Stereojack

Stereojack is a term that refers to a type of electrical connector commonly used for audio signals. It is a plug with a cylindrical shaft that is divided into two or more conductive sections, separated by insulating rings. The most common type of stereojack is the 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) TRS connector, which has three conductive sections: a tip, a ring, and a sleeve.

The tip section typically carries the left audio channel, while the ring section carries the right audio channel. The sleeve section is usually used as a common ground connection for both channels. This configuration allows for the transmission of stereo audio signals over a single cable. Stereojacks can also be found in other sizes, such as 6.35 mm (1/4 inch), which are often used in professional audio equipment.

In addition to stereo audio, stereojacks can also be used for other purposes. For example, a TRS connector can be wired to carry a mono audio signal and a separate control signal, such as a microphone input on some headphones. The specific wiring and function of a stereojack can vary depending on the device it is used with. The popularity of the 3.5 mm stereojack has led to its widespread adoption in consumer electronics, including smartphones, laptops, and portable music players.