A Guide to Cable Connectors: Styles and Uses

A DB-style (D-subminiature) connector provides a reliable connection for transmitting signals and data between devices. Its distinctive D-shaped shell contains multiple pins that carry data such as images and video. Available in both male and female versions, these connectors ensure a secure, stable connection on both ends.

Most common uses: Computers, printers, and medical equipment.

A VHDCI (Very High-Density Cable Interconnect) connector is designed for high-speed data transmission in compact spaces, such as servers and Wi-Fi routers. Its durable shell houses a sliding contact mechanism that enables fast, efficient signal transfer. Thanks to their compact size, VHDCI connectors are ideal for tight or confined installations.

Most common uses: Data centers and servers.

Fiber optic cable connectors precisely align and join optical fibers to transmit data, video, and audio via light pulses. Each fiber end is secured in a ferrule, creating a strong and reliable connection between cables. These connectors enable high-speed, efficient data transfer with minimal signal loss.

Most common uses: Telecommunications, data centers, and high-speed internet connections.

USB cable connectors offer a secure, plug-and-play connection between devices like computers, keyboards, mice, and printers. They can be connected or disconnected without powering down the device, ensuring data remains intact. With universal compatibility, USB connectors support a wide range of peripherals on a single system.

Most common uses: Computers, mice, keyboards, smartphones, and printers.

A Centronics-style connector is a D-shaped cable interface commonly used in printers and computer systems for parallel data transfer. It features ribbon-style contacts housed within a durable shell, designed to receive data from connected devices such as computers or printers.

Most common uses: Printers, computers, scanners, and hard drives.

Mini Centronics-style connectors, like their larger counterparts, are compact interfaces used to connect computers, printers, and scanners. Instead of traditional pins, they use flat ribbon-style contacts to establish a parallel connection. These smaller connectors securely fasten between devices, enabling fast and reliable data transfer.

Most common uses: Printers, computers, and scanners.

Audio connectors transmit analog or digital signals between devices and come in various shapes and sizes, including male and female ends. A proper fit between connectors ensures a secure connection for clear and accurate data transmission.

Most common uses: Microphones, musical instruments, home theater systems, and soundbars.

.050 connectors feature a compact design with a 0.050-inch contact pitch, making them ideal for data, audio, and video transmission in space-constrained environments. Commonly used in low-power applications, their small size reduces the need for high power levels. These connectors come in various shapes, including male and female ends, so it’s crucial to select the correct type for your specific application.

Most common uses: Safety systems, lighting, and air conditioning.

Socket connectors serve as the female counterpart to pin connectors, forming a secure and continuous connection for data transmission in various applications, including automotive systems, medical equipment, and telecommunications. When mated with a pin connector, they ensure reliable performance. Gold or tin plating is often used to prevent corrosion and enhance electrical conductivity.

Most common uses: Telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics.

RJ-style (Registered Jack) connectors are commonly used in telecommunications equipment such as Wi-Fi routers and computers. As an industry standard for network connections, they contain copper wires that align with corresponding pins when plugged in, ensuring reliable data transmission.

Most common uses: Routers, computers, and telephones.

A secure connection between devices is essential for fast and efficient transfer of voice, audio, and video data. DIN connectors feature a standard round design with various pin configurations to ensure compatibility and a secure fit across a wide range of devices.

Most common uses: Audio and video equipment

Mini DIN-style connectors function similarly to their larger counterparts but are designed for compact devices where space is limited. With a smaller diameter and pins arranged in horizontal rows, they are ideal for tight configurations. Available in 3 to 9 pin counts, they provide a secure and reliable connection.

Most common uses: Video game consoles, computers, keyboards, and video equipment.

Token Ring connectors are used in Token Ring network systems, a type of local area network (LAN) technology. In a Token Ring network, a special data packet called a "token" circulates through the network, and only the device holding the token can send data, helping to avoid collisions and manage traffic efficiently. Token Ring connectors typically use shielded twisted-pair (STP) cabling and 9-pin connectors, such as the IBM Data Connector (IDC), to ensure stable, noise-resistant communication between devices.

Most common uses: Point of sale systems and industrial control systems.

FireWire connectors enable high-speed data transfer between devices such as external hard drives, digital cameras, and camcorders. They allow for quick and efficient transmission of photos and videos, often without requiring the computer to manage the data exchange directly. FireWire also supports direct device-to-device communication, streamlining workflows and reducing processing load.

Most common uses: Hard drives, camcorders, digital cameras, and scanners.

BNC connectors provide a secure, reliable connection for transmitting high-frequency signals between devices such as cameras and broadcast equipment. The male pin fits snugly into the female connector, and the twist-lock mechanism allows for quick and easy connection or disconnection.

Most common uses: Audio equipment, professional video, and television broadcasting.

Power cords supply electricity to connected devices through a continuous flow once plugged into a power source. They come with various male and female connector types to ensure compatibility. The outer casing protects the cord from damage, while the internal copper wiring provides excellent electrical conductivity for efficient power transfer.

Most common uses: Household appliances, industrial equipment, and electronics.