Feature

Why contacts are crucial to connector functionality

Connectors are vital in facilitating seamless communication and power transmission in various devices and systems. At the heart of these connectors lie their often-overlooked components: contacts. These small but critical elements ensure the reliability, efficiency and durability of connectors across industries. Here, John Embleton, Customer Application Engineer at PEI-Genesis, delves into why contacts are indispensable to connector functionality.

07/10/2024 12:11:48

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Contacts are metallic conductive elements in connectors that establish electrical and mechanical connections between mating
connector pairs. They come in various shapes, sizes and materials, each tailored to meet specific application
requirements. Contacts are typically housed in connector housings and engage with their counterparts during mating,
forming an electrical pathway for signals, power, or RF transmission.

Ensuring electrical integrity
One of the
primary functions of contacts is to maintain a connector’s electrical integrity.

Read the full article in DPA's October 2024 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.