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- December 6, 2022
- PCB knowledge
- (0)
- 06 mins
PCB terminal block – an in-depth guide to know everything
Are you in a fix about the wire connection in PCB?
The incorporation of a PCB terminal block in the circuit board improves the functionality and reliability of the circuit to a large extent.
This article will be a great source to dig deeper into its use, working principle, special features, and so on.
Let’s make a move.
What is a PCB terminal block?
The PCB terminal block is a connector that establishes a secure wire connection from the external side of a circuit board. Mounted on the PCB, terminal blocks ensure reliability in the wire connection of electronic components.
Usually, copper alloys are must-have materials inside a PCB terminal box. Manufacturers use high-grade polymers to cover these alloys. As these blocks consume little space and are a useful element in data transmission systems, they are very common in modern electronic circuits.
What is the purpose of PCB terminal blocks?
The principal purposes of using PCB terminal blocks include-
●Terminal blocks contain copper alloys that have a similar CTE (Coefficient of Thermal Expansion) to the wires. That’s why these blocks are highly effective in high temperatures.
●SMD components with terminal boxes create a common point to receive equal charges.
●PCB mount blocks improve the functionality of multilayer applications through their various structures.
●Terminal blocks save almost 50% of space on the PCB surface.
●These blocks ensure safety and longevity in wire connections.
●Terminal blocks are easier to set on the circuit board compared to other options.
What is standard for PCB terminal block?
PCB terminal blocks are manufactured in such a way that the blocks can fulfill the UL94 and IEC standards. Usually, PCB mount terminal blocks with a V-O rating in the UL94 standards are highly preferable in terms of flammability.
What are the types of PCB terminal blocks?
PCB terminal blocks can be classified into different categories based on two standards. They are-
Structure-based types
In this section, you can find three types of PCB terminal blocks. Let’s look at a glimpse of these types.
Single feed through terminal block
This PCB terminal block has a specific use in wire-to-wire connections. Being a basic terminal block for an electronic circuit board, it holds an input and output, along with joining two wires from separate sides as input and output.
Dual-level terminal block
As per the name, this type of structure-based terminal block holds wires on two levels. Usually, dual-level terminal blocks act as a link between external devices that come with various levels of wires.
Besides, the wire connection is comparatively simpler in this case than that of a single feed through terminal blocks. Because of their space-saving feature, manufacturers prefer dual-level blocks in modern electronic devices.
Three-level terminal block
It comes with an additional stack of blocks compared to a dual-level terminal. Except for this issue, both of these two have almost the same configuration and working procedure. As three-level blocks offer an extra level of connections, you can use them as bridges in complicated circuits.
Device-based types
In terms of device, you can classify PCB terminal blocks into the following groups-
Ground circuit terminal block
It helps ground the external and internal devices placed on the circuit boards.
Power distribution block
It usually makes a detachment between power lines and devices.
Fuse holder block
This kind of terminal block connects all fuses. Fuse holder blocks are a feasible solution to the short circuit problem.
Thermocouple block
It checks and controls the temperature with a safe metallic connection.
Sensor block
Sensor terminal blocks handle wire devices having photoelectric and proximity sensors.
Input/output block
I/O PCB terminal blocks act as the secure joints between the controller and devices.
Disconnect/switch block
It is used to disconnect a connection.
What are the features of PCB terminal blocks?
The most noteworthy features of a PCB terminal block include the followings-
Easy access
PCB mount terminal blocks are easily accessible. They allow you to disconnect or break a connection without testing, unwiring, or intense maintenance.
Space saving
Terminal blocks on PCB can be installed and stacked very close to each other. This feature helps free the PCB surface for component placement.
Reliability
These blocks ensure security for wire bonding. Moreover, terminal blocks are useful to prevent oxidation in dense conditions. That’s why you can rely on PCB mount terminal blocks to keep the circuit board wires durable.
Compatible with LED
The LED compatibility keeps the terminal blocks visible when electricity flow stops through the PCB components.
How does a PCB terminal block work?
PCB terminal blocks, made of non-conductive plastic materials, direct the current through the insulated body. These blocks permit the manufacturer to place the connection wires adjacently so that the wires can function simultaneously in the same place.
As terminal blocks control and route the flow of electricity in a manageable way, there is no risk in handling high power from the same source. That means the working principle of PCB mount terminal blocks is undoubtedly safe and effective.
Where are PCB terminal blocks used?
PCB mount terminal blocks are extensively used in the industrial and communication sectors. You can also find them in control panels, which are another common sector of terminal blocks. Let’s have a look at some notable applications of PCB mount terminal blocks.
- Control panels
- Electrical substations
- Refrigerator control system
- Blowers
- Automobiles
- Industrial machinery
- LED-based devices
- Frequency drivers
- Power distribution
An important thing, select which type of terminal you need to use before using it. Some terminal blocks are not always compatible with all devices. So, focus on the available devices and their accessibility while using a PCB terminal block.
How to select a PCB terminal block?
Choosing the right PCB mount terminal block is very crucial in PCB manufacturing and assembly services. You need to keep in mind some factors that affect the terminal block’s performance a lot. Such as:
Current rating
Usually, the proper current rating of a terminal block should be 50% more than the maximum current that the block experiences. Improper distribution of current through the PCB terminal block can cause severe failure of PCB components. That’s why you need to determine the optimum current rating of PCB mount terminal blocks before choosing them.
Voltage rating
Just like the current rating, you must consider the voltage rating while making your choice.
Mechanical strength
It is obligatory to select a terminal block that is mechanically strong enough to handle extreme stresses.
Types of wire
It will be useful for you to use a terminal block that is compatible with the wires and wire orientation that you are using for connections.
Application
Based on the applications, you have to choose the most appropriate terminal block because all of them are not accessible on all devices.
Pole count
This is also a crucial thing to consider. It refers to the number of circuits that go through the terminal blocks.
The PCB terminal block is a connector that establishes a secure wire connection from the external side of the circuit board. Mounted on the PCB, terminal blocks ensure reliability in the wire connection of electronic components.
PCB terminal blocks are manufactured in such a way that the blocks can fulfill the UL94 and IEC standards. Usually, PCB mount terminal blocks with a V-O rating in the UL94 standards are highly preferable in terms of flammability.
- Easy access
- Space saving
- Reliability
- Compatible with LED
Conclusion
IBE is a well-known manufacturer and assembly service provider of different PCBs, including PCB terminal blocks. Get in touch with us to upgrade your device quality to the next level.
