Sizes of DC Power Sockets (Barrel Connectors)

[ricko_uk]

Hi,
there are many sizes of DC Power Sockets (Barrel Connectors) used by most DC wall power adaptors. I haven't yet found a logic nor a standard behind the various sizes (attached is my list of just Switchcraft parts). Furthermore in practice I found that some sockets can accept at least 2 sizes of the mating (cable) connector and still work.

1) Can anybody provide any logic at least on which one to choose?

2) Which is the most common socket generally as well as in USA and Europe? Alternatively a "preferred" one and for what reason would that be a preferred choice?

3) any general/other guidelines or infos also much appreciated.

Many thanks

[magic]

In my experience most devices which don't care about high current (like laptops) or small size (like cameras) tend to use either 2.1/5.5mm or 2.5/5.5mm. These dimensions refer to the inner/outer diameter of the female plug. There is also some variation in the length of the plug

[oPossum]

Take a look at what power supplies are available for your application and what plug they come with. For 6 volts and higher this will typically be 2.1 or 2.5 ID and 5.0 or 5.5 OD (4 possibilities). For 5 VDC 1.35 ID / 3.5 OD is somewhat of a standard. It is used on USB hubs and small external hard drives.

[ricko_uk]

Thank you all!!

[magic]

And if you want to piss your customers off, find one of those obscure PSUs which are center negative

[james_s]

I hate the 2.5mm center pin ones, they're much less common so I always have to really dig when I find something that needs one. While there's no standard, it does seem to be used more often for AC output power adapters.

[analogo]

No suggestion, but a bit of extra info.

The reference standard for these connectors is IEC 60130-10. You may find more information under that name.

Lots of musical equipment (for example guitar pedals) has standardized on 5.5/2.1

Another dimension to think about is the length of the barrel, not just the OD/ID.