pogoPins

Pogo pins are spring-loaded electrical connectors. They consist of a barrel, a spring, and a plunger. The plunger is held in contact with a mating surface by the spring, creating a temporary electrical connection. This design allows for repeated connections and disconnections without wear to the mating surfaces. Pogo pins are often used in applications where a reliable and durable connection is required, but a permanent soldered joint is not feasible or desired.

The primary function of a pogo pin is to bridge an electrical gap between two conductive surfaces. The spring provides the necessary force to maintain contact even with slight misalignments or vibrations. This self-adjusting capability makes them ideal for testing printed circuit boards, connecting battery packs, and in probes for automated test equipment. They can also be found in specialized connectors for medical devices and industrial automation.

The materials used in pogo pins vary, but typically include brass or phosphor bronze for the barrel and plunger, with plating such as gold or nickel to enhance conductivity and corrosion resistance. The springs are usually made of stainless steel. The design of the plunger tip can also vary, with common shapes including spherical, conical, and flat, to suit different mating surfaces and contact requirements. Pogo pins are manufactured with a range of spring forces and electrical current ratings to accommodate diverse applications.