Printed circuit board (PCB) terminal blocks, also called electronic blocks, are insulated, modular devices designed to predominantly mount on PCBs and secure multiple wires together. These blocks are comprised of a series of long terminals arranged in a strip that firmly secures and terminates wires for optimization and space-saving. They are also useful for linking wires to the ground and electrical switches/outlets to the mains. In addition, they are highly reliable and flexible and are used in a wide range of diverse applications.
Importance of PCB Terminal Blocks
Printed circuit board terminal blocks are an excellent source for efficiently connecting two or more wires with high reliability and longevity. They may be used for a variety of special applications using different securing methods. Their bodies' expansion coefficients also provide corrosion resistance and prevent wire loosening.
Types of PCB Terminal Blocks
Printed circuit board terminal blocks are widely categorized based on their structure, device, and termination type.
Structure Types
Based on the structure, they are of three types:
These are the basic types of terminal blocks designed for wire-to-wire connections.
With two contact levels, they are more space-saving and simple to use.
They are basically dual level blocks with an additional stacked contact that can be bridged.
Device Types
Terminal blocks are also classified based on device type or application, such as:
- Sensor/actuator blocks
- Power distribution blocks
- Disconnect blocks
- Ground circuit terminals
- Fuse holders
- Thermocouple blocks
- I/O blocks
Termination Types
Terminal blocks are also grouped based on termination types and include:
- Insulation displacement connections (IDC)
This is a convenient and easy connection method that is accomplished by pushing the wire between two sharp metals. These metals break the exterior sheaths, making connections without any bare wire exposures.
These are the connections that employ spring pressure in order to press or retain wires in a fixed place. They are suitable for environments where there is limited working space or that do not require high-strength connections.
They perform similar to spring clamps to hold wires in place using pressure; however, they are more robust in achieving more significant tightened clamping pressure by using screws. These are the most favored methods of termination in industry standards. In addition, they are capable of accommodating multiple ranges of wire sizes with reliable connections.
Applications of PCB Terminal Blocks
These reliable terminal blocks are widely used in:
- Control and monitoring devices
- Home charging stations
- Flow meters
- Frequency converters
- Controllers
- Power supplies, filters, surge protection
- Signal converters
- Interface, I/O modules
- Lighting
- Safety technologies
- Communication devices
- Building automation
- Solar inverters
