D-sub

nounStandard termElectronics

A family of electrical connectors featuring a distinctive D-shaped metal shield around multiple pins.

This robust connector style provides mechanical support, correct orientation, and electromagnetic shielding for multi-wire cables. The D-shaped shell ensures the plug can only be inserted one way, protecting the delicate internal pins from damage. They are widely used in legacy serial ports, VGA video outputs, and industrial control interfaces.

Heard on the job

Check the pinout on that 9-pin D-sub before you wire the serial cable to the controller.

Also heard as

  • D-subminiature