw-type termination for wires to PCBs, suitable for industrial and power applications.
- Durable and High-Current Wire-to-Board Solutions: K.S. Terminals focuses on durability and high-current capabilities in their wire-to-board PCB connector offerings, ensuring robust performance in demanding power and signal wiring scenarios.
- Industry Strengths: K.S. Terminals' specialization in terminals and wire connectors, combined with their offering of robust wire-to-board PCB connectors, makes them a strong supplier for applications requiring reliable and durable wire terminations to PCBs, particularly in power and industrial sectors. Their focus on screw terminal blocks is a key differentiator.
8. Kinsun Industries Inc. (金順工業股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.kinsun.com/ - Established: 1986
- Headquarters: Taichung City, Taiwan
- Focus: Kinsun Industries Inc. is a comprehensive connector manufacturer with a diverse product range including waterproof connectors, modular jacks, and RF antennas. Their PCB connector offerings include a selection of robust and environmentally sealed PCB connectors, often for industrial, outdoor, and harsh environment applications.
- Product Highlights:
- Waterproof PCB Connectors for Harsh Environment Applications: Kinsun offers waterproof PCB connectors designed to meet IP ratings for protection against dust and water ingress, crucial for outdoor electronics, industrial equipment, and harsh environment deployments.
- Ruggedized PCB Connectors for Vibration and Shock Resistance: They manufacture ruggedized PCB connectors with enhanced durability and vibration/shock resistance, ensuring reliable performance in demanding industrial and mobile applications.
- Modular and Stackable PCB Connector Options: Kinsun provides modular and stackable PCB connector options, offering design flexibility and space-saving solutions for complex PCB assemblies and stacked board configurations.
- Industry Strengths: Kinsun Industries' expertise in waterproof and ruggedized connectors, combined with their offering of environmentally sealed and robust PCB connectors, makes them a leading supplier for applications requiring reliable performance in harsh environments. Their waterproof and ruggedized PCB connector options are key differentiators.
9. Lotes Co., Ltd. (連展科技股份有限公司)
- Website:
http://www.lotes.cc/ - Established: 1986
- Headquarters: New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Focus: Lotes Co., Ltd. is a diversified connector manufacturer with a wide range of products, including PCB connectors, alongside their offerings in RF, data, and power connectors. They serve various markets including telecommunications, computer peripherals, automotive, and industrial equipment, supporting diverse PCB interconnect needs.
- Product Highlights:
- Comprehensive PCB Connector Portfolio for Diverse Applications: Lotes offers a comprehensive portfolio of PCB connectors, encompassing board-to-board, wire-to-board, FPC/FFC, and memory card connectors, catering to a wide range of interconnect requirements.
- High-Speed Board-to-Board Connectors for Data Transmission: They manufacture high-speed board-to-board connectors designed for demanding data transmission applications, ensuring signal integrity and performance in high-speed digital systems.
- Automotive Grade PCB Connectors for Reliable In-Vehicle Connectivity: Lotes provides automotive grade PCB connectors designed to meet the stringent requirements of automotive applications, ensuring reliable connectivity in harsh automotive environments.
- Industry Strengths: Lotes's diverse product range and expertise in various connector types, including their comprehensive PCB connector portfolio and focus on high-speed and automotive grade solutions, position them well to serve customers with diverse and demanding PCB interconnect needs across various industries.
10. Molex Taiwan Limited (台灣莫仕股份有限公司)
- Website:
(Taiwan Website) &http://www.molex.com/tw/ (Global Website)http://www.molex.com/ - Established: 1938 (Molex Incorporated - USA), Taiwan branch established later.
- Headquarters (Taiwan): New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Focus: Molex Taiwan Limited, a branch of the global connector giant Molex Incorporated, offers an incredibly extensive range of connectors, including a truly comprehensive selection of PCB connectors spanning virtually every type and configuration imaginable. They serve every industry, from consumer electronics and data communications to automotive, medical, industrial, and aerospace, providing PCB interconnect solutions for the broadest spectrum of applications.
- Product Highlights:
- Unmatched Breadth of PCB Connector Types and Configurations: Molex offers the widest variety of PCB connectors available globally, including board-to-board (fine-pitch, mezzanine, high-speed, high-power), wire-to-board (crimp, IDC, terminal block), FPC/FFC, memory card, and specialized PCB connectors for almost any application, providing unparalleled design flexibility.
