What Are the Different Connector Types Used in Electronics?

With a focus on premium electronic components, Unikeyic Electronics is a worldwide authorized distributor and stockist. With its headquarters in Singapore, Unikeyic Electronics runs a global supply chain service network that caters to markets all over the world. Operating a self-constructed storage and logistics facility, Unikeyic Electronics provides a wide range of goods and services designed to satisfy the demands of different sectors.

From design to delivery, the supply chain service of Unikeyic Electronics is a one-stop shop.

  • Technical Services: Offering solutions and technological assistance.
  • Procurement of Electronic and Electrical Components: Figuring out the components from approved and trustworthy vendors.
  • PCBA Manufacturing: Providing services related to printed circuit board assembly

This diverse portfolio underscores their capability to support a wide range of applications across numerous industrial sectors.

Connectors: An Overview

In electronics, connectors are non-integrated links that connect two or more electrical circuits. Connectors create contact between wires, cables, printed circuits, and electronic parts to ensure current flow within a component. As with other devices, these electrical connectors come in predefined and custom options catering for appeal needs. Connectors are used across many branches of industry, like automotive, telecommunications, power generation, and consumer electronics.

Connectors play a critical role in ensuring reliable signal and power transmission in industrial environments. There are many types of connectors, each suited for specific applications based on size, current, frequency, durability, and environmental factors. Unikeyic Electronics has got a diverse stock of common connectors and their accessories to meet the customer demands.

Here’s a visual-style table of some commonly used connectors:

Connector TypeApplicationsEnvironment
M12 CircularSensors, Actuators, EthernetIndustrial
D-Sub / RS232 / 485Legacy communication, serial dataControl Cabinets
RJ45 (Industrial)Ethernet networkingEMI-sensitive
Anderson PowerpoleDC Power SystemsBattery Systems
Terminal BlocksPanel WiringControl Panels
Fiber Optic (LC/SC/ST)Noise-immune data communicationLong distances

Let us highlight some of the popular connectors available on the website of Unikeyic Electronics.

Power Connectors: Types, Applications and Availability

Power connectors have been defined as electromechanical fixtures that offer a sound and safe interface between a unit and a power source. They provide dependable power transfer with reduction of risks such as arcing, power loss or overheating. These connectors are important in many applications such as electronics, vehicles and industrial equipment.

They are produced in varying types, shape, and ratings depending on parameters like voltages, current, environment and usage frequency. A power connector has both electrical and mechanical performance requirements to ensure proper and safe functioning; the connector has been applied with low-voltage consumer devices as well as high-power industrial applications.

Types of Power Connectors

1. AC Power Connectors

Used for carrying alternating current (household mains power and industrial applications).

  • NEMA connectors – Common in North America (e.g., NEMA 5-15 for standard wall outlets).
  • IEC connectors – International standard (e.g., C13/C14 for computers and monitors).
  • Schuko – Used in Europe (Type F).
  • UK plugs – Type G connectors.
DC Connector

2. DC Power Connectors

  • Barrel connectors – Cylindrical, used for laptops and small electronics.
  • Molex connectors – Used in computers for powering drives.
  • DC jacks and plugs – Common in hobby electronics and CCTV systems.

3. Computer and Server Power

  • ATX connectors – Power motherboards in desktop PCs.
  • EPS connectors – Used in servers and high-performance PCs.
  • PCIe power connectors – Provide extra power to graphics cards.

4. High-Current Industrial Connectors

  • Anderson Powerpole – Modular connectors for high-current DC power.
  • Twist-lock connectors – Secure connection for industrial power tools.
  • IEC 60309 – High-power connectors used in industrial and outdoor environments.

5. Automotive and Marine Connectors

  • Cigarette lighter plugs – 12V DC power in vehicles.
  • SAE connectors – Two-wire connectors for batteries and solar panels.
  • Ring and spade terminals – Crimped onto wires for direct connection to terminals.

Applications of Power Connectors

Application AreaDevices AssociatedCommon Connector Types
Consumer ElectronicsLaptops, TVs, Phones, Gaming ConsolesBarrel jack, USB-C PD, IEC C7/C8, C13/C14
Computers & ServersDesktops, GPUs, Motherboards, ServersATX 24-pin, EPS 8-pin, Molex, PCIe 6/8-pin, SATA power
Industrial EquipmentMotors, CNC machines, WeldersIEC 60309, Twist-lock, Anderson Powerpole, DIN
Automotive & EVsCar electronics, EV chargingSAE, cigarette lighter, CCS, CHAdeMO, ring terminals
TelecommunicationsRouters, Towers, Base stations48V DC plug, Anderson, modular connectors
Medical DevicesMonitors, Ventilators, Diagnostic MachinesLocking IEC C13, custom medical-grade connectors
Aerospace & MilitaryAvionics, Field equipmentMIL-DTL circular connectors, high-vibration resistant
Renewable EnergySolar Panels, Inverters, Battery StorageMC4, ring terminals, Anderson, combiner box terminals
Home AppliancesMicrowaves, Washers, RefrigeratorsNEMA 5-15P, IEC C13, appliance-specific plugs

Availability: Wide stock of power connectors are available for purchase from Unikeyic Electronics.

