DC POWER Connector

DC Power Connectors - Barrel Plugs & Jacks

DC power connectors or "DC plugs and jacks" are a standardized type of connector that is not interchangeable. This type of connector was developed to prevent incompatible power sources from being used and damaging or destroying sensitive electronic equipment. The cylindrical type of connectors are generally called "coaxial connectors" or "barrel connectors". When describing the size of a DC POWER Connector it is common to specify the outside diameter (O.D), the inside diameter (I.D) and the length of the barrel of the metal plug. The voltage specified is generally less than 48V but typically 12V and the current is less than 5 Amps, typically around 2 Amps.

Antenk`s comprehensive line of dc power connectors offers a wide range of jacks, power DIN, plugs, and receptacles perfectly suited to supply dc power to a variety of consumer, household, and portable electronic applications. Our dc connectors and barrel power connectors feature current ratings up to 10 A, center pin diameters ranging from 0.5 mm to 3 mm and small package sizes with heights as low as 3 mm and widths as small as 4.2 mm. Dc connectors with shielding and internal switches are also available while options for cable, mid mount SMT, panel mount, spring contact, surface mount and through hole mounting styles offer design flexibility.

DC Power Connectors Types
1.3mm X 3.5mm Coax Plug-9mm Length Shaft
1.3mm X 3.5mm Coax Jack PCB
2.5mm X 5.5mm Right-Angle PCB DC Power Jack
2.5mm X 5.5mm PCB Power Jack
2.5mm X 5.5mm X 8.25mm Barrel Plug
2.0mm X 5.5mm In-Line DC Coax Plug
2.0mm X 5.5mm Switched DC Power Jack
2.1mm X 5.5mm DC Power Plug
2.1mm X 5.5mm Bulkhead Power Jack

DC Power Plugs
What is a DC Power plug?
The DC Power Plug is designed to supply direct current from a mains connection to a device, and is typically used to power small to medium appliances. Although there are various types of DC Connector, the most common type is sometimes referred to as a Barrel Connector. This style of connector features an insulated cylindrical tip, sometimes called a sleeve, or ring, which accepts a pin from the socket counterpart. This design ensures a safe and secure connection, with a smooth disconnect and connect action. DC connectors have many more standard types that are not interchangeable. The dimensions and arrangement of DC connectors can be chosen to prevent accidental interconnection of incompatible sources and loads.

DC Jacks
The standard dc barrel plug or jack has two conductors, one each for power and ground. Convention is for the center pin to be power and the outer sleeve to be ground, but reversing the connections is acceptable. Some power jack models include a third conductor which forms a switch with the outer sleeve conductor. One use of the switch function is to detect or indicate the insertion of a plug. Another use of the switch function is to select between power sources dependent upon whether a plug is or is not inserted into the jack.

DC Jacks Applications
Though USB powered devices are more and more common, DC power plugs are still a serviceable standard in powering smaller appliances. They can typically be used with certain portable computers, electronic instruments and sound systems.

DC Power Sockets
The DC Power Socket is typically embedded in small to medium electronic appliances, and is designed accept direct current from a DC plug connected to a mains supply. There are various types of DC Connector, with the most common being referred to as a Barrel Connector or Tip Connector. DC Power Sockets feature a pin that inserts securely into the corresponding plugs insulated cylindrical tip. This design ensures a safe and secure connection, with a smooth disconnect and connect action.