- Leading-Edge High-Speed and High-Power PCB Connector Technology: Molex is a technology leader in high-speed and high-power PCB connectors, developing cutting-edge solutions for demanding data transmission and power delivery requirements in advanced electronic systems.
- Global Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain Strength: Molex leverages its vast global network, providing customers with readily available PCB connector products, extensive engineering and technical support resources worldwide, and a robust global supply chain for reliable sourcing and agile logistics of PCB connectors on a global scale.
- Industry Strengths: Molex's global scale, unmatched product breadth in connectors, technological leadership in connector innovation, and extensive global support network make them the premier supplier for PCB connectors across virtually all industries. Their comprehensive range, cutting-edge technology, global reach, and engineering resources are significant advantages for any business seeking PCB interconnect solutions.
Selecting the Right Taiwan PCB Connector Manufacturer for Your Project
Choosing the optimal PCB connector manufacturer is a critical step in ensuring the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of your electronic products. To make an informed decision, carefully evaluate the following key factors when considering Taiwan PCB connector suppliers:
- Connector Type and Application Requirements: Clearly define the type of PCB connector required for your application (board-to-board, wire-to-board, I/O, etc.) and the specific performance requirements, such as signal type (signal, power, high-speed data), voltage, current, and impedance. Prioritize manufacturers specializing in the specific connector types and performance characteristics that match your application needs.
- Pitch and Size Constraints for PCB Layout: Consider the pitch (spacing between pins) and overall size constraints for your PCB layout. Select manufacturers offering PCB connectors with appropriate pitches and dimensions to fit within your PCB design limitations and achieve desired component density.
- Mounting Style and Assembly Process Compatibility: Determine the required mounting style (surface mount, through-hole, press-fit) and assembly process compatibility for your PCB connectors. Ensure the manufacturer offers connectors compatible with your PCB assembly methods and equipment, streamlining manufacturing and ensuring efficient assembly.
- Environmental and Durability Considerations: Determine the environmental conditions your application will face (temperature range, humidity, vibration, shock, etc.). Choose manufacturers offering PCB connectors designed for the relevant environmental challenges, such as ruggedized, waterproof, or high-temperature options, especially for industrial, automotive, or outdoor applications.
- Signal Integrity and High-Speed Performance Needs: If your application involves high-speed data transmission, prioritize manufacturers offering high-speed PCB connectors designed to maintain signal integrity at the required data rates. Review signal integrity performance data (impedance, insertion loss, crosstalk) to ensure connectors meet your high-speed requirements.
- Power Delivery Requirements for High-Current Applications: If your application requires significant power delivery through PCB connectors, select manufacturers offering high-power PCB connectors with appropriate current ratings and low resistance. Ensure connectors are designed to handle the necessary power levels without overheating or performance degradation.
- Quality Assurance and Industry Standards Compliance: Verify that the manufacturer adheres to relevant international quality standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, etc.) and that their PCB connectors comply with necessary certifications (RoHS, REACH, UL, etc.) and industry-specific standards. Quality certifications and compliance are crucial indicators of consistent product quality and adherence to industry best practices.
- Production Capacity, Scalability, and Lead Times: Evaluate the manufacturer's production capacity and scalability to ensure they can meet your current and future volume requirements for PCB connectors. Consider lead times and supply chain reliability to ensure a consistent and timely supply of components for your production needs.
- Technical Support and Application Engineering Expertise: Assess the manufacturer's technical expertise in PCB connectors and their willingness to provide application guidance, design support, and troubleshooting assistance. Strong technical support and engineering knowledge can be invaluable for complex PCB designs and connector integration challenges.
- Pricing, Cost-Effectiveness, and Total Value Proposition: While cost is always a factor, consider the total value proposition, including quality, reliability, performance, customization capabilities, technical support, lead times, and the manufacturer's reputation in the PCB connector market. A slightly higher initial price from a reputable manufacturer might be justified by superior quality, enhanced reliability, and lower long-term costs associated with product failures or performance issues.
- Industry Reputation, Market Experience, and Customer References: Prioritize manufacturers with a proven track record in the connector industry, a strong reputation for quality and innovation in PCB connectors, and positive customer references within your target industry sectors. Longevity in the connector market and positive customer feedback are often indicators of stability, established expertise, and reliable long-term partnerships.
