Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-08-15 Origin: Site
Circular connectors are a mainstay in every market. They are durable, reliable, and available in a wide variety of sizes, materials, and form factors. This product category is highly diverse, offering suitable options for many use cases and environments, but they are all very simply defined by their cylindrical shell shape and circular mating surface. During mating, the two sides of the mating pair are pushed together, connecting via pins on one side and sockets on the other.
The five primary coupling types for circular connectors are bayonet, threaded, push-pull, snap-on, and screw-on couplings. "Coupling type" refers to the method by which the two halves of a mating pair are secured. Circular connectors are used to connect devices to cables or to connect two devices. Each coupling type offers specific advantages to the user and application. When specifying a circular connector, choosing the correct coupling type depends on the application's operating environment, power requirements, signal type, user access and skill level, and other factors. Each coupling type offers unique advantages.
A bayonet connector has a plug on one side and a receptacle on the other. This type of coupler uses a rotating mechanism to lock the connector into place. Bayonet coupling is known for its reliability, ease of use, and high durability. It is often used in harsh environments subject to vibration and shock.
A variant, the reverse bayonet connector, was originally designed for NATO combat vehicles. Reverse bayonet connectors require 120° of rotation to mate, enabling quick and easy mating and unmating. Their design also allows users to confirm mating in three different ways: tactile, audible, and visual. When mated, the user feels the connector lock into place. When the coupling nut is fully engaged, a loud click is heard as the three studs snap into place.
Tool:Bayonet-style coupling connectors typically require no special tools
(Mouser Electronics Glenair's 80 Series Mighty Mouse Connector features a bayonet coupling mechanism.)
This type of coupler uses a threaded mechanism to secure the connector in place. Threaded couplings are known for their high reliability and vibration resistance. They are often used in applications that require a high degree of protection from environmental factors.
Tool: No special tools required; connections are made by hand
(Amphenol Aerospace's MIL-DTL-38999 uses a threaded coupling mechanism)
Push-pull couplings use a simple push-pull mechanism to lock the connector into place. The connection is released by squeezing the connector body or pulling back on the outer sleeve to unlock the pair. This type of coupling is commonly used in medical devices, sensors, and instrumentation applications. It is easy to use and prevents accidental disconnection in busy operating environments such as clinical settings.
Tool: Push-pull self-locking coupling connectors usually do not require any special tools
(LEMO invented the push-pull, self-locking connector design in the 1950s. LEMO circular connectors, including IP-rated versions (available from Mouser Electronics), are widely used in medical applications.)
The snap-on coupling uses a simple snap-on mechanism to secure the connector in place and the connection is separated by pulling the connector. This type of coupling is often used in applications where space is limited. It is known for its ease of use.
Tool: No special tools required; connections are made by hand
(Radiall's snap-on SMB connector)
The screw-in connector uses a thread mechanism to secure the connector in place. This type of coupling is commonly used in audio and video applications, such as RCA connectors. It is known for its high reliability and ease of use.
Tool: This type of connection is usually made by hand, but in some applications a torque screwdriver is used to tighten the connection to the specified torque specification.
(RS's Bulgin's Buccaneer in-line connector features a screw-on locking mechanism)
Markets, Industries, and Applications
Circular connectors have found their way into numerous industries and become an indispensable component in a wide range of applications.
In the industrial sector, they are ubiquitous. From power and signal transmission in large-scale manufacturing equipment to connecting sensors and actuators in factory automation systems, circular connectors ensure seamless operation. In the transportation sector, they are used in vehicles, trains, and even aircraft, where secure and reliable connections are essential.
The telecommunications industry also relies heavily on circular connectors. They transmit data between different network devices, ensuring fast and reliable communication. In the aerospace and defense sector, circular connectors are designed to withstand extreme conditions, making them ideal for use in satellites, military aircraft, and other high-tech equipment.
Even in the medical field, circular connectors play a vital role. They are used in electronic medical devices to ensure that cables remain connected during patient movement and treatment, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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