A pogo pin or spring loaded pin is an electrical connector mechanism that is widely used in modern electronic applications and in the electronics testing industry. The name comes from the pin’s resemblance to a pogo stick and it features an integrated helical spring that applies a constant normal force against the back of a mating receptacle or contact plate.
Plunger
The plunger of a pogo pin spring loaded pin is the part that retains the pin and prevents it from moving out when it’s not locked in place. It also acts as a connection point between the barrel and the spring. When force is applied to the plunger, it moves inside the barrel. It can move slightly, but the shape of the barrel keeps it in place, preventing the spring from pushing it out.
Plungers are available in different shapes and are typically made from stainless steel or brass. Plastic substitutes are a viable option for applications that require a non-deforming pin that does not damage the metal. Pogo pins are used in many different types of electronics and electronics testing. They are especially suited to applications where space and environmental factors are restricted. They are also a great way to make a direct electrical connection between two circuit boards without the use of a physical port.
Barrel
A pogo pin spring loaded pin is a type of electrical connector mechanism that is known for the durability and resilience of its electrical connection to mechanical shock and vibration. It is widely used in many modern electronic applications and in the electronics testing industry. A pin mechanism consists of 3 main parts: the plunger, barrel and spring. When force is applied, the spring compresses and forces the plunger to move inside the barrel.
The pin’s barrel also prevents the spring from pushing out when the pin is not locked into position. A slight gap between the plunger and the barrel allows for movement, but it can also allow vibration to cause momentary disconnections. A complete connection path requires a mating receptacle for the pin to engage, which is called a target or land. This may be a separate component in the complete connector assembly, or simply a plated area of the board.
Spring
A pogo pin is a slender cylindrical device with two sharp pins which are pressed into electronic circuit boards to form a connection. A spring tacked onto one of the pins allows for the necessary range of movement to form a secure connection without a solder bridge. The best part is that the design enables a plethora of mounting styles including through-hole, surface mount, wire termination and press-fit.
A good pin is made from a number of precision machined components. It is also plated with gold over nickel to ensure excellent electrical conductivity, durability and corrosion resistance throughout its lifespan. A spring-loaded pin is the ideal choice for applications requiring robust, reliable electrical connections in the most challenging environments. From the most advanced electronics to the most mundane components, Mill-Max offers a full line of high quality spring loaded pin in various shapes and sizes to fit your needs. Contact our experts today for a quote on a custom solution to meet your exact requirements.
Socket
Pogo pins are made use of in a wide range of electronic gadgets as well as circuits. They are gaining in appeal due to their tiny dimension, dependable performance and also low expense. For decades, pogo-style probe pins (also known as spring-loaded pins) have offered excellent mechanical and electrical performance in highly compatible contacts. However, because each pin is composed of 3 – 4 prudent parts manufactured and assembled in a laborious, less than fully automated process, the cost can be exorbitant when significant volumes are required.
As a result, manufacturers of electronic test sockets and board-to-board compression connectors have been seeking an alternative that would deliver the same high performance without the costly labor intensive manufacturing process. Earlier this year, Germany-based test socket manufacturer EP Ants GmbH developed a new pin called the H-Pin that is manufactured using a stamping and 100% automated assembly and inspection process.
Final Word
A spring loaded pin is a mechanical fastener that is formed from a coil of coiled metal. These self-retaining fasteners are used for many applications such as cosmetic cases, automotive door handles and locks, latches, and a variety of other uses.