Conclusion: Taiwan – Your Premier Partner for Reliable PCB Interconnect Solutions
Taiwanese PCB connector manufacturers have solidified their position as global leaders in interconnect technology by consistently delivering high-quality, innovative, and application-driven solutions for a vast array of electronic products and systems. The top 10 manufacturers highlighted in this guide represent the best of Taiwan's PCB connector industry, each offering unique strengths and specialized expertise in serving the diverse needs of the global electronics market. By carefully evaluating your specific application requirements, performance needs, and considering the key factors outlined above, you can confidently select a Taiwan PCB connector manufacturer that will be a valuable and reliable partner in ensuring the performance, reliability, and success of your electronic products. Sourcing PCB connectors from Taiwan provides access to a world-class manufacturing ecosystem, guaranteeing a dependable supply of essential components and contributing significantly to the quality and competitiveness of your electronic designs in the global marketplace.
To further explore these leading manufacturers and their extensive PCB connector product offerings, we encourage you to visit their websites (linked above) and utilize online B2B platforms and industry directories specializing in electronic components and connectors to discover additional Taiwan PCB connector suppliers and compare their specific capabilities, technical specifications, and overall value propositions for your PCB interconnect needs.
This comprehensive guide is intended as a valuable starting point for your PCB connector sourcing process. We highly recommend direct communication with manufacturers to discuss your detailed application requirements, performance expectations, and project specifications, and to conduct thorough due diligence to ensure the best possible long-term partnership for your PCB connector needs in electronic design and manufacturing.
The Strategic Advantages of Sourcing PCB Connectors from Taiwan
Choosing Taiwanese manufacturers for your PCB connector needs offers a multitude of strategic advantages, making Taiwan a premier sourcing destination for businesses worldwide seeking reliable and innovative interconnect solutions:
- Deep-Rooted Expertise in Connector Manufacturing and Electronics: Taiwan's decades of experience as a global electronics manufacturing center has fostered a highly specialized and mature ecosystem for connector production. This includes readily available high-quality materials optimized for connector performance, advanced manufacturing equipment honed for precision and volume production, a highly skilled and experienced workforce adept at connector design and assembly, and a strong culture of quality control and continuous improvement within the connector industry. This established infrastructure ensures consistent quality, technological innovation, and a reliable supply chain for PCB connectors.
- Uncompromising Commitment to Quality and Reliability in Interconnects: "Reliability" is paramount for PCB connectors, as they form the critical links in electronic systems. Taiwanese manufacturers deeply understand this requirement and maintain stringent quality management systems throughout their production processes. They adhere to rigorous testing protocols, often exceeding industry standards, to ensure their PCB connectors provide dependable performance, consistent electrical characteristics, and long-term reliability in diverse operating conditions. This unwavering commitment to quality translates directly to more robust and dependable electronic products.
- Technological Innovation in Connector Design and Performance: Taiwanese manufacturers are at the forefront of PCB connector technology advancements, continuously investing in research and development to create innovative connector designs that meet the evolving demands of the electronics industry. They are leaders in developing connectors for higher data rates (high-speed connectors), increased power delivery (high-power connectors), miniaturization for compact devices, and enhanced durability for harsh environments. This focus on innovation ensures access to cutting-edge connector solutions for advanced electronic designs.
- Extensive Product Range and Customization Capabilities: Taiwanese manufacturers offer a vast spectrum of PCB connector types, encompassing board-to-board connectors (mezzanine, fine-pitch, high-speed), wire-to-board connectors (IDC, crimp, screw terminal), I/O connectors (D-sub, USB, RJ45), and specialized connectors for specific applications. Furthermore, they are highly flexible and often provide extensive customization services to tailor PCB connectors to specific application requirements, PCB layouts, signal characteristics, and mechanical constraints. This breadth of product range and customization capability ensures they can meet the diverse connectivity needs of the electronics market.
- Competitive Pricing and Optimized Cost-to-Performance Ratio: While maintaining high standards of quality and driving technological innovation, Taiwanese manufacturers offer competitive pricing compared to suppliers in many other industrialized regions. This cost-effectiveness is a significant advantage for businesses seeking to optimize their component costs without compromising on the essential reliability and performance of PCB connectors. Sourcing from Taiwan allows for a strategic balance between initial cost and long-term product quality and market competitiveness.
- Seamless Global Supply Chain Integration and Efficient Logistics: Taiwan's strategic geographic location and highly efficient logistics infrastructure ensure seamless and reliable integration into global supply chains. Taiwanese PCB connector manufacturers have established robust international shipping and distribution networks, guaranteeing timely and dependable delivery of products to customers worldwide. This agile and reliable supply chain is crucial for businesses with global manufacturing operations and time-sensitive product launches in the fast-paced electronics industry.
