5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Idc Connector Types？

Author: Alice

Jun. 23, 2025

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Exploring 5 Types of Cable Assemblies You Might Require

Getting your product to market fast and staying within budget is the obvious goal for all new development projects. Many of these projects require some sort of assembled circuit board, battery, or touchscreen, and therefore they all will need some type of custom electrical cable or wire harness.

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Choosing a readily available wire harness is especially important early in projects where designs change rapidly and three or four revisions may be necessary to launch production. Cable assembly types such as D-sub, USB-C, and circular connectors offer high performance at low cost. Spade terminals, ring terminals, and IDC cables paired with ribbon cables are simpler options for higher voltages and power circuits. Collectively, the odds are that these five cable types can help solve most of your cable needs for any new design project.

D-Subminiature Connector Cable

A D-subminiature connector is a type of electrical connector commonly used in computer and telecommunications applications. It was originally designed as a smaller, more compact alternative to the larger D-type connector and has since become a standard for many electronic devices. D-sub connectors come in a variety of sizes and pin configurations, making them versatile and adaptable to many different applications. They are important because they provide a reliable and secure means of connecting electronic components, while also being compact and easy to use.

Thumbscrews are used in tandem with many d-sub connectors to securely fasten two components together. It is designed to ensure that the components remain securely connected, even under harsh conditions such as vibrations or shock. The thumbscrew is typically made of metal and has a knurled surface to make it easy to grip and turn by hand. The threaded shaft of the thumbscrew is inserted through a hole in one component and then screwed into a threaded hole on the other component, thereby securing the two components together.

Example of D-sub cable with thumbscrews.

D-sub cables are a low-cost solution for high-density connectors because they are relatively easy to manufacture and are widely available in a range of pin counts and configurations. The cables are typically made with a shielded wire to prevent electrical interference and ensure reliable signal transmission.

One of the key advantages of using D-sub cables is their low cost compared to other high-density connector solutions. They are relatively easy to manufacture and are widely available. Using D-sub cables with thumbscrew locking mechanisms can be a low-cost solution with zero NRE (non-recurring engineering) cost if you already have the necessary tools available in your home or workplace.

D-sub cables and connectors are available in a variety of pin counts and arrangements; the most common configurations are the 9-pin, 15-pin, 25-pin, and 37-pin configurations. However, D-sub connectors are also available in higher-density configurations, such as the 50-pin, 68-pin, and 78-pin configurations. These higher-density connectors are used in more complex electronic systems where a large number of pins are required.

USB-C Connector

USB-C connector is a type of connector that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its versatility and compatibility with a wide range of devices. First introduced in , they are designed to be smaller, more compact, and more reversible than traditional USB connectors.

One of the main advantages of USB-C connectors is their ability to transfer data at high speeds, with some cables supporting data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps. This makes them ideal for transferring large files, such as high-resolution videos and images, quickly and efficiently.

Example of USB-C connector cable.

In addition to data transfer, they are also capable of delivering power to devices. This means that they can be used to charge smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices, which has made them a popular choice for consumers looking for a single cable that can do it all.

Another key advantage is their ability to support a range of protocols and standards, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt. This means that a single USB-C cable can be used to connect a laptop to an external monitor, transfer data to an external hard drive, and charge a smartphone all at the same time.

There are several benefits of using a USB-C connector, including:

Versatility: A single USB-C cable can be used to charge a smartphone, transfer data to an external hard drive, and connect a laptop to an external monitor.
High-speed data transfer: Some cables support data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps. This makes them ideal for transferring large files quickly and efficiently.
Reversible design: They can be plugged in upside down or right-side up. This makes them easier to use and more convenient for consumers.
Power delivery: They can be used to charge smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices. This has made them a popular choice for consumers looking for a single cable that can do it all.
Compatibility with multiple protocols: USB-C connectors are designed to be compatible with multiple protocols and standards, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt. A single USB-C cable can be used to connect a laptop to an external monitor, transfer data to an external hard drive, and charge a smartphone all at the same time.

Spade and Ring Terminal Wire Harnesses

Spade and ring terminal harnesses are a type of electrical harness that is commonly used in a variety of industrial and automotive applications. The spade terminals are flat and have a small hole in the center, while the ring terminals are circular and have a hole in the center that can be crimped onto a stud or bolt.

Example of ring terminal wire harness.

One of the main advantages is their versatility. They can be used to connect a wide range of electrical components, including switches, relays, and motors, to power sources and other electrical components. Additionally, they are easy to install and can be quickly and easily connected to the desired components using standard crimping tools. They are also durable and can withstand harsh environments, making them ideal for use in industrial and automotive applications.

Another advantage of spade and ring terminal harnesses is their ability to simplify wiring and reduce installation time. By using pre-terminated harnesses, installers can save time and reduce the risk of wiring errors, which can help to improve overall system reliability and reduce costs.

