What are PCB Connectors Used For?

Printed circuit board connectors are electrical connectors used to transfer power, signal, and data from a piece of hardware to a PCB or to connect one PCB to another.

Most electronic systems would not be able to function without these components and therefore PCB connectors are a key element in any electronic design. 

PCB connectors are available in a variety of designs, shapes, and sizes, suitable for many applications. 

So, if you’re searching for compatible connectors to link circuitry, or redesigning a circuit to improve efficiency, you’re in the right place at Northern Connectors.

What are Board-To-Board Connectors?

PCB board connectors (or board-to-board connectors) are engineered to connect printed circuit boards (PCBs) to one another without the need for wires or a harness.

These connections can be permanent, using a ‘fit and forget’ method such as soldering, or they can be used in a modular fashion, enabling board stacking. 

This is very useful when mating cycles require efficient assembly and disassembly, as the stackable single footprint makes it easy to switch out parts as needed.

As this offers greater design flexibility, board-to-board PCB connectors can accommodate various orientations and space constraints, while reducing maintenance time and improving productivity.

Specifically manufactured for enhanced performance even in harsh conditions, they are ideal solutions for high-powered and high-density applications.

Some PCB board connectors, including backplane connectors, are best used in computer systems, particularly where large amounts of data are required.

What are PCB Terminal Block Connectors?

PCB terminal blocks are modular devices designed to be mounted on PCBs to secure or terminate wires, offering a simple connection point for numerous wires.

They can secure two or more wires to each other (wire-to-wire) or to a PCB (wire-to-board). 

By combining multiple cables and connection types in one versatile block, these optimisable devices can provide a space-saving solution in many environments.

A PCB terminal block can be stackable, with some designs featuring an interlocking capability to securely connect multiple blocks mounted next to each other.

With a range of termination types – including screw, push-in, or quick latch – these reliable electronic blocks can easily be adapted to different applications and electronic devices. They also provide semi-permanent wire connections that can quickly and easily be removed or replaced for inspection or repair work.

Some PCB blocks also have special features to improve assembly and operational efficiency, such as LED and acoustic indicators when a connection is engaged.

Why Choose Us?

Whether you need to connect wires or PCBs, we guarantee our customers a wide range of benefits, including:

• ISO 9001-certified quality assurance
• Rapid service and personalised sales support
• UK technical contacts and full manufacturer support
• Flexible call-off and scheduled order arrangements
• Next-day delivery on stocked items
• Low minimum order value

Get in touch

To find out more about our full range of PCB connectors – including wire-to-board connectors and board-to-board connectors – get in touch today. Call us on 01744 815001, or complete an enquiry form and we’ll contact you at our nearest opportunity.