- Strong Intellectual Property Protection and Design Confidentiality: Taiwan has a well-established legal framework for protecting intellectual property rights, providing international buyers with confidence that their proprietary designs and confidential information are secure when collaborating with Taiwanese manufacturers on custom PCB connector solutions. This robust IP protection fosters trust, encourages collaborative innovation, and builds strong long-term partnerships in the competitive connector industry.
PCB Connectors Product Details: Related Sub-category Names
PCB (Printed Circuit Board) connectors are a vast and diverse family of connectors used to create electrical connections to and from PCBs. They are essential for connecting components, modules, wires, and other PCBs in electronic devices. Here are their related sub-category names, categorized for clarity:
Based on Mounting Orientation / Style:
- Vertical Mount PCB Connectors: Mounted perpendicular to the PCB surface, pins go straight down into the board.
- Horizontal Mount PCB Connectors: Mounted parallel to the PCB surface, often along the edge of the board.
- Right Angle PCB Connectors: Mounted at a 90-degree angle to the PCB surface, pins go sideways into the board, often used along the board edge.
- Surface Mount PCB Connectors (SMT): Designed for Surface Mount Technology, soldered directly to pads on the PCB surface, without through-holes.
- Through-Hole PCB Connectors (THT / DIP): Designed for through-hole mounting, pins are inserted into drilled holes and soldered on the opposite side of the PCB.
- Edge Mount PCB Connectors (Card Edge Connectors): Designed to connect to the edge of a PCB, often used for expansion cards or board-to-board connections.
- Mid-Mount PCB Connectors: Designed to be mounted in the middle area of the PCB, not necessarily along the edge.
- Straddle Mount PCB Connectors: Mount on both sides of the PCB edge, "straddling" the board.
- Press-Fit PCB Connectors: Installed by pressing the connector into plated through-holes, creating a solderless connection.
- Reflow Solder PCB Connectors: Designed to be reflow soldered along with other SMT components.
Based on Connector Type / Function:
- Board-to-Board Connectors (BTB): Used to connect two PCBs together.
- Mezzanine Connectors: Parallel board-to-board connectors with very low profile, stacking boards closely.
- Stacking Connectors: Board-to-board connectors designed for stacking PCBs vertically.
- Pin Headers & Female Headers (Header & Socket Connectors): Very common BTB connectors, headers are male pins, and sockets are female receptacles.
- Fine Pitch Board-to-Board Connectors: BTB connectors with small pin spacing for high-density connections.
- High Speed Board-to-Board Connectors: Designed for high-speed data transmission between boards.
- Floating Board-to-Board Connectors: Allow for some misalignment between boards during mating.
- Board-to-Cable Connectors (BTC): While technically a broader category, some connectors are specifically designed for board-to-cable connections between PCBs.
- Wire-to-Board Connectors (WTB): Used to connect wires or cables to a PCB.
- Terminal Blocks (Barrier Terminal Blocks, Eurostyle Terminal Blocks): Screw or spring clamp terminals for connecting individual wires to a PCB.
- IDC Connectors (Insulation Displacement Connectors): Used for terminating ribbon cables or discrete wires without stripping.
- Crimp Style Connectors (Crimp Housings & Terminals): Use crimp terminals inserted into housings for wire-to-board connections.
- Discrete Wire Connectors: Connectors for individual discrete wires.
- Power Wire-to-Board Connectors: Designed for carrying higher current for power delivery to the PCB.
- Signal Wire-to-Board Connectors: Designed for signal transmission from wires to the PCB.
- Pluggable Wire-to-Board Connectors: Allow for easy plugging and unplugging of wire harnesses from the PCB.
- FPC/FFC Connectors (Flexible Printed Circuit/Flat Flexible Cable Connectors): For connecting flexible flat cables to PCBs.
- Input/Output (I/O) PCB Connectors: Connectors mounted on the PCB edge for external connections to the device.
- USB Connectors (USB Type-A, Type-B, Mini-USB, Micro-USB, USB-C): For USB interface on PCBs.
- Ethernet Connectors (RJ45): For Ethernet network connections on PCBs.
- HDMI Connectors: For HDMI video and audio output on PCBs.
