Posted on August 2, 2021 Ronert Jones Connectors
When attaching connectors into various pieces of equipment and assemblies, there are various mounting methods that one may use. A panel mount is a common mechanical feature that is present on various connectors, allowing for the component to be attached to a panel, case, or enclosure. While not always the case, a majority of mount connector types come in the form of cable connectors, those of which facilitate connections to other devices while providing shielding. As there are multiple types of panel mount positions, advantages, and characteristics that may be beneficial for certain applications, it can be useful to have a better understanding of such features and designs.
In general, the three main types of panel mount positions are external or rear-face mounting, internal or front-face mounting, and side mount variations. The external or rear-face mounting position is when the majority of the mount connector is placed on the outside of the box or panel, or on the front face. Internal or front-face mounting assemblies, meanwhile, place the majority of the cable connector within the box or panel of an equipment piece, the connection point protruding from its rear face. The final variation is the side mount which has the housing of the connector mounted to a panel of equipment in a horizontal position. As compared to the other types, the side mount position ensures a more secure connection which can be beneficial for certain applications.
When searching for various panel mount components from a connector manufacturer, it is very useful to understand the differentiation between panel mount and board mount types. Board mount devices are not cable connectors, rather using fasteners such as screws, bolts, and nuts or various latching mechanisms to secure a through board or surface mount connector. Often being used for securing connections to a printed circuit board (PCB), board mount connectors ensure a lower amount of stress on electrical soldering connections by transferring certain forces to the PCB. Nevertheless, it is possible for a board mount connector to also be a panel mount connector in some instances based on how the connector is attached to an assembly.
Panel mount connectors are most often used when an assembly is intended to be permanent, such as creating a convenient cut-out or panel hole on an enclosure for establishing media devices and connections. Panel mount systems are also useful for basic cable management, ensuring that connections are fed through enclosures to provide convenience for assemblies and systems. By taking advantage of panel mount connectors, external strain induced on connections can be reduced, increasing the service lives of devices.
While panel mount connections require cut out holes for the feeding of cables and connections, there are less mechanical requirements for establishing such attachments. As connectors can be panel mounted with simple adhesives instead of mechanical fixings, establishing such assemblies can be done with ease. Nevertheless, more rigorous applications and harsher environments may warrant more mechanical fixings in some instances. When you have determined whether or not panel mount connections are right for you, ASAP 360 Unlimited can help you secure all the connector and hardware components that you require with competitive prices and rapid lead-times.
ASAP 360 Unlimited is a premier purchasing platform owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, and we are your sourcing solution for aircraft parts, electronic components, and other various items that cater to a diverse set of industries and applications. Take your time in exploring our vast offerings, and our team is always available to assist you through the purchasing process however necessary. If you would like a quote on items for your comparisons, we invite you to fill out and submit an Instant RFQ form as provided on our website. At ASAP 360 Unlimited, we are more than just a dependable distributor; we are your strategic sourcing partner.
We're World's Largest Distributor for Aviation, Electronics and Electrical Connector Parts. Get an Instant Quote within 15 Minutes for Your Desired Part.
Request for Quote