The D-SUB connector refers to input and output connectors that consist of two or more rows of contacts enclosed within a shield. They are named for their D-shaped metal shield, which protects them from electromagnetic interference and offers mechanical support.
Also known as D-SUB plugs, these connectors can come with mixed contacts. They are primarily used in sensitive electronics, such as equipment for EMI or RFI, test and measurement devices, and notebook computers.
Features of a D-SUB Connector
The D-SUB plug features a pair of pins primarily enclosed by a metal casing. Furthermore, the sockets fit snugly into the housing that contains the pins. Both housings are connected to a cable shield, providing continuous electrical protection that encompasses the entire cable and connector system.
The DB plug includes jackscrews that enable screws to be attached to the cable end connector cover, securing the connectors together and minimizing mechanical stress. These DB connectors are comprised of specific prefixes and an actual number of pins. Moreover, DB connectors feature special pins primarily utilized for high-performance video connections.
Factors to consider when choosing a D-SUB Connector Type
- The number of Pins or jacks in the connector
The initial letters and their corresponding numbers signify the contacts in each socket of each connector’s plug. However, some have “HD” initials appended, indicating that they are high-density and feature a tighter arrangement of pins and jacks within the shells.
- The connection Methods
The types of D-SUB connectors vary in terms of their connection method and how they link the contacts to the electrical system. Additionally, they are well-suited for locking technology, making them appropriate for connection purposes. The connection duration of D-SUB plugs offers a variety of connection styles for other applications, such as crimping and soldering.
Features of a D-SUB Connector
The D-SUB Plug comprises crimping and IDC connectors that accommodate soldering connectors, as well as various types of board insertions that are compatible with each other during fitting, thereby enabling multiple connections when combined.
The DB plug features an anti-reverse insertion structure made of a solid steel shell, incorporating trapezoidal polar connections to prevent reverse connections. Additionally, DB connectors come in five types of compact rectangular shell sizes.
The D-SUB Plug offers various accessories for enhanced performance, such as a cable clamp and a stationary for mating and fitting. The D-SUB connector type boasts higher current carrying capabilities compared to standard connectors.
The D-SUB connector is available in different density variants, including high, standard, and double densities, catering to most requirements such as coaxial connections. In situations where high current pins are necessary, specialized D-SUB connectors of the required density should be utilized.
Types of D-SUB Connector
There are two primary types of DB connectors: Micro-D and Nano-D sub connectors. Micro-D connectors share the length of a standard D-SUB plug, while Nano-D connectors are half the size of Micro-D. These connectors are predominantly used in the military and aerospace industries and adhere to relevant MIL standards.
Rugged D-SUB connectors, another type of DB connector, feature a robust shield that makes them suitable for harsh environments and extreme conditions, with resistance to water. They are available in a standard density of 9 pins and a high density ranging from 15 to 26 pins.
D-SUB Power & Hybrid consists of high-power connectors commonly utilized in industrial and internet network fields. They offer a current rating of 7.5A for signal strength and can accommodate up to 18 contact arrangements for both signal and power.
Challenges of using the D-SUB connector
Initially, DB plugs were the most compact and practical connectors in the electrical and communication markets. Many personal computers incorporated D-SUB ports for permanent connection purposes, including printers and internet components.
However, despite still being used in consumer electronics, they no longer dominate the markets. Moreover, their large size and inconsistent data transfer speeds made them vulnerable to being replaced by USB ports for connecting personal computers and external devices.
Additionally, the implementation process of DB connectors requires a significant amount of power as they have communication and data lines but lack power lines.
Applications of the D-SUB Connector.
D-SUB plugs remain available and applicable for use in various types of equipment. Thanks to their low costs and reliability, they are utilized in media applications such as video graphics array connections for televisions, gaming, and recording devices.
D-SUB connector types continue to be more rugged and compact, making them an excellent choice for portable recording scenarios where jostling poses a risk. Furthermore, they are widely employed in internet networks and communication ports for connecting computers and other hardware devices, such as printers or power supply units.
Conclusion
Although USB ports are gradually replacing them, D-SUB connector types are still available for use and applications. They come in various designs and are suitable for use in video arrays, printers, and the gaming industry. Additionally, internet network users and industry experts prefer them due to their easy connectivity to ports.