Photovoltaic (PV) Connectors: Types, Applications and Availability

Photovoltaic (PV) connectors are a special type of electrical connector that are used in solar power systems to connect solar panels to inverters, charge controllers and may be found to connect with PLCs (programmable logic controllers) and actuators in solar power systems. They are meant to be high-voltage direct current (DC) capable and facilitate the efficient transfer of power through the system with low losses.

Unlike other connectors, PV connectors are designed to be used outdoors and therefore they are designed to be UV resistant, water resistant/moisture proof, dust resistant and resistant to extreme temperatures. They commonly include secure locking, so they cannot be disconnected inadvertently, and may often be standardized (such as MC4) to be used with one another and easily attached in solar systems.

Characteristic FeaturesDescription
Voltage RatingTypically rated for up to 1000V or 1500V DC
Current CapacityUsually ranges from 20A to 50A, depending on system size
WeatherproofingIP67 or higher (dust-tight and water-resistant)
DurabilityDesigned for long-term outdoor exposure (25+ years)

Types and Applications of Photovoltaic (PV) Connectors

1. MC4 Connectors

  • MC4 stands for multi-contact, 4mm pin
  • Voltage Rating: Up to 1000V or 1500V DC (depending on model)
  • Current Rating: Up to 50A
  • UV-resistant with IP67 rating

2. Tyco Solarlok Connectors

  • An older type of solar connector, similar in function to MC4
  • Still found in some older or specialized installations

3. Amphenol H4 Connectors

  • Designed as a high-performance MC4-compatible connector
  • Higher current capacity (up to 65A in some models)
  • UL and TÜV certified connector often used in large-scale or industrial solar systems

4. Anderson Powerpole Connectors

  • Polarized and color-coded connector used in off-grid and DIY solar setups
  • Can handle high DC currents (e.g., 50A, 75A, 120A)
JST Tinned crimping terminal (Female)
Connector TypeShapePin TypeMax VoltageCurrent RatingLockingApplications
MC4Cylindrical4mm Round1000–1500V20–50ASnap LockStandard solar panels
Tyco SolarlokRectangularFlat Blade1000V30ASliding LatchOlder PV systems
Amphenol H4Cylindrical4mm Round1000–1500VUp to 65ASnap LockCommercial & utility-scale
Anderson PowerpoleRectangularFlat BladeVariesUp to 350ASnug fitOff-grid & mobile setups

Availability: Huge stock of photovoltaic connectors are available for purchase from Unikeyic Electronics.

Fiber Optic Connectors

A fiber optic connector is a mechanical device that aligns and mates the ends of two optical fibres to allow light transmission with minimal signal loss (insertion loss) and reflection (return loss). These connectors are critical in telecommunications, networking, broadcasting, and data transmission, where high-speed and high-fidelity signal transfer is essential.

Types of Fiber Optic Connectors

1. LC Connector (Lucent Connector)

  • Shape: Small, rectangular; similar to RJ45 size
  • Connection Type: Push-pull
  • Ferrule Size: 1.25 mm
  • Supported Fibres: Single-mode & multimode
  • Polish Types: PC, UPC, APC

2. SC Connector (Subscriber Connector)

  • Shape: Square-shaped body
  • Connection Type: Snap-in/push-pull
  • Ferrule Size: 2.5 mm
  • Supported Fibres: Single-mode & multimode
  • Polish Types: PC, UPC, APC
Amphenol ST connector

3. ST Connector (Straight Tip)

  • Shape: Round with bayonet mount
  • Connection Type: Twist-lock (like BNC)
  • Ferrule Size: 2.5 mm
  • Supported Fibres: Primarily multimode
  • Polish Types: PC

4. FC Connector (Ferrule Connector)

  • Shape: Round threaded body
  • Connection Type: Screw-on
  • Ferrule Size: 2.5 mm
  • Supported Fibres: Single-mode
  • Polish Types: PC, UPC, APC

5. MPO/MTP Connector (Multi-Fiber Push-On)

  • Shape: Rectangular block with 8–24 fibres in one row
  • Connection Type: Push-pull with alignment pins
  • Ferrule: Flat, multi-fibre
  • Supported Fibres: Single-mode & multimode

6. E2000 Connector

  • Shape: Similar to SC with a spring-loaded protective shutter
  • Connection Type: Push-pull
  • Ferrule Size: 2.5 mm
  • Supported Fibres: Single-mode
  • Polish Types: UPC, APC

Applications of Fiber Optic Connectors

ConnectorApplication
LC (Lucent Connector)Data Centers and Enterprise Networking
SC (Subscriber Connector)Patch Panels, Cable TV
ST (Straight Tip)Legacy multimode networks, industrial applications
FC (Ferrule Connector)High-vibration environments
MTP/MPOUsed for 40G/100G/400G Ethernet in high-density data centers
E2000Military and Aerospace Communication

Availability:

Large stock of Fiber Optic Connectorsare available for purchase from Unikeyic Electronics. Since, Unikeyic Electronics has got a diverse stock of connectors and other components, therefore it is highly recommended to go through their product page for more information.