Switchcraft Inc. D4M

Contact Material refers to the material used to make the electrical contacts in a component. It determines the electrical conductivity, durability, and resistance to corrosion and wear of the contacts. Common contact materials include copper, silver, gold, and alloys of these metals. The choice of contact material depends on the specific application and the required performance characteristics.

Mounting Type refers to the method by which an electronic component is attached to a printed circuit board (PCB) or other surface. Common mounting types include: * Through-hole: Component leads are inserted into holes in the PCB and soldered on the other side. * Surface-mount: Component is placed on the surface of the PCB and soldered in place. * Press-fit: Component is pressed into place on the PCB without soldering. * Socket: Component is inserted into a socket on the PCB, allowing for easy replacement. The mounting type is determined by factors such as the component's size, shape, and power requirements.

Package / Case refers to the physical housing or enclosure that encapsulates an electronic component. It provides protection, facilitates handling, and enables electrical connections. The package type determines the component's size, shape, pin configuration, and mounting options. Common package types include DIP (dual in-line package), SOIC (small outline integrated circuit), and BGA (ball grid array). The package also influences the component's thermal and electrical performance.

Body Material refers to the material used to construct the main body or housing of an electronic component. It provides structural support, protection, and electrical insulation. Common body materials include plastic, metal, ceramic, and composite materials. The choice of body material depends on factors such as durability, heat dissipation, electrical conductivity, and cost.

Series, in the context of electronic components, refers to the arrangement of components in a circuit. When components are connected in series, they form a single path for current to flow through. The total resistance of a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances of each component. Series connections are often used to control the flow of current in a circuit, as the total resistance can be adjusted by changing the number or type of components in the series.

Part Status is an electronic component parameter that indicates the availability and production status of a component. It is typically used to inform customers about the availability of a component, whether it is in production, end-of-life, or obsolete. Part Status can also provide information about any restrictions or limitations on the component's use, such as whether it is only available for certain applications or if it has been discontinued.

Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) is a measure of the susceptibility of a surface mount electronic component to moisture-induced damage during soldering. It is classified into six levels, from 1 (least sensitive) to 6 (most sensitive). MSL is determined by the materials used in the component's construction, including the solderability of its terminals and the presence of moisture-absorbing materials. Components with higher MSL ratings require more stringent handling and storage conditions to prevent moisture absorption and subsequent damage during soldering.

Termination refers to the electrical characteristics of a component or circuit at its input or output terminals. It describes how the component or circuit interacts with external signals or devices. Termination can involve matching impedance, providing voltage or current regulation, or filtering unwanted signals. Proper termination ensures efficient signal transfer, minimizes reflections, and prevents damage to components. It is crucial for maintaining signal integrity and optimizing circuit performance.

Connector Type refers to the physical interface used to connect an electronic component to other devices or systems. It specifies the shape, size, pin configuration, and mating mechanism of the connector. Common connector types include USB, HDMI, Ethernet, and power connectors. The choice of connector type depends on factors such as signal type, data rate, power requirements, and environmental conditions.

Number of Positions, in the context of electronic components, refers to the number of distinct terminals or connection points available on the component. It indicates the number of individual electrical connections that can be made to the component. A higher number of positions typically allows for more complex functionality and versatility in circuit design.

Voltage - Rated refers to the maximum voltage that an electronic component can withstand without being damaged. It is typically specified in volts (V) and is an important parameter to consider when selecting components for a circuit. Exceeding the rated voltage can lead to component failure, so it is important to ensure that the voltage applied to a component does not exceed its rated voltage.

Orientation refers to the physical alignment or position of an electronic component in relation to a reference point or axis. It specifies the direction in which the component should be mounted or installed to ensure proper functionality and performance. Orientation is crucial for components such as diodes, transistors, capacitors, and connectors, where the polarity or pinout must be correctly aligned to prevent damage or malfunction.

Current Rating is the maximum amount of current that an electronic component can safely handle without overheating or failing. It is typically expressed in amperes (A) or milliamperes (mA). Exceeding the current rating can damage the component and potentially create a safety hazard. The current rating is determined by the physical characteristics of the component, such as its size, material, and construction.

Number of Ports refers to the number of electrical connections or terminals available on an electronic component. It indicates the number of external devices or signals that can be connected to the component. For example, a transistor may have three ports (emitter, base, and collector), while a resistor has two ports (terminals). The number of ports determines the functionality and connectivity options of the component within a circuit.

The number of poles in an electronic component, such as an inductor or capacitor, refers to the number of pairs of magnetic or electric field lines that pass through the component's core. A higher number of poles generally indicates a stronger magnetic or electric field and, consequently, a higher inductance or capacitance. The number of poles is a crucial parameter in determining the component's performance and suitability for specific applications.

Length, in the context of electronic components, refers to the physical dimension of a component along its longest axis. It is typically measured in millimeters (mm) or inches (in). Length is a crucial parameter for determining the physical size and space requirements of a component on a printed circuit board (PCB) or other assembly. It also affects the component's electrical characteristics, such as inductance and capacitance, which can be influenced by the length of conductors or traces within the component.