D-Shaped Connectors - Centronics

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
B57-050-221-202

B57-050-221-202

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS VERT SOLDER

304

B57-050-260-202

B57-050-260-202

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS R/A SOLDER

0

B57-050-220-202

B57-050-220-202

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS VERT PRESS-FIT

0

B57-250-106-115

B57-250-106-115

EDAC Inc.

CONNECTOR - CENTRONICS

0

B57-120-221-202

B57-120-221-202

EDAC Inc.

CONNECTOR - CENTRONICS

0

B57-050-620-202

B57-050-620-202

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS VERT PRESS-FIT

0

B57-050-221-402

B57-050-221-402

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS VERT SOLDER

0

B57-050-260-502

B57-050-260-502

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS R/A SOLDER

0

B57-036-221-802

B57-036-221-802

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 36POS VERT SOLDER

0

B57-050-662-702

B57-050-662-702

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS R/A SOLDER

0

B57-050-620-402

B57-050-620-402

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS VERT PRESS-FIT

0

B57-150-261-201

B57-150-261-201

EDAC Inc.

CONN PLUG 50POS R/A SOLDER

0

B57-050-261-202

B57-050-261-202

EDAC Inc.

CONN RCPT 50POS R/A SOLDER

0

D-Shaped Connectors - Centronics

1. Overview

D-Shaped connectors, named for their distinctive trapezoidal metal shield, are widely used in computing and industrial applications. The Centronics interface, a subset of D-shaped connectors, was originally developed by Centronics Data Computer Corp. for parallel printing. These connectors enable robust electrical and mechanical connections, playing a critical role in legacy systems and specialized industrial equipment despite the rise of USB and wireless technologies.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

TypeFunctional FeaturesApplication Examples
Standard Centronics36-pin configuration, unshielded, 5A max currentLegacy inkjet/dot matrix printers
High-Density Centronics50-pin configuration, improved EMI shieldingIndustrial automation systems
Locking CentronicsThreaded screws for vibration resistanceMedical imaging equipment

3. Structure and Composition

Centronics connectors feature: - Metal shell (zinc alloy or aluminum) for EMI protection - Insulating housing (high-temperature nylon) - Contact pins (phosphor bronze with gold plating) - Screw locking mechanism (optional) The standard 36-pin design includes 20 signal pins and 16 ground pins, arranged in staggered rows to prevent misalignment.

4. Key Technical Specifications

ParameterValue/RangeImportance
Pin Count24-50 pinsDetermines data transmission capacity
Current Rating1-10A per pinDefines power handling capability
Contact Resistance 10m Ensures signal integrity
Dielectric Strength1000VAC rmsPrevents electrical breakdown
Operating Temperature-40 C to +85 CGuarantees performance stability

5. Application Fields

Major industries include: - Office equipment (printers, scanners) - Industrial automation (CNC machines, PLCs) - Medical devices (diagnostic equipment) - Legacy military systems - Test & measurement instruments

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

ManufacturerRepresentative Products
AmphenolCentronics 36-8051 Series
Molex50-87-1360 High-Density Connector
TE ConnectivityDuraCon Centronics 24

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations: - Match pin count and spacing (0.05"-0.1" pitch) - Choose appropriate current rating with 20% safety margin - Select locking mechanism type (standard screws vs. quick-release) - Confirm environmental ratings (IP40 minimum for industrial) - Verify compatibility with existing cabling infrastructure

8. Industry Trends

Current trends include: - Transition to hybrid connectors supporting USB-C and Ethernet - Development of miniaturized D-sub variants (e.g., Micro-Centronics) - Increased adoption of gold-plated contacts for high-reliability applications - Phasing out in consumer electronics, but stable demand in industrial sectors - Integration with PoE (Power over Ethernet) systems for combined data/power delivery

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