Selecting the right contact for your connectors can be confusing as they are available in various sizes, shapes, and types. The pins and sockets are used to connect the devices electrically. Some of the connectors come with contacts, while others do not. So, it is very important to visit the best connector manufacturers in India to identify which contacts will be best suited for your applications.
The type of “contact” depends on the product series. In some connectors, solder cups and PC tail contacts are already loaded, but crimp contacts are not. So, the buyer must understand its product series’ requirements before finalizing a contact.
If you are also confused, you are in the right place. This article will help you choose the right contact for your connector.
Electrical Contacts
Standard electrical contacts are of two types: power and signal. Let us understand them in detail.
- Power Contacts
These electrical contacts are used to transfer current and voltage for properly functioning components and equipment. When low voltages are required, the power contacts are the same as the signal contacts. However, for applications that require larger or more energy-intensive voltages, larger-sized power contacts are used. Mostly, for such applications, #8 or #12-sized contacts are used.
- Signal Contacts
These electrical contacts are used to distribute information from one place to another. The larger size of information is referred to as “data.” Signals transfer basic information in the form of binary codes (for example, ON or OFF). They are mostly used for applications like buttons and sensors. Signal contacts do not require transferring much voltage or current. So, they are usually very small in size, such as #20 or #16, etc., and this is enough to transfer a few mA to a few A currents.
NOTE: The smaller the number, the larger the size of contacts and wires; for example, size #10 is larger than size #16.
Points to Consider While Selecting Contacts
- Your Specifications
The first thing to consider while selecting the contact is the voltage and strength of the electric current running through the circuit. The current carrying capacity of the contact helps you decide the type of connectors and the size of contact required. Then check for the layout of the connector. The layout is designed according to the size of the contacts. If you decide on the connector layout first, it will be easier for you to select the contact size.
- Size of wire
Determining the size of the wire for your connector helps you finalize the size of the contact.
- Contact type
You will get the option of selecting different types of contacts on the market, including stamped, formed, and machined. This will depend on the requirements of the crimping equipment.
- Plating
Plating on the contact is important to enhance its durability and conductivity. Mostly, gold plating is commonly used because of its good lubricity and high conductivity. But, yes, it is also expensive. So, decide on the plating that provides a good balance between the cost and reliability of the contact.
- Delivery option
Check for the various delivery formats, as they can be either packaged in loose bags or loaded on a reel.
