What is DB9 Connector? What to Know

DB9 Connector

What is DB9 connector? The term “DB9” refers to a common connector type, one of the D-Subminiature or D-Sub types of connectors. DB9 has the smallest “footprint” of the D-Subminiature connectors have 9 pins or 9 holes depending on whether they are male or female, and they are housed in the connector.

For many years, serial port connections have typically used DB9 connectors. There are nine positions available for data transfer, and the shell automatically grounds to the chassis. Learn more by continuing to read.

What is DB9 Connector?

Electrical connector known as the DB9 connector. The term “DB9” refers to a common connector type, one of the connectors of the D-Subminiature or D-Sub variety. DB9 has the smallest “footprint” of the D-Subminiature connectors have 9 pins (for the male connector) or 9 holes (for the female connector) and are housed in this connector.

DB9 Connector

The DE-9 D-sub 9-pin connector is often mistakenly referred to as the “DB-9” connector. The “E” refers to the shell size. A “DB-25” connector has a “B” size shell, but the common nine-pin connector is smaller and has an “E” size shell.

Read More: What’s A Smart Connector?

Where Are DB9 Connectors Used?

  • Communications ports

Despite the fact that the standard did not make this connector mandatory, RS-232 serial communications is the most common use for D-subs. Initially, RS-232 devices used the DB25, but for a number of applications, the less common signals were skipped, allowing a DE-9 to be used.

In order to communicate with the connected computer via an RS-232 interface, many uninterruptible power supply units have a DE-9F connector on them. These frequently use the handshaking control lines rather than sending data serially to the computer to signal low battery, power failure, or other conditions. Manufacturers don’t always use the same methods, so you might need specialized cables.

  • Network ports

For some computer networks, including token ring networks, DE9 connectors were employed. DE-9 connectors are frequently used in CAN; female connectors are on the bus and male connectors are on the devices.

  • Computer video output
  • Game controller ports

FAQs

Is RS232 and DB9 the Same?

For a serial cable, the DB9 connector has nine pins.You can see one here.RS-232, on the other hand, refers to the standard itself. The RS-232 standard, also known as EIA-232, describes how systems can talk to one another using a serial cable.

Is DB9 the Same as VGA?

The VGA connector can use a classic DB9 connector or (more commonly today) a DB15 style connector. The Host/PC is where the female end of this connector is located.

What is DB9 Pin Connector Used For?

DB9 connectors were commonly used for serial peripheral devices like keyboards, mice, joysticks, etc. Also they are used on DB9 cable assemblies for data connectivity. Most contemporary interfaces, including USB, PS/2, Firewire, and others, have largely supplanted the DB9 in use today.

What is the Difference Between DE-9 and DB9?

The DE-9 D-sub 9-pin connector is often mistakenly referred to as the “DB-9” connector. The “E” refers to the shell size. A “DB-25” connector has a “B” size shell, but the common nine-pin connector is smaller and has an “E” size shell. There are numerous uses for this connector, whatever name you give it.

The Bottom Line

These nine-pin connectors are available in vertical or right-angle orientations for top or side cable entry.

D-subs are available in a wide range of plating options to meet application cycles plus a wide range of mounting options for very secure connections.

If you want to learn more about different connectors, read our posts below: