Connectors and terminals are both used to connect electrical or electronic components. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Connector
A connector is a device that allows two or more electrical or electronic components to be connected together. Connectors are typically made of metal, plastic, or both.
Connectors come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they are used in a variety of applications. Some common types of connectors include:
Coaxial connectors are used to connect coaxial cables, such as those used for television and networking.
Twist-on connectors are used to connect electrical wires, such as those used in household wiring.
Solderless connectors are used to connect electrical wires without the need for soldering.
Terminal
A terminal is a device that is used to connect a wire or cable to a larger electrical or electronic component. Terminals are typically made of metal, and they are often crimped or soldered to the wire or cable.
Terminals come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they are used in a variety of applications. Some common types of terminals include:
Ring terminals are used to connect wires to terminal blocks.
Spade terminals are used to connect wires to circuit boards.
Bullet terminals are used to connect wires to batteries.
Differences between connectors and terminals
The main difference between connectors and terminals is that connectors allow two or more components to be connected together, while terminals allow a wire or cable to be connected to a larger component.
Connectors are typically used to connect components that are not permanently attached to each other, such as components in a circuit board. Terminals are typically used to connect components that are permanently attached to each other, such as wires to a circuit board.
