Electrical Testers Current Probes

Applications of PCB Connectors

• Industrial automation control boards and interface modules
• Automotive electronic control units and wiring harness interfaces
• Consumer electronics and embedded device PCB connections
• Telecom and networking hardware signal and power routing
• Medical electronics and diagnostic equipment interconnections
• Power supply input and output PCB interfaces
• Test and measurement equipment internal connections

Key Technical Specifications

• Current rating and voltage rating
• Contact material and plating type
• Pitch size and pin density
• Mechanical retention and locking mechanism
• Operating temperature range
• Mating cycle life rating
• Mounting style such as through-hole or surface mount

Types of PCB Connectors

• Wire-to-board PCB connectors
• Board-to-board PCB connectors
• Power PCB connectors
• High-speed signal PCB connectors
• Rugged industrial PCB connectors

Lifecycle and Replacement Considerations

PCB connectors are typically selected during PCB layout and mechanical design phases. Pad layout, mechanical clearances, cable routing, and enclosure design often depend on connector choice. When a PCB connector reaches end-of-life, finding a drop-in replacement may not always be simple. Differences in footprint, height, locking style, or contact plating can affect both mechanical fit and electrical performance.

This is common in industrial control systems, medical devices, and telecom hardware, where products are deployed for long service life. Maintenance teams often require the same connector model to avoid PCB redesign and recertification testing.

Delays in sourcing compatible PCB connectors can lead to production delays, service downtime, and increased field maintenance cost.

Maketronics assists global engineering and procurement teams with reliable sourcing of both active and obsolete PCB Connectors.