D-Sub Connectors - All you need to know

D-Sub Connectors

The D-subminiature connector, more commonly known as a D-Sub connector is a family of connectors that were introduced by Cannon in 1952 and they are still being widely used today. Although in today’s electronic marketplace technology is ever-changing and adapting to meet consumer wants and needs. Despite being over 60 years old, there are still plenty of devices using D-Sub technology that we are still reliant on. In this article, we are going to discuss what D-subs are, where they are commonly used, what they look like and their importance in today’s modern world.

What is a D-Sub Connector?

The D-sub is one of the most popular electronic connectors in the world, with many types, sizes, and applications. It is a very versatile type of electrical connector. These compact connectors take their name from their characteristic D-shaped shield. D-subs establish a connection between two points to facilitate the transfer of information or power.

D-subs were used for monitors and disk drives, now they are used for industrial and military networking, sensors and in areas where electromagnetic interference can be an issue to the device or the to the environment.

D-sub is the name given to a family of connectors, and several connectors that make up the family are Combi D-Sub Connectors, Dual-Port D-Sub Connectors, Filtered D-Sub Connectors, High-Density D-Sub Connectors, Standard D-Sub Connectors and D-Sub Hoods which will now be explained in further detail.

Dual-Port D-Sub Connectors are designed for applications that require multiple connector ports with limited “PCB” space, through the stacking of two 90° D-Sub connectors, one on top of the other. Dual Port D-Subs are available in various designs with numerous assemblies and the number contacts range from 9-37.

Standard D-Sub Connectors are high quality and robust connectors designed for the most demanding applications. They are available with different assembly parts for mounting, for example, crimp assembled,  press-fit assembled, solder cup assembled, or 90° angled solder pin.

D-Sub Hoods are designed to perfectly match Deltron AG’s range of high-quality D-Sub connectors. They are available in 9, 15, 25, 37 or 50 pin versions. The D-Sub Hoods provide optimum protection to the connector to prevent damage.

What is a D-Sub Connector used for?

D-Subs were once heavily used in home computing, printer cables, computer game controllers, external floppy disk drives, network ports and multi-channel audio recording systems but technology has advanced the need for D-subs has decreased in these areas. As previously mentioned, they are now predominantly used in industrial, aerospace, military, transportation and medical diagnostics because they are extremely rugged, small enough to fit into tight spaces, have a very long-life cycle and can withstand being exposed to harsh environments.

Due to their ability to be created in multiple variations, be environmentally sealed & locked and have EMI filtering, D-Subs are used in many industries such as aerospace, military, industrial, transportation and medical. They are commonly used in critical applications such as helicopters, combat aircraft, high-speed rail, patient monitors, ultrasound and MRI imaging.