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What are the different types of connector locking mechanisms?

Most connectors are equipped with a locking mechanism or ‘coupling system’ that allows the mating halves to be fixed together securely. This mechanical system holds the connectors in place to ensure a continuous connection, preventing accidental uncoupling.Get more news about Bayonet Lock Coupling,you can vist our website!

With so many types of electrical connectors and specifications available, it can be difficult to find the most reliable option for your applications needs.

The most popular types of connectors are referred to as circular connectors and rectangular connectors due to their shapes - let’s take a look into the common locking mechanisms available for these formats.

Bayonet locking
Most people will know a bayonet as a weapon – a blade that can be fixed to a firearm – but this military use also inspired the engineering term. A bayonet coupling system uses a plug or pin on one side and a receptacle or hole on the other, which requires rotating to engage or disengage.

Bayonet connectors are easy to operate by pushing the aligned parts together and rotating until an audible clicking sound is heard. Not only is it quick to secure, but it’s also quick to decouple, as a 1/3 turn can swiftly lock or unlock the connector.

As rotation is required, bayonet locking mechanisms are typically used by circular connectors. These durable systems can then be used to transmit power or signals in a variety of applications. Its resistance to shock and vibration makes it ideal for use in outdoor equipment.

Screw locking
Screw locking is another term for threaded coupling, which is a simple and universally recognisable system that allows parts to be tightened to a specific torque. Typically, one part has multiple pins or sockets that insert into the opposing part, and the coupling ring on one half is turned to engage the threads.

Again, in order to twist the connector and engage the locking mechanism, the connector has to be circular. However, there are also rectangular connector designs that use screw locking mechanisms, though these operate a bit differently.

Central screw mechanisms for rectangular connectors tend to have guide pins on one part and a central screw on the other, which connect in more of a push-pull style and may have a spring-loaded mechanism to prevent the central screw from loosening under vibration.

Jack screw (or jackscrew) mechanisms for rectangular connectors are most often used with d-sub miniature backshells. Usually, the backshell has a jack screw on either side, and the panel connector houses internal threads for them to mount into.

Snap-in locking
Lightweight, low-cost, and user-friendly – snap-in mechanisms simply snap into place by gently aligning and forcing the male half into the female counterpart. Separating them is as easy as pulling them apart the same way, but in reverse.

Also known as snap-on or sometimes slide-on interfaces, the coupled parts are secured in place with a retention mechanism. However, as they are easier to pull apart, there can be a higher risk of accidentally unplugging connectors with this locking style.

This swift disconnect can be useful when fast and frequent coupling and uncoupling is required, such as with electrical equipment testing. This locking mechanism is usually found in circular connectors and implemented in environments with limited space.