Automotive electrical connectors are required to be rugged and reliable. They are usually placed in parts of a vehicle that are open to the elements, so they must protect against moisture and dust ingress. Automotive Connectors also have a good amount of heat resistance. As more movements and vibrations are experienced in vehicles, a secure locking mechanism will be built into the plug and socket to prevent any unwanted disconnections.
Types of Automotive Connectors
Terminals are utilized to provide a connection to printed circuit boards. With wire terminals, there will be no need for soldering.
Board-to-board connectors
These connect two printed circuit boards.
Wire-to-wire Connectors
These are used to connect to already terminated wires, for example, a crimp termination with a ring terminal.
Connector Housings
You can use connector housings to protect and surround connections between wires, connectors, and PCBs. They can protect you from various elements or may have a secondary locking mechanism.
General Automotive Connectors
It can be used in power and battery applications, such as cigarette lighters or caravanning.
Insulated Connectors
Insulated connectors are available in various sizes and types that can be either straight or flared towards the ends. Therefore, ensuring that this connector has the insulation OD of the gauge and wire is essential.
Non-Insulated connectors
Non-Insulated connectors have no insulation. Therefore, they are crimped and usually insulated with heat shrink tubing utilizing a skating-type tool.
Seamless Connectors
Seamless connectors are commonly cut from round stock, which makes them appear like tubes.
Seam-Type Connectors
Seam-Type connectors are electrical connectors that are cut from flat stock. They are then rolled like a tube and feature a seam that goes throughout the length of the connection.
Applications
Automotive connectors are used in a wide range of applications. This includes making protective cable-to-cable connections or offering many sockets from a single traditional cigarette.