Plunger Tip
- Contacts the Unit Under Test (UUT).
- Proper configuration is critical for good contact and electrical performance.
Plunger Shaft
- The cylindrical part is critical to pointing accuracy of probe assembly.
- Primary point of electrical contact between plunger barrel.
- Probe life is influenced by the plunger shaft’s wear characteristics.
Crimp
- A precise deformation of the barrel at a specific location retains the plunger tail.
- A spin crimp, dimple crimp, or a roll over crimp may be used depending on the probe series.
Plunger Tail
- The enlarged bottom part of the plunger that retains the plunger.
- Secondary point of electrical contact between the plunger and the barrel.
Barrel
- Housing for spring and guides the plunger.
- Typically completely housed by the mating receptacle.
- Important electrical link between plunger and receptacle.
Spring
- Helical coil spring for maintaining a consistent counter force to the plunger.
- Force determined by application.
- Base material determines probe performance in extreme temperatures.
Receptacle Terminology:
Press Ring
- Larger than recommended mounting hole; deforms slightly for press-fit into mounting hole.
Alignment Bulge
- Aligns receptacle in mounting hole prior to installation.
Barrel Housing
- Critical electrical link which houses the barrel of the probe.
Detent
- Provides retention and electrical connection to probe barrel.
- Single or multiple detents based upon size.
Wire Termination
- Means to connect wire for electrical passage.
- Configured for crimping, soldering, wire wrapping, terminal insertion, or with preattached wire.