What You Should Know: The Basics of DC Power Jack

A DC power jack is going to be mostly used to power small electronic equipment.

It is the opposite f the AC power jacks that are typically used as a power source.

A DC power jack should be used according to manufacturers specifications to avoid damage to the electronic equipment.

There are different sizes of a DC power jack, just as there are with AC power jacks. A DC power jack, though, is considered the female version of the power jack. It does not have the prong that connects to the equipment. Instead the equipment will have the prong that connects to the DC power jack.

A DC power jack is made to fit certain specifications. In some cases, though, a DC power jack may fit for a piece of equipment it is not intended for. Damage can occur when using a DC power jack that is the wrong voltage, has the wrong polarity, exceeds current ratings or has the power filtered. Also if a DC power jack is forced to connect this can cause damage.

There are different types of DC power jacks and it is always important to
use the correct one. Barrel connectors are made to connect a cable to a
power supply. There are many different sized barrel connectors and it can
be difficult to tell them apart.

Snap and lock connectors have three or four pins and usually have a symbol on them that designates them as the snap and lock type of power jack.

A Molex connector is common for computers. It is one of the most recognized
DC power jacks available.

Other types of DC power jacks include the mini IEC connector which is most
often used on communication devices, the tamiya connector which is used for
radio controlled toys, the deans connector which is used on the larger radio
controlled toys and the Anderson power pole connector.

The Anderson power pole connector is used to power radios and radio accessories. They are very easy to use and also very adaptable without concern for damage to the electronic equipment.

A DC power jack can be very useful in many different situations. While they
are not as widely known or recognized as an AC power jack, DC power jacks
are still something you should understand.