DIN Connectors
In general, there are seven types of DIN connectors; miniature, sub-miniature, D-subminiature, micro-miniature, multi-pin rectangular, panel interface, solenoid valve and coaxial. These can use any number between three and eight pins arranged inside a round metal shield. This shield is there to make sure the plug is fitted into the socket with the accurate alignment of pins, as well as to protect the pins from any possible damage. The number of pins a DIN connector has depends on its model and intended use, but is most commonly used for audio transmission in speakers, subwoofers, and radios, as well as for some analog video applications and digital interfaces.
One example of a DIN connector is the 5-pin DIN connector, which is used on many early models of PC keyboards and audio equipment, whereas a 6-pin Mini-DIM connector is used on the mouse, in addition to other, newer models of keyboards. There is also a two-pin, unshielded DIN connector called the DIN 41529, more commonly known as the loudspeaker connecter; as the name implies, this DIN connector is designed to connect a loudspeaker to a power amplifier. Additionally, there is what is called the 3/180 degree and 5/180 degree connectors, which were initially used in Germany, Czech Republic and other western European countries for the purpose of interconnecting analog audio equipment; an example of this being a stereo tape recorder to a stereo amplifier. The kind of cord used for this kind of connection has a connector on either end and is connected pin to pin; this design is rare in the United States and continues to become more and more uncommon elsewhere. A more current usage of DIN connectors is found in S-video connections; S-video is an abbreviation for separate-video, which refers to the way that the data carries brightness and color separately instead of in one signal, like composite video. S-video connections usually use DIN connectors with four-pin configurations and are used in televisions, DVD plates, VCRs, and video game consoles.
