How to Install Pins in a 9 Pin Connector

Install pins in a 9-pin connector to create a serial cable.

A 9-pin connector, commonly called a D-sub 9 or DB9, is used in a variety of computer communications and video applications. Making your own 9-pin connectors is an economical way to create cables that are the precise length for your application. By creating your own cables, you can avoid the clutter and signal loss associated with cables that are too long. To make your own 9-pin connectors, you’ll need a few basic tools and a wiring diagram for your application.

Things You'll Need

• Wire strippers
• Crimper
• Flathead screwdriver

Instructions

1. Strip half an inch of the outer jacket off the cable you’re using to create a communication cable. Determine how many conductors you need for your application. Strip a quarter of an inch of insulation off the conductors. Repeat this process at the other end of the cable.

2. Use wire strippers to cut individual pins free from the strip of pins included with the 9-pin connector. Cut out enough pins for the conductors at both ends of the cable.

3. Slide the bare end of one conductor into a pin until it won’t go any farther. Crimp the tabs closest to the rounded end of the pin around the bare conductor. Crimp the second set of tabs around the insulation of the conductor. When finished, the pin should be firmly attached to the conductor. Repeat this process for all of the conductors and pins.

4. Push each pin into the holes in the back of the 9-pin connector. Each pin has small tabs on the sides that will lock into the connector when you push it to the proper depth. Push each pin in until it locks into place and can’t be pulled out. Follow the pinout or wiring diagram for your application to determine which conductor should go into each hole.

5. Place the outer shell around the 9-pin connector, with the cable extending through the hole in the end of the shell. The rim of the connector should fit in a narrow groove around the opening of the shell. Insert the two screws into the body of the shell and tighten them with a flathead screwdriver.

6. Repeat this process for the other end of the cable. Most applications require different pin locations on each end of the cable.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on your application, the pins on one end of the cable may vary from the pins on the other end.

• Improper wiring may result in improper operation and could damage any connected devices.

References

• Classic Technology: D-sub Crimping

Resources

• Nullmodem: D-sub 9 Connector
• Pinouts: PC Serial Port Connector Pinout