Pogo pins, also called push-pull connectors or spring loaded pins, are one of the most common types of electrical connectors used in modern electronic devices. They are highly resistant to mechanical shock and vibration, and provide a very secure and reliable electrical connection. These devices can be a great choice for many different applications. However, there are some things to consider before you choose a pogo pin for your project.
The Plunger
A plunger is a tool used to clear drains and pipes. It consists of a rubber cup that is attached to a handle. The plunger is pushed down against the drain opening and forcefully released to unclog it. In electrical connector mechanisms, pogo pins are widely used for their durability and resilience to mechanical shock and vibration. Unlike other types of pins, the pogo pin has an integrated helical spring which applies a constant normal force against the back of the mating receptacle or contact plate, counteracting unwanted movement that might otherwise cause an intermittent connection.
The contact probe (spring probe) is mainly composed of three parts, a spring, a barrel, and a plunger. When the inspection of IC sockets is subdivided into two types, a test socket that measures electrical characteristics and a burn-in socket that tests reliability such as durability, it is necessary to select a suitable tip shape according to the material and the shape of the inspection destination.
The Barrel
The barrel of a pogo pin spring loaded pin is the part that houses the plunger and the spring. When force is applied to the pin, the spring compresses and the plunger moves inside the barrel. The shape of the barrel allows it to retain the plunger. This ensures that it cannot push out when the pin is not pressed against a target.
This type of connector is popular in the electronic devices industry for a number of reasons. They are extremely sturdy and can withstand vibration, making them ideal for use in space-saving styles as well as applications where the adapter is subjected to shock or movement. Another reason that this type of connector is so widely used is because it is very easy to make. It is produced using a turning and spinning process that does not require a mold, so it can be made in smaller quantities than other types of connectors.
The Spring
A pogo pin spring loaded pin is a type of electrical connector that can be found in many modern electronic devices. Unlike most other types of pin mechanics that use a cantilever spring or expansion sleeve, pogo pins utilise a helical spring that applies constant normal force against the back of a mating receptacle or contact plate, counteracting any unwanted movement which might otherwise result in an intermittent connection. Due to its little dimension, dependability and also inexpensiveness, pogo pins are increasingly becoming popular in a variety of applications across a number of industries.
They are mainly used for electrical testing and inspection of various types of components, including semiconductor wafers, IC sockets, printed circuit boards as well as other devices. In addition, they are also utilized in a range of electronic gadgets, such as cell phones, laptop computers, smart wearable tools, cameras, and also POS terminals. They are a reliable alternative to solder joints in space-saving designs, and are resistant to vibration and movement.
The Target
Pogo pins, also called spring loaded pin, are an electrical connector mechanism that is known for its durability and resilience to mechanical shock and vibration. This unique construction consists of an integrated helical spring that applies a constant force against the back of the mating receptacle or contact plate, which prevents unwanted movement that may cause an intermittent connection.
In addition to this helical spring, the target of a pogo pin is made up of a flat or concave metal surface that has no moving parts. This may be a plated area of a printed circuit board or a separate component in the connector assembly. A pogo pin’s target or land is fabricated using a turning and spinning process without the need for a mold, enabling small volume production at a lower cost than other contacts. This is why pogo pins are one of the most commonly used electronic connectors in modern digital devices and circuits.
What’s Next?
Using spring loaded pins in test sockets and board-to-board compression connectors can be cost effective when compared to stamped contacts. Depending on the quantity, they can save 30 – 50 percent on manufacturing costs and reduce errors in reliability testing, burn-in and other requirements.
