Sean Fitall, positronic product manager at electrical connector specialist PEI-Genesis, discusses the versatility of D-Sub connectors and explains why they remain the best connector for the job in many challenging applications.
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Closeup of DVI-D and D-SUB monitor port
D-Subminiature electrical connectors, commonly known as D-Subs, have been around for decades, and are often used in everything from military, space, commercial aerospace, medical, industrial and transport applications. Because of their versatility, many engineers often misjudge D-Sub connectors, dismissing them as a jack of all trades and master of none.
For roughly 70 years D-Sub connectors have been used in most applications where electrical connectors are required, from aerospace, communications and defence to industrial, transport, medical and consumer electronics. Notably, D-Sub connectors are even used in space applications as they are so reliable in extreme conditions. So, what is it that makes D-Subs so appealing across so many industrial sectors?
D-Sub design considerations
D-Sub electrical connectors can transmit data, power, and radio frequency signals and, thanks to the characteristic D shape of their shells, are simple to use. Unlike other connector models such as USB-A, they cannot accidently be plugged in the wrong way around.
The metal shell also adds a robust housing for the rows of contacts inside while providing shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can be further improved by adding a dedicated backshell. This is particularly useful as EMI remains a major concern for engineers in many applications, especially those where signal integrity is crucial to ongoing operations, such as mission-critical military and aerospace applications.
For applications subject to ongoing or excessive vibrations that could cause accidental disconnects, D-Subs come equipped with mounting options such as jack screws, slide locks and spring latch systems. This ensures connections remain secure even in the most challenging environments.
Many people wrongly assume that because D-Subs have been in use for so long that they are outdated when, in fact, their longevity is actually a strength. Generally, D-Sub connectors are low-cost solutions that are easy to install and almost certainly compatible with your existing equipment, whether it be in a commercial environment or the harshest of industrial environments.
