1. Overview

Rectangular connectors are modular electrical components designed to establish reliable connections between PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) or electronic systems. This category includes headers (male pins), receptacles (female contacts), and sockets, which enable signal/power transmission while maintaining mechanical stability. Their standardized designs and versatility make them critical in modern electronics, from consumer devices to industrial machinery.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

3. Structure and Components

Typical construction includes:

• Contact Terminals: Phosphor bronze or beryllium copper with gold/tin plating for conductivity
• Insulation Housing: Thermoplastic materials (e.g., LCP, Nylon 6/6) for dielectric strength
• Retention Mechanism: Polarization keys and locking tabs to prevent misalignment
• Mounting Options: Through-hole or surface-mount (SMT) configurations

4. Key Technical Specifications

5. Application Fields

• Consumer Electronics: Smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles
• Industrial Automation: PLCs, motor drives, sensor hubs
• Telecommunications: 5G base stations, network routers
• Medical Devices: Diagnostic equipment, patient monitors
• Automotive: ECU connectors, ADAS sensors

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations:

• Electrical requirements (current/voltage levels)
• PCB space constraints and stacking needs
• Environmental factors (temperature, vibration, moisture)
• Cost-effectiveness vs. long-term reliability
• Compliance with standards (IPC, RoHS, REACH)

Example: For automotive applications, prioritize connectors with high vibration resistance (e.g., TE Connectivity's AMPMODU series) and AEC-Q200 certification.

8. Industry Trends

Emerging directions include:

• Miniaturization: Sub-1.0mm pitch connectors for wearable devices
• High-speed capabilities: 10+ Gbps data rates for 5G infrastructure
• Enhanced reliability: Hermetic sealing for aerospace applications
• Modular designs: Tool-less hot-swap systems for data centers