In this section on our website, you will find both terminal blocks for common use in electronics, as well as PCB terminal blocks connectors for PCB, and even some DIN rail terminals with plug-in connectors commonly used in electronics, and other types But those purely for electrical use are in the electrical section.
What is a Terminal Block?
It is a term often used broadly to describe a variety of connectors used to connect cables or wires in electrical and electronic applications. They are designed to provide a secure and reliable connection between cables or wires without soldering.
In summary, a terminal block connector is not a specific type of connector, but rather a general category that includes various types of connectors, such as screw connectors, spring connectors, push-in connectors, barrier connectors, etc.
Types of Terminal Blocks
Terminal blocks are used to quickly and easily connect and disconnect wires in electrical and electronic devices. There are several types of terminal block connectors, and the choice of type depends on the specific application and user requirements. Here are some common types:
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Screw Terminal Blocks: These connectors use screws to secure the cables in place. The cables are inserted into designated holes and tightened with screws. This category can be further divided into two types:
- Screw Terminal Blocks with Tabs: These have a metal tab that lifts when the screw is turned. The cable is placed under the tab before tightening the screw. As the screw is tightened, the tab lowers, pressing the cable against the base of the connector and securing it in place.
- Screw Terminal Blocks with Elevators: These have a lift mechanism that opens or closes the cable clamping space. The cable is inserted into the space, and the screw is tightened to secure the cable in position.
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Spring Terminal Blocks: These connectors use a spring mechanism to hold the cables securely. When a cable is inserted, the spring compresses, gripping the cable securely.
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Quick-Insertion Terminal Blocks (Push-In Type): These connectors allow for the quick insertion of cables without the need for tools. The cable is inserted directly into the connector, and an internal mechanism holds the cable in place.
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Lever Terminal Blocks: These connectors have a lever that can be raised to open the connector, making it easier to insert or remove cables. Once the lever is lowered, it firmly secures the cables.
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IDC (Insulation Displacement Connection) Terminal Blocks: These connectors cut through the cable's insulation to establish an electrical connection. They are commonly used in flat cable applications.
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Modular Terminal Blocks: These allow multiple blocks to be connected to create a custom configuration based on user needs.
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Cage Clamp Terminal Blocks: They use a clamping mechanism to hold the cables in place without the need for tools.
These are just a few examples, and the variety of terminal block connectors can be extensive. The choice of the right connector depends on factors such as the specific application, ease of use, reliability, and other particular system requirements.
By application, we can classify them into:
General Terminal Blocks:
- Used in a wide variety of electrical and electronic applications.
- Available in various types, such as screw blocks, spring blocks, push-in blocks, among others.
- Suitable for general-purpose applications in electronics, electrical work, and wiring.
DIN Rail Terminal Blocks:
- Designed to be mounted on standard DIN rails in electrical cabinets.
- Common in industrial and automation applications.
- Provide neat and secure connections in industrial environments.
High-Current Terminal Blocks:
- Capable of handling high electrical currents.
- Used in power applications, such as electrical distribution systems and motor control.
PCB Terminal Blocks (Printed Circuit Board):
- Designed for mounting on printed circuit boards (PCBs).
- Widely used in electronics and PCB manufacturing.
- Facilitate the connection of electronic components to the PCB.
Waterproof or Harsh Environment Terminal Blocks:
- Sealed and designed to withstand moisture, dust, and adverse environmental conditions.
- Used in outdoor, marine, or humid industrial applications.
High-Frequency (RF) Terminal Blocks:
- Designed for high-frequency applications, such as radio frequency (RF) and microwave.
- Maintain precise electrical connections and minimize signal loss.
Communication Terminal Blocks:
- Specifically designed for telecommunications and networking applications.
- Facilitate the connection of network and telecommunications cables.
Instrumentation Terminal Blocks:
- Used in measurement and control applications, such as industrial instrumentation.
- Provide accurate and reliable connections for sensors and measurement devices.
Low-Voltage Terminal Blocks:
- Designed for low-voltage applications, such as control systems and signaling.
- Suitable for applications where safety is a priority.
Solar Power Terminal Blocks (PV):
- Used in photovoltaic solar power systems to connect solar panels and inverter components.
- Designed to handle high-power currents and solar conditions.
This classification provides a general overview of the different types of terminal blocks and their common applications. The choice of the right terminal block depends on the specific application and technical requirements of each project.
What Types of Terminal Blocks are Available for PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards)?
Terminal block connectors for PCBs are also known as PCB terminal blocks, PCB connectors, PCB terminal strips, or PCB terminals. They come in two fundamental types:
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Non-Pluggable PCB Terminal Blocks:
- These terminal blocks have contacts that are soldered to the PCB from the bottom, while the cable is connected directly from the side or top.
- Orientation options exist for both the part that connects to the PCB and the part that connects to the cable, allowing the cable to exit parallel to the PCB, at a 45-degree angle, or from the top.
- Mounting to the PCB can be through-hole technology (THT) or surface-mount technology (SMT). THT is more common due to its robustness, as these components often face pressure.
- Cable connection methods are the same as those mentioned earlier for other types of terminal block connectors, including screw, spring, push-in, lever, etc.
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Pluggable PCB Terminal Blocks:
- This type of connector consists of two parts: a male connector and a female connector. Typically, the male connector is soldered to the PCB and has pins or contacts that insert into the female connector to establish the electrical connection. The cable is connected to the female part of the assembly. However, in some cases, the female connector is soldered to the PCB.
- Orientation options exist for both the part that connects to the PCB and the part that connects to the cable, allowing the cable to exit parallel to the PCB, at a 45-degree angle, or from the top.
- Mounting to the PCB can be through-hole technology (THT) or surface-mount technology (SMT), with THT being more common due to its robustness.
- Cable connection methods are the same as those mentioned earlier for other types of terminal block connectors, including screw, spring, push-in, lever, etc.
