Although the greatest responsibility when a product is useful lies in the quality of its parts, its assembly, the level of detail and so on, we must say that certain comparisons can always be made, such as the one we bring today on industrial connectors: rectangular vs. circular. Find out which are better and why in this post.
If you haven’t read our latest post on industrial connector types according to the professional sector, you can do so before going on with this one. It will help you to understand in more depth the dilemma raised in the next lines.
Are rectangular or circular industrial connectors better?
Industrial connectors are made in two designs in terms of shape, rectangular or circular. Each type has specific advantages and uses in which it will stand out above the other. However, it has to be said that we can also consider them in a general way, without taking into account the use given to each one and, in this way, understand what each one offers and, therefore, know which one is “better” like that, said badly and soon.
Rectangular connectors
You’ve probably seen the circular industrial connector much more often and therefore think it might be better. However, the real reason why it is much more established in the vast majority of industries is because of its age. With this we already know that the rectangular has been designed a posteriori and, as with many other products, it is an improved version of the circular, its predecessor, so that we already answer, in part, to the question we present.
The rectangular connector, after needing a lot of time for its design and development, satisfies certain needs that were little covered as well as those that have been added in various sectors over the years.
Advantages of rectangular connectors over circular connectors
Let’s see, directly, what advantages have the rectangular type connections in the different industries with respect to the old circular connectors.
- They offer greater protection of the pins.
- They have a greater spatial efficiency because, inside, practically all of their surface is occupied.
- They are connected to devices that circulars cannot, for example, PCBs, coaxial, fiber optics or Ethernet themselves.
- They combine different signal types in the same connector using standard modules.
- They include multiple locking options.
- Greater protection against overvoltage.
- They are, in general, more reliable.
- Visually they have a simpler coupling.
- There is greater flexibility for wiring options.
- More mounting options are given.
- They are more economical.
- Easier to customize.
circular connectors
Finally, we must once again remember that in this rectangular vs. circular comparison that must be taken into account for the purchase of industrial connectors has much to do with the purpose and certain conditions, so that not always the most obvious option is the most appropriate. The best thing is to have a good professional advice, based on your project and its particularities, advise you the most appropriate type. Only in this way will you be able to say that you are using the right products to achieve the best result.