Definition of Terminal Blocks

Terminal blocks are typically found in automobiles

Mechanical devices often contain a number of electrical components. These components must interface, or connect, in order to function. A terminal block can assist with these connections.

Definition

A terminal block is a connector that allows more than one circuit to connect to another without a splice or physically joining the ends. Terminal blocks are commonly used in automobiles.

Process

Terminal blocks typically contain two long copper or aluminum strips, designed to connect different components. These strips create a bus bar, or electricity conductor, for power distribution, which is sent to the connected components.

Types

Terminal blocks are typically either plug-in, screw-in or PCB types. Screw-in terminal blocks contain wires housed inside the block and screwed into position. Screw-in terminal blocks are often used for equipment that does not require high voltage protection. Plug-in terminal blocks contain a male-type terminal at the end of the wire, which is connected to the female port on the block. Plug-in terminal blocks are often used in automobile fuse boxes. PCB, or printed circuit board terminal blocks, are commonly found in computers, and are soldered, or fused, to the circuit board.

References

• Machinedesign.com: Terminal Blocks
• "Machine Design: An Integrated Approach (3rd Edition)"; Robert Norton; Prentice Hall; 2005

Resources

• "Machine Design (4th Edition)"; Robert Norton; Prentice Hall; 2010