XLR Connector is a kind of electrical connector one can get with professional video, audio and stage lighting devices. This kind of connector has a circular design with 3 to 7 pins. They are primarily used with balanced audio interconnection but have also found its use in low-voltage power supplies, lighting control, and other many more applications. Several manufacturers make XLR connector having an international standard for dimensions, IEC 61076-2-103. They are the same as the littler DIN connector, however, they are not physically good with them.
Design
XLR connectors come in both female as well as male versions in both chassis and cable mounting design (total 4 styles). This is a bit unusual as several other designs of connectors discard one of the styles.
The female XLR connector is designed in such a manner that at first pin 1 is connected (earth pin) before other pins come in contact whenever a male XLR connector is inserted inside.
The number of pins is not the same in all XLR connectors. By 2016, mini XLR connector comes with at most 8 pins and a normal XLR connector comes with at most 10 pins.
Patterns and Applications
One of the most commonly used XLR connectors is the 3-Pin XLR connectors. It is mostly used in professional microphones. Earlier this kind of connector was used in connecting loudspeakers. XLR3 has a current-carrying capacity of 15 Amperes and can accept a 1.6mm wire which is suitable for several loudspeakers but they are now replaced by Speakon Connectors.
XLR3 are now used in rechargeable devices like scooters and wheelchair. Here these connectors work at a potential difference of 24Volts and carry 2 to 10 Amperes of current. At last, they are also utilized for DMX512. DMX512 is commonly used in controlling the lightening and effects of a stage.
4-pin connectors are the fundamental connector used in intercom headsets. For example, headsets made of Telex and ClearCom. 2 pins are utilized for unbalanced microphone signal and 2 pins for mono headphone signal.
XLR4 is also used in DC power connections for video and film cameras. Other uses of these pins are in AMX analog lighting control, some pyrotechnic equipment and scrollers.
It is a standard connector for DMX512 lighting control. It is also used in stereo or dual-element microphones and stereo intercom headset.
6-pin XLR connectors have found its utilization in stage lighting control applications and dual-channel intercom systems.
7-pin XLR connectors help in connecting tube condenser microphones with their power supplies which carry polarization voltage, signal, and heater.
The PDN Connector, popularly known as the Loudspeaker Cannon is used in connecting loudspeakers and audio power amplifiers.
This was all we have regarding XLR connectors. Hope you like going through the article. Brands that manufacture XLR connectors are Neutrik, Switchcraft, and Amphenol. Make sure to follow them using the links provided by us.
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