- DisplayPort Connectors: For DisplayPort video and audio output on PCBs.
- Audio Jacks (3.5mm, 2.5mm): For audio input/output on PCBs.
- D-Sub Connectors (DB9, DB15, DB25, HD D-Sub): Older style I/O connectors for serial, parallel, and video interfaces.
- RF Connectors (SMA, SMB, SMC, MCX, MMCX, U.FL/IPEX): For RF signal connections on PCBs.
- Power Jacks (DC Power Jacks, Barrel Connectors): For DC power input to PCBs.
- Memory Card Connectors (SD Card, MicroSD Card, SIM Card): For integrating memory card slots onto PCBs.
- Battery Connectors: Designed for connecting batteries to PCBs.
Based on Pin Style / Termination Type:
- Pin Headers (Male Headers): Rows of pins for mating with female connectors.
- Straight Pin Headers: Pins are straight.
- Right Angle Pin Headers: Pins are at a right angle.
- SMT Pin Headers: Designed for surface mount soldering.
- Through-Hole Pin Headers: Designed for through-hole soldering.
- Square Pin Headers: Pins have a square cross-section.
- Round Pin Headers: Pins have a round cross-section.
- Female Headers (Sockets): Receptacles to receive pin headers or other male connectors.
- Straight Female Headers: Straight orientation.
- Right Angle Female Headers: Right angle orientation.
- SMT Female Headers: Designed for surface mount soldering.
- Through-Hole Female Headers: Designed for through-hole soldering.
- Box Headers (Box Connectors): Female headers with a box-like housing for polarization and protection.
- Blade Connectors: Use flat blades as contacts, often for power connections.
- Fork Connectors (U-Connectors / Spade Connectors): U or fork-shaped contacts for screw terminals or blade mating.
- Wire Wrap Connectors: Pins designed for wire wrapping termination (older technology).
Based on Pitch / Pin Spacing:
- Standard Pitch PCB Connectors (2.54mm / 0.1 inch): Traditional and widely used pitch.
- Fine Pitch PCB Connectors (2.0mm, 1.27mm, 1.0mm, 0.8mm, 0.5mm, etc.): Smaller pin spacing for higher density and miniaturization.
Based on Number of Rows:
- Single Row PCB Connectors: One row of pins or contacts.
- Dual Row PCB Connectors: Two rows of pins or contacts.
- Multi-Row PCB Connectors: More than two rows of pins or contacts for high pin counts.
Based on Application / Industry:
- Industrial PCB Connectors: Ruggedized and reliable connectors for industrial environments.
- Automotive PCB Connectors: Vibration-resistant, high-temperature, and environmentally sealed for automotive applications.
- Medical PCB Connectors: Meeting medical industry standards, biocompatible materials, and reliable connections.
- Aerospace PCB Connectors: High-reliability, high-performance connectors for aerospace applications.
- Consumer Electronics PCB Connectors: Cost-effective connectors for mass-produced consumer devices.
- Telecommunications PCB Connectors: High-speed and reliable connectors for telecom equipment.
- LED Lighting PCB Connectors: Connectors specifically designed for LED lighting applications.
- Power PCB Connectors: High-current connectors for power distribution on PCBs.
Based on Features:
- Locking PCB Connectors: Feature locking mechanisms (latches, clips, screws) to prevent accidental disconnection, especially in vibration-prone environments.
- Polarized PCB Connectors: Designed with features to ensure correct mating orientation, preventing misconnections.
- Shielded PCB Connectors: Include shielding to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI).
- Unshielded PCB Connectors: Basic connectors without specific EMI/RFI shielding.
- Waterproof PCB Connectors (Sealed PCB Connectors): Designed with seals to protect against moisture and dust ingress, often with IP ratings.
- High Temperature PCB Connectors: Designed to withstand high operating temperatures.
- High Current PCB Connectors: Designed to carry high current loads.
- Low Profile PCB Connectors: Designed to minimize height above the PCB for space-constrained applications.
- Color Coded PCB Connectors: Connectors with different colors for easy identification in complex assemblies.
- Tool-less PCB Connectors: Designed for hand mating or quick connection without specialized tools.
- Hot-Swappable PCB Connectors: Designed to allow boards to be inserted or removed while the system is powered on.
This detailed list should provide a comprehensive overview of the sub-categories for PCB connectors. When selecting PCB connectors, carefully consider the mounting style, connector type, pin count, pitch, application environment, and any special features needed for your specific design.