Phono ("RCA") Connector Answers

Question: What does this connector look like?

Head-on View (Plug)

Side View (Plug)

Head-on View (Jack)

Side View (Jack)

Question: What variations of this connector are available?

Answer: The primary variations are in configuration, plating, connection method and shielding. The two configuration variations are the right-angle connector and the piggyback connector, shown below.

Right-angle Plug
Allows easier connection in tight areas.
Side view of Right-angle Phono Plug

Piggyback Plug
Allows multiple connections for custom hookups.
Side view of Piggyback Phono Plug

Plating	Advantage
Nickel-plated	Costs less.
Gold-plated	Greater corrosion resistance and conductivity.

Connection Method	Advantage
Solderless	Easier to connect to the cable. Doesn't require a soldering iron.
Solder-type	More secure connection to the cable.

Shielding	Advantage
Shielded	Greater resistance to RF (radio-frequency) interference.

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Question: What is this connector used for?

Answer: Phono connectors are used for line-level audio connections, video connections and some speaker connections.

This is the standard connector for audio/video signals. They are usually color-coded with Yellow for Video, Red for Right Audio and White for Left Audio. RCA stands for "Radio Corporation of America", which set this connector as a standard.

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Question: What cable or cables are used with this connector?

Answer: Phono connectors are primarily used with speaker cable.

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Question: How is this connector attached to the cable?

Answer: A standard phono connector attaches to the conductor in a single-conductor cable.

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Question: Where can I get this type of connector?

Answer: Phono ("RCA") connectors can be ordered on-line, through your local RadioShack store, or by calling our order center at 800-241-8742.

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