In real hardware assemblies, PCBs rarely operate in isolation. Power, signals, and communication lines must move between boards, external modules, and system backplanes. If connections rely on loose wiring or non-standard interfaces, they can introduce signal loss, mechanical instability, and assembly variation. Over time, vibration, temperature cycling, and repeated servicing can weaken these connections. Board connectors solve this by providing a structured, repeatable electrical interface directly on the PCB.
| Image | Part Number / Manufacturer | Description / Specs | MOQ | Datasheet | RFQ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | FPDS6-W Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 6 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS6-FW Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 6 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS4-W Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 4 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS4-FW Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 4 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS3-W Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 3 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS3-FW Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 3 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS2-W Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 2 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS2-FW Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 2 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS1-W Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 1 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | FPDS1-FW Manufacturer: HellermannTyton Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | SCREWLESS DECORA 1 PORT FACEPLAT | 1 | |||
 | CFFPL2IG Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | MINI COM 2 POSITION STANDARD FUR | 1 | |||
| JOSD60000RD/N Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | JOSD60000RD/N | 1 | |||
| CHS2AL-X Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | INSERT, 2 PORT, SLOPED, OFF WHIT | 1 | |||
| CS2PAWY Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | FACEPLATE 6PORT WHITE | 1 | |||
| CFPE3IWY Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | FACEPLATE 3PORT WHITE | 1 | |||
| CFPCH3AW Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | FACEPLATE 3PORT WHITE | 1 | |||
| CBX12AW-AY Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | BOX SURFACE MOUNT 12PORT | 1 | |||
| CBEAWY Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | FACEPLATE FRAME | 1 | |||
 | CP245E88BLY Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | COUPLER PATCH PANEL, CAT 5E, FLA | 1 | |||
| CHS1SIW-X Manufacturer: Panduit Corp Category: Keystone Faceplates Frames | INSERT, 1 PORT, 1/2 SIZE, SLOPED | 1 |
Applications of Board Connectors
- Industrial automation control boards and expansion modules
- Embedded processor and carrier board connections
- Automotive electronic control units and subsystems
- Telecom and networking equipment backplane connections
- Medical electronics and diagnostic equipment
- Consumer electronics with modular PCB assemblies
- Data acquisition and signal interface modules
Key Technical Specifications
- Contact pitch and pin count
- Current and voltage rating
- Signal integrity and impedance characteristics
- Mechanical retention and locking method
- Connector mating cycle life
- Operating temperature and environmental rating
- PCB mounting style and soldering method
Types of Board Connectors
- Board-to-board connectors
- Wire-to-board connectors
- Backplane connectors
- High-speed signal board connectors
- High-current power board connectors
Lifecycle and Replacement Considerations
Board connectors are usually selected early during PCB layout and mechanical design because board spacing, signal routing, and enclosure design depend on them. When a connector reaches end-of-life, finding a drop-in replacement can be difficult. Differences in footprint, height, or pin layout may require PCB redesign and mechanical validation.
This is common in industrial automation, telecom infrastructure, and embedded computing equipment where products remain in operation for many years. Maintenance teams often require the same board connector to maintain compatibility with installed hardware without redesign.
Delays in sourcing compatible board connectors can result in production delays, increased maintenance costs, and system downtime in field deployments.
Maketronics assists global engineering and procurement teams with reliable sourcing of both active and obsolete Board Connectors.
FAQs
What are board connectors?
Board connectors are electrical connectors mounted on PCBs that enable power, signal, and data transfer between boards, cables, or system modules.
Why are board connectors important in PCB design?
They provide reliable electrical connections, improve assembly consistency, maintain signal integrity, and support modular product architecture.
Where are board connectors commonly used?
They are widely used in industrial automation, telecom equipment, automotive electronics, medical devices, and modular embedded systems.
What should be checked when replacing a board connector?
Verify footprint compatibility, pitch, height, pin layout, current rating, and mechanical locking features to ensure a proper fit and reliable performance.