Wire housings and crimp housings are essential components in electrical and electronic applications. Crimp housings provide a receptacle for connectors when they are mounted onto a printed circuit board. PCB connectors are used to link different printed circuit boards to one another or to allow a cable to be connected to a PCB, which enables efficient communication between various parts of an electronic system. Connector housings are designed to protect wires and terminals from environmental factors.
How Crimp Housing Works
Crimp housings are moulded according to the type of PCB connector they are designed to fit. The process begins with the connector being crimped onto the end of a wire, creating a secure mechanical and electrical connection. This crimped connector is then inserted into the crimp connector housing, which aligns and holds it in place. When mounted onto a PCB, the connector housing provides structural support and ensures that the connector pins are properly aligned with the corresponding PCB contacts.
This alignment allows for the efficient flow of electricity through the contacts while the housing itself offers protection against environmental contaminants and mechanical stress, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
Types of Crimp Connector Housings
Crimp connector housings vary significantly to meet diverse application needs. They are typically classified with the following categories:
Contact Number: Crimp housings can accommodate from 1 to over 100 contacts, depending on the complexity of the connection required.
Gender: Housings can be male or female, designed to fit corresponding connectors, ensuring a secure and proper connection.
Mounting Type: Types include panel mount, PCB mount, and free-hanging, each suited for different installation requirements.
Housing Material: Made from materials such as plastic, nylon, or metal, chosen based on the required protection level against environmental factors and mechanical stress.
Measurement: Varying sizes and configurations to fit specific connector types and applications, ensuring compatibility and proper fit.
Benefits of Connector Housings
Connector housings enhance the performance and reliability of electrical connections in the following ways:
- Protection: Crimp connector housings shield connections from dust, moisture, and mechanical damage.
- Stability: Ensure secure and stable connections, reducing the risk of disconnection.
- Versatility: Available in various types, sizes, and materials to suit different applications.
- Ease of Use: Simplify the installation and maintenance of connectors.
Industrial Applications of Connector Housings
Connector housings are vital in various industrial applications, providing secure and reliable connections in demanding environments.
- Automotive Industry: Wire to board connector housings ensure stable connections between the vehicle's electronic control units and sensors, critical for the vehicle's performance.
- Consumer Electronics: Socket connector housings protect delicate connections in devices like smartphones and laptops, enhancing durability and reliability.
- Telecommunications: Crimp connector housings are used in networking equipment to maintain secure connections, ensuring uninterrupted data transmission.
- Industrial Machinery: Connector housings protect connections in machinery, preventing environmental damage and ensuring efficient operation.
- Medical Devices: High-quality connector housings are used to ensure reliable connections in medical equipment, crucial for patient safety and device performance.
How to Choose the Right Crimp Housing for Your Needs
Before you buy your crimp connector housing or wire housing, consider the following factors:
- Number of Contacts: Ensure the housing can accommodate the required number of contacts, from single to multi-contact configurations.
- Material: Select a material that provides the necessary protection against environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and mechanical stress.
- Mounting Type: Choose the appropriate mounting style, such as panel mount, PCB mount, or free-hanging, based on your application.
- Gender: Determine whether you need a male or female housing to match your connectors.
- Size and Fit: Ensure the housing fits properly with your existing connectors and equipment.
Buying Connector Housings: Ordering & Delivery
RS Australia is a trusted supplier and distributor of wire housings and crimp connector housings. Buy an assortment of connector housings from trusted brands like Molex, TE Connectivity, Samtec and more. To place an order online, simply browse our extensive catalogue, filter your preferred products based on our extensive specifications, and add to your cart.
RS Group offers fast delivery of connector housings. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.