What are spring connectors?

Spring connectors, also known as spring-loaded connectors or pogo pins, are electrical connectors that use spring-loaded contacts to establish a temporary electrical connection. These connectors are commonly used in applications where repeated connections and disconnections are required, such as in battery charging docks, test fixtures, and electronic devices with removable modules.

Spring connectors consist of a housing or receptacle containing one or more spring-loaded pins or contacts. When a mating connector or contact is inserted into the housing, the spring-loaded pins compress and make contact with the mating connector, establishing an electrical connection. When the mating connector is removed, the spring-loaded pins return to their original position, breaking the electrical connection.

The typical cable used with spring connectors depends on the specific application and design requirements. Here are some examples of typical cables used with spring connectors and their applications:

1. Flexible Ribbon Cable:
   • Applications: Used in compact electronic devices where space is limited and a low-profile connection is required, such as in laptops and smartphones.
   • Description: These cables consist of multiple conductors arranged in a flat, ribbon-like form, making them suitable for applications where flexibility and compactness are important.
2. Flexible PCB Cable:
   • Applications: Commonly found in cameras, foldable phones, and other electronic devices with movable or detachable components.
   • Description: Thin, lightweight, and flexible cables used in applications where a flexible connection is needed between circuit boards or components.
3. Coaxial Cable:
   • Applications: Used in RF and high-frequency applications, such as test fixtures, RF test equipment, and wireless communication devices.
   • Description: These cables consist of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a conductive shield, and an outer insulating jacket, providing reliable electrical connections.
4. Multiconductor Cable:
   • Applications: Suitable for connecting multiple signals or power lines in applications like industrial control systems and medical devices.
   • Description: Flexible insulation and stranded conductors are used in various configurations, including twisted pairs, shielded cables, and flat ribbon cables, to accommodate different signal and power requirements.

No, spring connectors are typically used for short-distance connections within electronic devices or between circuit boards. They are not generally used for long cable runs due to their design, which is optimised for temporary connections and low-profile applications.

Spring connectors are designed to support various wireless communication standards and operate within specific frequency bands:

• Frequency Bands: Spring connectors can be used in applications operating in frequency bands ranging from DC to several GHz, depending on the cable type and application requirements.
• Typical Resistance: The typical resistance of cables used with spring connectors is around 50 ohms for coaxial cables.
• Voltage Levels: Spring connectors can handle various voltage levels, commonly up to 30V to 100V DC, depending on the application.

Spring connectors are crucial for applications requiring quick, reliable connections and disconnections. Their spring-loaded design ensures consistent contact pressure, providing reliable electrical connections even in environments subject to vibration and movement.

Spring connectors offer several advantages:

• Ease of Use: Quick, tool-free connections and disconnections.
• Durability: Designed for repeated connections without degradation in performance.
• Compact Design: Ideal for applications where space is limited.
• Versatility: Compatible with various cable types and electrical signaling protocols.

By understanding these aspects of spring connectors, users can make informed decisions about their application in various electronic devices, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.