What are PCB terminal blocks?
PCB terminal blocks enable the easy and safe transmission of signals, data, and power directly to the PCB. The space-saving connection method is suitable for numerous applications in the process industry and industrial environments.
What are terminal blocks used for and where are they used?
Terminal blocks are used to secure and/or terminate wires and, in their simplest form, consist of several individual terminals arranged in a long strip. Terminals are useful for connecting wiring to a ground or, in the case of electrical power, for connecting electrical switches and outlets to the mains.
What is a Screw Terminal Block?
As the name suggests this is a electrical connector where a wire is held by the tightening of a screw. Printed circuit board (PCB) terminal blocks are specially designed with a copper alloy pin of suitable size and length and can be inserted in printed circuit boards to be soldered to allow electrical signals and current to flow to and from PCBs and electrical equipment. Some designs provide features that allow the flow of molten solder to endure a better connection between the circuit traces of the board and the electrical equipment which is meant to be controlled or fed appropriate power.
What are Spring clamp plugs?
These are screwless terminal blocks. Screwless PCB terminal blocks are often used where high volume or quick assembly is needed. No tools are required to make connection and are particularly useful in applications using small wire diameters and limited working space.
What other termination options are there?
Screw clamps are the industry standard, with spring clamps a popular alternative. The other two options available include:
- Insulation displacement connections (IDC) push the wire between two sharp pieces of metal, allowing a connection to be made without exposing any bare wire.
- Tab connections are designed to be inserted and removed rapidly without the need for soldering. They are also known as spade or blade terminals.
What is contact pitch?
This is the distance between each contact, measuring from the centre of each hole or opening. Contact pitch is directly related to the number of contacts and is typically expressed in millimetres (mm).
Are terminal blocks safe?
Yes, if installed currently. Once you have made all the connections to the terminal block, test your equipment to make sure it works correctly. Afterward, check the terminal block and the connections to make sure that there is not excessive heat build-up and that the wires are still securely in place.
Hitaltech produce a wide range of wire to board connectors which includes a huge range of PCB terminal blocks including screwless and traditional screw block. These are all produced in a wide range of pitches and angles.