Jack plugs and sockets, also called audio jacks or TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) connectors, are electrical connectors designed to transmit audio and other signals between electronic devices. These highly durable connectors come in various configurations to suit different requirements and applications in multiple domains. A jack plug or audio jack is a cylindrical audio connector comprising various contacts with appropriate insulation.
Jack plugs and sockets (male and female connectors) are extensively used for analogue audio signals. These audio and video connectors are compatible with various systems, while some require adapters for converting between different jack sizes and configurations. Additionally, these devices are properly insulated from each other and come in multiple versions.
Popular Types of Jack Plugs and Sockets
Jack connectors are classified into various types based on their sizes and configurations. The most common types include:
- 1/4-inch (6.35 mm) Jacks – Often used for instruments like electric guitars and amplifiers. These are also found in professional audio equipment.
- 1/8-inch (3.5 mm) Mini-Jacks – Commonly used in portable devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, headphones, and earphones.
- XLR Jacks – XLR connectors provide balanced audio transmission and are primarily used in professional audio settings, such as microphones and audio mixers.
- RCA Jacks – These jacks are used for composite audio and video signals, integrating red and white connectors for left and right audio channels.
- Mono vs. Stereo Jacks – Jack connectors can be a mono jack plug (single-channel) or stereo (two-channel). A stereo socket, commonly found in headphones, features an additional ring or tip, allowing separate left and right audio channels.
- TRS and TRRS Connectors –TRS connectors are typically used for stereo audio, while TRRS (Tip, Ring, Ring, Sleeve) connectors are ideal for stereo audio plus microphone input. Many modern smartphones and gaming headsets use TRRS connectors.
Jack Sockets Types Based on Mounting Configurations
Jack sockets come in various mounting configurations, including panel-mount, line sockets, and chassis-mount jack sockets. The chassis-mount sockets easily mount on desired equipment, while a line socket mounts on a cable. Other jack socket types include:
- Cable-mount Jack Plugs
- Locking Jack
- Flange-mount Jack Plugs
- PCB mount Jack Plugs
- Surface-mount Jack Plugs and Sockets
- Through-Hole Jacks.
Typical Applications of Jack Plugs & Sockets
Jack plugs and sockets are versatile audio connectors extensively used to connect a wide range of devices, including:
- Headphones
- Amplifiers
- iPods/Tablets
- Mobile Phones
- Keyboards
- Musical Instruments
- Microphones
- Other Audio Equipment.
