A physical interface that joins two electrical circuits together, usually consisting of a male plug and a female receptacle. They come in thousands of form factors designed for specific voltages, frequencies, and environmental conditions. A good connector provides a low-resistance path while allowing for repeated mating and unmating without degrading the signal.
Make sure the connector is fully seated until it clicks, or vibration will back it out.
The leading cause of intermittent faults in complex systems is a poorly seated or corroded connector.
Also heard as
- plug
- jack
Related terms
Backshell
A mechanical housing that screws onto the rear of a connector to protect the wire terminations.
Pinout
A diagram or table detailing the purpose of each electrical contact on a connector or chip.
Socket
A mechanical and electrical receptacle designed to hold and connect a removable component.
D-sub
A family of electrical connectors featuring a distinctive D-shaped metal shield around multiple pins.