What is a connector?

A connector is a device that terminates segments of cabling or provides a point of entry for networking devices such as computers, routers, and hubs. Invented in the early 1950s, Francois Bonhomme first introduced hyperboloid contacts with his "Hypertac" connector. 

Connectors include extraction, removal and insertion tools. They can be made of different materials, including brass, copper, aluminium, bronze, electrolytic copper, and tin-plated aluminium.

What are the common types of connectors?

Connectors can be differentiated according to their physical appearance and mating properties. There are both male connectors, including jacks and plugs, and female connectors, including sockets and ports. Some different types of connectors include:

• AC Connectors
• DC Connectors
• Wire Connectors
• Blade Connectors
• Plug and Socket Connectors
• Ethernet Connectors
• Board to Board & Mezzanine Connectors
• Backplane Connectors
• FFC & FPC Connectors
• MIL Spec Connectors
• Circular Connectors
• AV Connectors
• Power Connectors

What are common materials used for connectors?

Connectors are made out of copper alloys, offering good conductivity and malleability. Other alternatives include brass, phosphor bronze, and beryllium copper. The electrode metal is coated with another inert metal such as:

• Gold
• Nickel
• Tin

Where are connectors used?

Connectors are used to join subsections of circuits together. Generally, it is used when a subsection needs to be disconnected in future time. Commonly it is seen in printed circuit boards. 

What are the industrial applications of connectors?

Connectors have a wide range of industrial applications such as:

• Medical
• Machine manufacturing
• Welding
• Sensors
• Lighting
• Process control
• Automation