PCB card edge connector/contact is an electronic component whose function is to connect and stabilise various components on a circuit board, especially important in those highly integrated and component-dense electronic devices. It is generally assembled on the edge of the circuit board, with the help of snap-fastening or soldering technology and another circuit board or component connection, in order to complete the transfer of signals and electrical energy tasks.
The working principle of the pcb card edge connector is relatively simple, when the expansion card is inserted into the connector slot, its edge of the conductive traces and the connector contacts aligned and contact, so as to achieve electrical connection. This type of connection is fast, convenient and reliable.
Features and Benefits
Convenient Connection:PCB card edge connector quickly connects expansion cards to the motherboard, eliminating the need for cumbersome wiring or soldering steps.
Highly Reliable:With the close fit between the contacts and the conductive path, the pcb card edge connector shows excellent connection stability and guarantees the consistency of data transmission.
Easy maintenance:When an expansion card becomes defective or needs to be upgraded, it can be easily pulled out and replaced with a new card without disassembling the entire circuit board, greatly simplifying the maintenance process.
Widely compatible:pcb card edge connector can be adapted to a variety of types of expansion cards, including graphics cards, network cards, memory modules, etc., reflecting the strong versatility and flexibility.
Classification of pcb card edge connector:
PCI edge connectors
These connectors are designed for computers and are used to connect expansion cards such as graphics cards and network cards to the motherboard. They are equipped with multiple metal contacts and are designed to transfer data and power efficiently.
SIM Card Edge Connectors
These connectors are used in mobile phones to secure the SIM card and establish a connection. They play a central role in the transmission of user identity information and data in mobile communication networks.
Mobile Phone Battery Connectors
Designed for mobile phone batteries, these connectors ensure a stable and reliable power interface between the battery and its circuit board, as well as a strong edge connection.
Printer Interface Connectors
These connectors are used to connect a printhead or circuit board to a slot in a printer. They are equipped with multiple contacts and are designed to handle the independent transmission of print data and power signals.
Display Interface Connectors
Used to connect a monitor’s circuit board to a video source such as a computer graphics card. Common types cover VGA (Video Graphics Array), DVI (Digital Video Interface), HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), and DisplayPort.
Embedded System Connectors
Widely used in all kinds of embedded systems, such as industrial control equipment, automation devices, medical equipment, etc., for internal circuit board connection.
PCB card edge connector/contacts are widely used in many electronic devices, covering but not limited to the following categories:
Communication devices: such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc., for the motherboard and the connection of each interface.
Consumer electronics: such as televisions, audio equipment, video cameras, etc., to achieve the control board and a variety of functional modules connected.
Industrial automation control: such as PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), CNC machine tools, etc., used to connect the control unit with the execution device.
Automotive electronic systems: such as in-vehicle entertainment devices, ECU (engine control unit), etc., for the connection of various sensors and actuators.
Medical devices: e.g. X-ray machines, CT scanners, etc., for the connection of electronic modules to sensors.
Aerospace: to ensure the connection between avionics equipment and guarantee the reliability and stability of signal transmission.
When choosing the right PCB card edge connector, the following key factors need to be considered:
Application requirements: Determine the type of connector based on the specific purpose of use (e.g., data transmission requirements or power access requirements).
Contact performance: Connectors with excellent contact quality should be selected to ensure the reliability of signal transmission and prolong service life.
Mechanical construction: Choose connectors with robust housings and precise alignment mechanisms to ensure a secure and stable connection.
Compliance: It is important to ensure that connectors comply with relevant industry regulations (e.g. RoHS directive) to maintain safety of use and environmental sustainability.
The role of PCB card edge connector in electronic architecture:
Interface access: They create easy access ports that enable the PCB to make electrical connections to external components or systems, thus simplifying the electrical interconnection process.
Modular Expandability: These connectors support modular upgrades by adding new modules or cards to enhance system functionality.
Signal flow: They guarantee the smooth transmission of digital, analogue and power signals between the PCB and the connected equipment, which is essential for the smooth operation of the system.
Physical support: In addition to their electrical connection function, they provide solid physical support for the PCB, reducing the risk of disconnection or damage due to vibration or physical stress.
PCB card edge connector/contacts as an indispensable part of electronic equipment, not only bear the important responsibility of connecting and stabilising the circuit board components, but also to achieve the expansion of equipment functions, efficient signal transmission and the key to physical support. With the continuous development of science and technology, the integration of electronic equipment is increasing, the PCB card edge connector requirements are more and more stringent. Therefore, in the selection and application of these connectors, the need to comprehensively consider the convenience, reliability, compatibility and the importance of compliance with industry norms to ensure that electronic equipment can continue to operate stably.
