Molex connector facts for kids
A Molex connector is a special type of electrical plug that helps connect parts inside electronic devices. You'll often find these connectors inside Personal computers, where they are super important for sending power to different parts. They work using a simple "pin and socket" idea, like a plug fitting into a wall outlet. The company that first made these popular connectors is also called Molex.
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What Are Molex Connectors?
Molex connectors are designed to carry electricity safely from one part of a device to another. They are known for being strong and reliable. The "pin and socket" design means one part has small metal pins, and the other has holes (sockets) that perfectly fit those pins. When they connect, electricity can flow through them.
How Molex Connectors Work
Imagine a puzzle piece that fits perfectly into another. That's how a Molex connector works! One side, often called the "male" part, has several metal pins sticking out. The other side, the "female" part, has matching holes or "sockets." When you push them together, the pins slide into the sockets, creating a secure connection. This connection allows electric power to travel from one device to another, like from your computer's power supply to a hard drive.
Where You Find Molex Connectors
These connectors are very common inside desktop Personal computers. They are often used to power parts like:
- Older Hard disk drives
- CD or DVD drives
- Some older Graphics cards
- Cooling fans
They are also used on many different electronic circuit boards, which are the green boards with all the tiny parts that make electronics work. Molex connectors help these boards get the power they need to operate.
History of Molex Connectors
The Molex company was founded in 1937. They started by making a plastic material called "Molex." Later, they began using this material to create connectors. The first true Molex connector was made in the 1950s. Since then, their simple and effective design has made them a standard choice for connecting electronic parts, especially in computers.
Images for kids
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AMP Mate-n-Lok and Molex Standard 0.093-inch pin and socket power connectors
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Molex Standard 0.093-inch pin and socket connectors
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Molex Disk Drive Power Connection System tool and connectors
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ATX connector
