A Comprehensive Guide to the Various Types of PCB Sockets

A Comprehensive Guide to the Various Types of PCB Sockets
7 min read

PCB sockets are single-component connection sockets ideal for plugging and unplugging components on computer circuit boards. This article discusses different types of PCB sockets, such as LGA and Samtec PCB sockets. Depending on the size of your board, you can use different types of these sockets.

Samtec PCB Sockets:

Samtec PCB sockets are made of high quality materials, and their three-point contact design makes them safer to connect electronic components to the PCB. The three-point contact also ensures continuity in the electrical connection. In addition to these benefits, Samtec PCB sockets are also available in a variety of post and stack heights. There are many types of connectors for Samtec PCB sockets, so make sure you select the best connector and terminal set based on your design needs. 

After you have selected the connector type, you can select the connector set and socket you need based on the part to be soldered. A mated connector and terminal set increases the reliability of your circuit board. Samtec PCB sockets come in single and multi-pin versions. Samtec's SSM jack line is designed for microwave applications. They feature Tiger Claw contacts with dual wipe capability. Socket pass-through functionality is an essential feature for applications where space is at a premium. These products are also available in vertical and right angle orientations. In addition to Samtec's X-Ray PCB sockets, there are various pin styles suitable for board-to-board connections.

Applications:

Samtec PCB sockets are suitable for connecting up to three circuit boards. These sockets have two pins on each side and are fixed in a plug housing. They are a practical solution for applications where certain components are located on the top side of the circuit board. By using PCB sockets, manufacturers can easily replace timers, relays, and other electronic devices that need to be connected to the PCB.

Harwin PCB Sockets:

Harwin PCB sockets are a robust type of PCB through-hole mounting socket. This range includes four-beam and six-beam versions. They feature a four-finger beryllium copper contact clip for superior contact resistance and high vibration and shock resistance. These receptacles are suitable for a variety of applications, from single-phase power to high-frequency AC and DC power distribution. As a global supplier of PCB hardware accessories, Harwin is a leading authority on reliable connections. They are the original designer and manufacturer of the highly reliable Interconnect family, offering an extensive range of interconnect solutions. 

Harwin also offers industry-standard compatibility with existing designs. You can trust Harwin to bring you reliable, cost-effective PCB connectors. These products are available for prototyping and total production. Harwin PCB sockets are the most affordable and versatile PCB mounting option. The knurling on the mating surface is primarily for mechanical retention and does not provide a gas-tight connection when inserted into a plated hole. Soldering is required to connect PCB sockets to PCBs. This process can be done by hand or by wave soldering. However, it is recommended to check the solder joint after assembly.

Sycamore Contact PCB Sockets:

These sockets are designed for high volume applications and feature triple contact points, excellent pin retention, and improved material selection for longer life. Sycamore is ideal for field-replaceable modules with odd connector layouts, including sensors and relays. This new surface mount technology is available in two styles: ape-and-reel or one-piece. In addition, these sockets are ideal for high-performance, high-reliability, and flexible electrical connections. The 6-A series allows engineers to accommodate a variety of designs without the hassle of custom connector housings. 

These sockets have a body length of 5.87mm and accept mating pins ranging in size from 0.8 to 1.3mm. These PCB sockets are also inverted for top entry operation. Another advantage of the Sycamore Contact PCB sockets is that they are compatible with most components. They are cheaper and easier to fit compared to surface mount sockets. As such, they are a popular choice among electronic component manufacturers. It also offers an easy replacement for engineers and faster production time.

LGA PCB Sockets:

Land Grid Array (LGA) PCB sockets are designed for silicon ICs that use an LGA package. These sockets are designed for use in various applications, including embedded CPUs, module-to-board (MTB) integration, and custom ASICs. They offer the ability to mate and unmate IC packages, preserving the IC and PCB investment. They quickly customise PCBs and IC packages to meet exact application specifications. The PCB socket assembly is  100% of a conventional LGA IC package and can have the same contact design in the signal and power areas. However, these contacts do not perform the same functions in different applications because the signal contact pads carry low currents. At the same time, the power supply area 126 is used for high-current signals. Therefore, the increased current density through the power delivery region 126 may cause the contacts to self-heat and reduce power delivery to the IC package 108.

PCB sockets for LGA are available for the latest generation of Intel processors. The LGA 2011 socket from TE Connectivity, a division of Tyco Electronics, is a good option for applications that require a high-speed CPU. It features solder balls and a hex ball array for improved stability and durability. The LGA 2011 socket also comes with a support plate, limiting PCB flexing during compression. The socket itself and the hardware system are provided with a gold-plated contact coating. 

TE Connectivity's LGA 3647 socket satisfies next-generation Intel CPU processor designs. It offers better system scalability and reliability than previous generations. TE is a Limited-LGA 3647 PCB socket technology supplier and a trusted partner of Intel CPU processors. No other socket offers the same benefits as the LGA 3647. 

JST-XH PCB Mounting Sockets:

The JST-XH PCB mounting socket is a high-density mounting series with a mounting height of 9.8mm. It is available in two, three, four, five, and six-pin versions with matching housings and pins for cable connections. The XH series connectors look like many other connectors and are most commonly used to route generic signals. The XH connector is also commonly used in Zero Delay Boards, as evidenced by the presence of these connectors in SoC cleaners like Magicians and Super Fresh. 

The locking mechanism of these connectors is sufficient, and controller manufacturers glue them together. In addition, the pitch of the XH connector is 2.5mm. The JST connector set is also commonly used in robotics and hobbyist projects. Its 2.54mm lead spacing makes it easy to mount on standard prototype devices. It is also available in two, three, or four-pole versions. This type is ideal for splicing two wires together or a cable with many connections. These connectors are commonly found on radio control batteries and decorative RGB LED light strips.

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