How To Remove PCB Connectors - Northern Connectors

Printed circuit boards – widely referred to as PCBs – are an integral component for many industrial applications where space is at a premium, and are ideal solutions for high-powered and high-density specifications.

Widely used in consumer electronics, appliances, data and electrical cabinets, as well as the automotive industry, PCB connectors provide a versatile solution that can house a wide range of connectors and wires, covering every type of device configuration imaginable.

Here, we explain the most common types of connectors used with PCBs and the method process required to disconnect these PCB connectors safely.

Coaxial connectors

To disconnect coaxial connectors from a printed circuit board, slide a thin, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)-safe pry tool or tweezers underneath the wire until it feels snug against the connector, then pry it straight up from the board.

If you wish to reinstall, hold the connectors in place and press them straight down. The connectors snap into their sockets, similar to the way that the metal snaps on a jacket.

Display cable connectors

Display cable connectors very often have a small metal clip that runs around the back of the socket to lock them in place. 

To separate the connector from the printed circuit board, push the tip of a spudger (also known as a spludger) under the clip. Then, swing the clip over to the other side of the socket so that it lies flat against the cable.

Holding the clip and cable together, gently pull in the direction of the cable to remove the connector carefully from its socket. Rushing the process or applying excessive force can damage the cable or connectors, so work slowly to avoid any breakage.

Bundled cable connectors

Cables that are made up of multiple, individually wrapped wires leading into a single connector are usually loosened by simply pulling on the cable itself. Pull the cable away from the connector in the same direction as the individual wires are running.

Remember to pull evenly on the full width of the cable so that no individual wires are taking unnecessary strain, which could cause them to break.

Power cable connectors

Power cable connectors, like ribbon cable connectors, have a small tab on the side that ensures they are locked in place. 

To separate the connector from its socket, squeeze the tab against the connector and pull it straight up from the socket. 

Some variants are extremely small and may break if you try to disconnect them by pulling the wires. You should try to pull on the body of the plug with tweezers, rocking it gently from side to side to ease out the release mechanism if necessary.

Soldered connections

Sometimes, when disconnecting components from a PCB, you may encounter wires that were not intended to be removed at all and are soldered into place. Use a soldering iron to easily remove these wires from the solder joints.

Soldering each connection can be a tricky process, so be sure to carry out this method carefully in order to prevent damage to the printed circuit board and connections.

Our PCB connectors

Northern Connectors stocks and distributes an extensive range of PCB connectors online.

With board-to-board connectors and printed circuit board terminal block connectors from HARTING, Souriau, and Weidmüller, we cover every type of device configuration. 

Whether it be simple and direct terminals, multi-pin rectangular systems in various sizes, or connector housings from Weidmüller’s OMNIMATE range, we’re confident that you’ll find everything you need on our website.

Find out more

If you’re still unsure how to remove PCB connectors safely or you need guidance with selecting a suitable solution for your application, Northern Connectors is here to help.

You can explore the PCB Connectors section of our website, call us on 01744 815001, or complete our online contact form, and we will be in touch as soon as possible.