Benefits of using spade and ring terminal wire harnesses:

Ease of installation: Spade and ring terminal harnesses are easy to install, even for those with little experience in wiring or electrical work. The terminals can be quickly and easily connected to the desired components using standard crimping tools or by hand.
Time-savings: Because spade and ring terminal harnesses are pre-terminated, they can save installers significant time and reduce the risk of wiring errors. This can help to improve overall system reliability and reduce costs associated with installation and maintenance.
Versatility: Spade and ring terminal harnesses are made with readily available components and are able to be used with a wide range of wire AWG sizes. These are rarely the cause of major schedule delays because they are almost always available.

IDC Ribbon Cables

IDC (Insulation Displacement Connector) with ribbon cable is a type of electrical connector that is commonly box builds, computers, and consumer electronics. An IDC with ribbon cable consists of a flat multiconductor cable that has an IDC connector that is designed to pierce through the insulation and contact the conductors. The connector has a series of sharp blades that pierce through the insulation and create an electrical connection between each pin and wire.

Example of IDC ribbon cables.

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One of the main advantages of IDC ribbon cables is their ease of use and low cost. The IDC connector can be quickly and easily attached to the ribbon cable using standard crimping tools, without the need for stripping or soldering. This makes it a popular choice for mass-produced electronic products.

Another advantage is their high density. Because the conductors are arranged in a flat ribbon, they can accommodate a large number of conductors in a small space.

IDC with ribbon cable is an important component in many electronic systems. As an engineer, it is important to understand their design and application to ensure that they are properly integrated into electronic systems and provide reliable performance over the long term.

Waterproof Circular Connector Cable

Waterproof circular connector cables are designed to provide reliable and secure connections in harsh environments where water, dust, and other contaminants may pose a risk to the performance of electrical systems. These connectors are commonly used in applications such as aerospace, marine, military, and industrial systems where ruggedness and durability are essential.

Waterproof circular connector cables come in a variety of sizes and configurations to accommodate different wire gauges and types, and they are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic that are resistant to corrosion and abrasion.

Example of waterproof circular connectors.

One of the key features of waterproof circular connector cables is their ability to maintain a watertight seal even when subjected to high-pressure water and other contaminants. This is achieved through the use of advanced sealing technologies such as O-rings, gaskets, and silicone seals that prevent water and other contaminants from entering the connector and causing damage to the electrical system.

These cables also offer easy installation and maintenance and are typically designed with a simple plug-and-play interface that makes it easy to connect and disconnect them from the electrical system. This is particularly important in applications where frequent maintenance and repair are required.

Summary

With all the cable and connector options out there, it can feel overwhelming to choose the best option. Since all a cable is doing is passing power or data, the truth is that there are many options that will work for the job. Starting out with a low-cost and highly reliable connector type can help quickly flush out designs and accelerate timelines. If you plan on making several design iterations with inexpensive parts, use one of these five cable assembly types to save your project time and money.

IDC vs. Crimp Termination: Which is Best for Your Cable Assembly?

Which Termination Is Best, IDC or Crimp?

Connectors are the often-overlooked but indispensable components that facilitate communication and connectivity in a wide range of applications, from telecommunications systems to the intricate circuitry of our everyday electronics. Selecting the right termination method is a decision that can profoundly impact the efficiency of a project. In this article, we explore the ongoing debate between IDC and crimp connectors, two widely recognized choices in the industry. We will examine their strengths, weaknesses, and real-world applications to help you make informed decisions and ensure a robust and reliable wire-harnessing process connected to your project.

IDC Connectors: Revolutionizing Connectivity

IDC connectors have emerged as the virtuosos of a seamless connection to the conductors. The attributes include:

Effortless Connection: IDC, short for Insulation-Displacement Connectors (or insulation-piercing contacts), are designed for an easy connection process to insulated cables. These connector(s) feature specially sharpened blades that puncture the insulation on the conductor(s), eliminating the need to strip insulation prior to connecting.
Cold-Welding Reliability: When properly employed, these create a theoretically reliable gas-tight connection as the connector blade cold-welds to the conductor. These ensure a secure and durable wire connection.
Pitch Variety: IDC cable assemblies are available in different pitches, including 1.27 mm, 2.00 mm, and 2.54 mm. Most of these connectors are double-row, offering versatility in your wire connectivity options.
Time and Cost Savings: IDC is known for its efficiency in manufacturing. They allow for the termination of multiple wires and contacts at once, which not only saves time but also reduces costs significantly.
No Stripping Required: One of the key advantages of IDC is that they bypass the need to strip the insulation from wires before it is soldered.
User-Friendly Tools: IDC connectors can often be terminated using basic hand tools, and the forces required for termination are relatively low. This simplicity makes them accessible to a wide range of applications.
Enhanced Ruggedness: Matting connectors for IDC cable wire assemblies often incorporate features like locking clips, ejection latches, strain relief, and polarization, enhancing the ruggedness of the assembly.
Gas-Tight and Vibration-Proof: Insulation Displacement Connectors are prized for their gas-tight and vibration-proof characteristics. These qualities stem from the meticulous design and manufacturing of the best wire harness covers and wraps.

