D-sub miniatures, also called D-sub connectors, are small electrical connectors that are commonly used in computer communication applications. Since their inception in 1952, manufacturers value D-sub connectors for their reliability and durability.
Whether you plan to utilize a D-sub connector in your device's network, video, or other communication ports, double-check all of your design parameters before you select a connector. Let's review five critical factors that differentiate D-subminiature connectors to help you streamline your next application.
1. D-sub connector gender
Like nearly all connector types, D-sub connectors feature both male and female connector orientations. Named for their resemblance to the fourth letter of the alphabet, the "D" shape ensures orientation accuracy when you join two opposing connectors. While there are a variety of plug and receptacle configurations―and some part numbers even include both male and female counterparts―be sure to designate the proper gender orientation.
2. D-sub connector types and shell size
While there are a variety of contact configurations of D-subminiature connectors, the most common are:
- D-Sub 9 Pin
- D-Sub 15 Pin
- D-Sub 25 Pin
- D-Sub 37 Pin
- D-Sub 50 Pin
We use the letters A through E to designate standard shell sizes for D-sub connectors. VGA connectors utilize an E-sized shell with 15 IO, which contain three rows of five contacts. When you're selecting D-sub connectors, consider both the size and the required IO for your application to ensure that you meet all communication and compactness requirements.
3. D-sub terminal pitch
The pitch between a D-sub connector's terminals allows for connector compactness. For example, a high-density 100-contact D-sub connector boasts a pitch of 0.63mm between terminals. While a lower pitch limits the contacts' allowed voltage and amperage, low-power applications containing analog or digital IO may be perfectly suited for a small-pitch D-sub connector. For higher power applications, where you might need a connector to provide power to large monitors, a higher pitch D-sub may be necessary, such as a 1.27mm or 2.54mm connector.
4. D-sub connecter voltage rating
D-sub connectors come rated for a variety of voltages. Some D-sub connectors are safely rated to carry up to 1800VAC through each contact. Connectors of this capability require high terminal pitches, such as 4.45mm, which will cause an arc discharge between terminals.
5. D-sub pin orientation
Many standard D-sub connectors, such as the well-known VGA cable, feature a "straight" body orientation. A "straight" body means that the input and output align in the same direction. Right-angle body orientation styles are commonly used in PCB-mounted applications. You can find various other body orientation styles on the market as well, including custom body orientations that let you utilize the D-sub connector in a variety of applications where space constraints may be an issue.
D-sub connectors may seem limited to legacy connector assemblies, but they are still prominent in a variety of communication applications and other connector assemblies. Their design has proven versatile and effective for nearly 70 years, and they are still utilized in a variety of connector designs. Fulfill your application's needs with anywhere from 10 to 100 IO using D-sub connectors from Arrow.com.