Pinout

nounStandard termElectronics

A diagram or table detailing the purpose of each electrical contact on a connector or chip.

This reference maps out the specific signals, power lines, and grounds assigned to the physical pins of an integrated circuit or plug. Engineers rely on it during circuit design and troubleshooting to ensure correct wiring and prevent catastrophic shorts. A single mistake in reading it can result in reversing power and ground, instantly destroying the component.

Heard on the job

Pull up the datasheet and double-check the pinout for the UART header before you plug in the serial cable.

Insider tip

Always verify whether a pinout diagram is drawn looking at the front of the mating connector or the solder side of the board.

Also heard as

  • pin diagram