Mini Din Connector

About Mini Din Connector

Standard (full-size) DIN connectorsThese connectors typically have a 13.2 mm diameter and feature pins arranged in a circular pattern inside a metal shield.

• Audio Equipment: DIN connectors were widely used for audio signals in European hi-fi systems before the dominance of RCA connectors.
• MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface): A 5-pin DIN connector is the standard for connecting electronic musical instruments and controllers.
• Legacy PC Keyboards: Early PC keyboards used a 5-pin DIN connector.

Mini-DIN connectorsAs the name suggests, mini-DIN connectors are a smaller version of the standard DIN. They also have a circular shape but feature pins arranged in horizontal rows.

• PS/2 Mouse and Keyboard: A 6-pin mini-DIN connector is famously known as the PS/2 connector, used for connecting older computer mice and keyboards.
• S-Video: A 4-pin mini-DIN connector was the standard for S-Video, an analog video signal format.
• Apple Desktop Bus (ADB): Some older Apple computers used mini-DIN connectors for their desktop bus.
• Serial Ports: Older Sun Microsystems computers and Apple devices used 8-pin mini-DIN connectors for serial communication.

Industrial DIN connectorsBeyond consumer electronics, a standardized version of the DIN connector is used in demanding industrial environments for powering and controlling equipment.

• DIN 43650 / EN 175301-803: This is a robust standard for connectors used with hydraulic and pneumatic valves, pressure transducers, and other electromagnetic devices in industrial machinery.
• Board-to-Board Connections: High-density, high-reliability connectors that conform to the DIN 41612 standard are used for board-to-board connections in rack systems and industrial controls.

How to choose the right DIN connector

• Check the pin count: Determine the exact number of pins on your device's port. Common options include 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 pins.
• Distinguish between standard and mini-DIN: Standard DIN connectors have a larger diameter (13.2mm) than mini-DIN connectors. Don't try to force one into the other, as they are not compatible.
• Verify the pin configuration: Even if the pin count is the same, the pin pattern can vary. For example, a 5-pin audio DIN is different from a 5-pin MIDI DIN.
• Match male and female connectors: A male DIN plug is keyed to fit into a female DIN socket in a specific orientation to prevent accidental misinsertion.

Reliable Signal Integrity and Durability

Engineered for precision, the Mini DIN Connector provides excellent signal integrity thanks to gold-over-nickel plating and copper conductors. Its robust construction, including a secure locking mechanism and durable PBT insulation, ensures a lifespan of up to 500 mating cycles. This connector resists everyday wear while providing a stable electrical connection.


Versatile Mounting and Wide Compatibility

Designed for easy integration, the connector supports through-hole, PCB, and panel mounting styles, making it suitable for both new projects and retrofits. With standard 12mm diameter and multiple pin configurations (4 to 8 pins), it interfaces seamlessly with audio, video, and computer peripherals, cables, and communication devices.


Industrial Standards and Safety Compliance

Meeting UL94V-0 flame class and RoHS standards, the Mini DIN Connector prioritizes safety and environmental responsibility. Its PBT insulation, IP20 ingress protection, and nickel-plated brass shielding ensure consistent performance, even under challenging conditions. The connector is suitable for a temperature range from -20C to +85C, meeting the requirements of a wide variety of industrial and commercial applications.