The Versatility Of Crimp Connectors

Crimping is a popular method for terminating stranded wires that substitutes soldering processes. A wire is threaded through the terminal, inserted into a crimping tool, and compressed under high pressure to create metal-to-metal contact. Crimping is ideal for designs that include distinct wires of varying diameters in a single unit.

Features of Crimped Contacts

Maneuverability Beyond Ribbon Cables: Crimped cable assemblies, typically designed for discrete (individual) wires, bring a degree of maneuverability that ribbon cables cannot match. They can bend, angle, and flex into tight bends and small spaces, allowing designers to navigate intricate paths that would be challenging with other termination methods.
Breaking Boundaries with Discrete Wires: A Crimp connection has breakpoints from a higher pin-count connector to several smaller position connectors, providing design flexibility and support.
Multiple Wire Sizes in One Cable Assembly: One of the standout features of crimp systems is their ability to accommodate two or more wire sizes within a single cable assembly. It not only streamlines the design process but also optimizes board space and reduces the need for additional connectors. With some contact systems, like the 2.54 mm pitch connectors, crimping accepts a wide range of wire gauges, from 20 to 30 AWG.
Pitch Transitioning for Real Estate Savings: Crimped connector assemblies empower designers to transition from one connector pitch to another, a common scenario when connecting their PCB to another supplier’s device or PCB. This transition often involves designing a smaller pitch termination to conserve valuable real estate.
Selective Population for Safety: Crimped cable contact systems offer the flexibility to pull pins selectively within the plastic insulator, ensuring compliance with creepage and clearance requirements. This meticulous control over pin placement enhances safety and reliability.
Diverse Design Options: Like their IDC counterparts, crimped contact systems come in a wide array of design and manufacturing options. These encompass a variety of wire gauges, pin sizes, centerlines, latches, and features aimed at increasing the ruggedness of the system. The range of choices allows engineers and designers to tailor the connector to meet their specific project requirements.
Trade-offs in Complexity: They often require more complex assembly and manufacturing processes, contributing to increased assembly time and tooling costs.

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Five Tips For Choosing The Right Connector For Your Application

Here are five essential tips tailored to assist you in making the right choice and deciding between IDC and crimp connectors, ensuring a seamless fit for your specific needs.

1. Cost-effectiveness

IDC: IDC connectors are inexpensive due to their streamlined manufacturing process, eliminating the need for labor-intensive tasks like insulation stripping, soldering, or individual crimping. They save time and money because they eliminate the need to remove insulation from wires.
Crimp Connectors: Crimp connectors excel in precision and security, offering gas-tight, low-resistance wire connections that are essential for the efficient transmission of signals.

2. Speed and ease of installation

IDC: IDC connections offer a wide range of applications because of their resistance to stress and large temperature variations. Since less force is needed to achieve a termination, they are simpler to install. Also, the ability to bulk terminate flat cables boosts production speed without the need for extra equipment or soldering.
Crimp Connectors: These come in a wide variety of types, offering adaptability to diverse applications and scenarios.

3. Durability and reliability

IDC: These create durable and reliable connections, are resistant to vibrations, and are capable of providing long-term performance. When a blade penetrates the insulation and makes contact with the wire, surface oxides are removed, resulting in a reliable metal-to-metal connection.
Crimp Connectors: Meanwhile, crimp connectors are highly precise and secure, minimizing the risk of signal loss or disconnection. They are also resistant to moisture and very reliable.

4. Suitability for different wire sizes

IDC: IDC is adaptable and offers various wire sizes and types, providing versatility in various applications. They may be used for both solid and stranded wires in a variety of applications.
Crimp Connectors: These deliver precise, gas-tight, low-resistance connections, ideal for efficient signal transmission.

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5. Flexibility concerns

IDC: IDC cable assemblies, while economical, are relatively inflexible and rigid, making them best suited for straight-line connections and less versatile for applications that require cable flexibility.
Crimp Connectors: These are highly controlled and precise, ensuring consistent results. However, they may entail more complex assembly and manufacturing processes, which can increase assembly time and tooling costs.

Conclusion

IDCs are more cost-effective and dependable than crimping and soldering, especially for cables used in power and data applications. Because of their simplicity and dependability, producers can connect huge numbers of wires at high speeds, making them the perfect termination solution for a variety of cable assemblies.

However, no matter what connector you choose, it should be of top quality and not break or get exposed to damage easily. Readers are reminded that the ultimate decision should confirm specific needs and priorities.

Violin Technologies, a leading contract manufacturer, offers custom wire harness connectors and terminals. Our expert cable engineers choose connectors based on connection types, insulation, and power contacts. Contact us today for the latest products tailored to your needs.

Almaas Saleem

About the Author

Almaas Saleem is a skilled software engineer from Kerala, India who currently resides in East Africa. She is passionate about technology and constantly seeks to learn more about it through reading and hands-on experience. Almaas excels in web development, design, automated testing software, ethical hacking, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. She also works as a technical writer for new businesses, managing various entities. Almaas is distinguished by her steadfastness and commitment to her work, which consistently ion.

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