DIN 7-Pin Cable

A DIN 7-pin cable is a circular electrical connector with seven pins, designed according to German industrial standards (DIN). It is widely used in audio equipment, industrial control systems, MIDI extensions, and specialized computer peripherals. Below is a detailed breakdown of its features, applications, and key considerations.

1. Physical Structure & Design

Circular Metal Housing:

Diameter: ~1.45 mm
Material: Copper with gold or tin plating for enhanced conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Typically 13.2 mm in diameter, featuring a notch or locking mechanism (e.g., bayonet or screw-lock) for secure alignment and prevention of accidental disconnection.
7-Pin Arrangement: Pins are spaced at 45° or 60° intervals (depending on the variant) to ensure proper mating.
Pin Specifications:

Connector Types:

Solder Cup: Hollow pins for manual wire soldering (common in DIY projects).
PCB Mount: Designed for direct soldering to printed circuit boards (PCBs).
Panel Mount: Secured to equipment panels via screws or nuts for fixed installations.

Male (Plug): Features protruding pins; used for output devices (e.g., audio sources, controllers).
Female (Jack): Features recessed sockets; used for input devices (e.g., amplifiers, industrial interfaces).
Mounting Options:

2. Electrical Specifications & Applications

Signal Transmission:

Optimized for low-voltage signals (audio, data, or control signals).
Not suitable for high-power applications (e.g., power transmission).

Typical Use Cases:

Certain legacy computers or professional equipment may use 7-pin DIN for data or control interfaces.

While standard MIDI uses 5-pin DIN, some professional audio devices or modules adopt 7-pin DIN for additional functionality (e.g., power delivery or extra control channels).

Data transmission or control links in machinery (e.g., sensor digital signals, backplane buses in industrial PCs).

Connecting vintage audio gear (e.g., turntables, mixers, effects processors).
Example: Transmitting composite video + sync signals or motor control signals in professional audio setups.

Audio Equipment:
Industrial Control:
MIDI Extensions:
Specialized Computer Peripherals:

Custom wire harness assembly

Molded cable assembly

Data cable

Power cable

Printed Circuit Board Assembly