How to Use Universal Barrel Jack Male: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Universal Barrel Jack Male is a cylindrical connector commonly used for power supply connections in electronic devices. It features a central pin for positive voltage and an outer sleeve for ground, making it a reliable and straightforward solution for delivering DC power. This component is widely used in prototyping, DIY electronics, and consumer devices due to its simplicity and compatibility with a variety of power sources.

• Powering Arduino boards, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontrollers
• Connecting DC power adapters to electronic circuits
• Prototyping and breadboard projects
• Consumer electronics such as routers, modems, and small appliances

The following table outlines the key technical details of the Universal Barrel Jack Male:

The Universal Barrel Jack Male has two main contact points:

1. Identify the Polarity: Ensure that the central pin is connected to the positive voltage (V+) and the outer sleeve is connected to ground (GND). Reversing the polarity may damage your circuit.
2. Connect to a Power Source: Insert the Universal Barrel Jack Male into a compatible female barrel jack or power socket. Ensure a snug fit for a reliable connection.
3. Soldering: If soldering the barrel jack to wires or a PCB, use heat-resistant wires and ensure proper insulation to avoid short circuits.
4. Testing: Use a multimeter to verify the voltage and polarity before connecting the barrel jack to your circuit.

• Voltage and Current Ratings: Ensure the power source does not exceed the voltage and current ratings of the barrel jack or the connected device.
• Avoid Short Circuits: Double-check connections to prevent short circuits between the central pin and the outer sleeve.
• Compatibility: Verify that the barrel jack dimensions (5.5 mm outer diameter, 2.1 mm inner diameter) match the female connector or power socket.
• Strain Relief: Use strain relief mechanisms to prevent damage to the connector or wires during use.

The Universal Barrel Jack Male is commonly used to power an Arduino UNO. Below is an example of how to connect it:

1. Connect the central pin of the barrel jack to the positive terminal of a 9V DC power supply.
2. Connect the outer sleeve to the ground terminal of the power supply.
3. Insert the barrel jack into the Arduino UNO's DC power input socket.

If you are powering an Arduino UNO with the barrel jack, you can use the following code to blink an LED connected to pin 13:

// This code blinks an LED connected to pin 13 of the Arduino UNO.
// Ensure the Arduino is powered via the Universal Barrel Jack Male.

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output pin
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. Loose Connection: The barrel jack may not fit snugly into the female connector.

   • Solution: Ensure the dimensions of the male and female connectors match (5.5 mm outer diameter, 2.1 mm inner diameter). Replace the connector if it is worn out.

2. Polarity Reversal: Connecting the central pin to ground and the outer sleeve to positive voltage.

   • Solution: Use a multimeter to verify the polarity before connecting the barrel jack to your circuit.

3. Overheating: The barrel jack becomes hot during operation.

   • Solution: Check that the current does not exceed the 5A rating. Use a power source with appropriate voltage and current ratings.

4. Intermittent Power: The circuit powers on and off unexpectedly.

   • Solution: Inspect the solder joints and connections for any loose or damaged wires. Ensure the barrel jack is securely inserted into the female connector.

Q: Can I use the Universal Barrel Jack Male with a 12V power supply?
A: Yes, the barrel jack supports voltages from 3V to 24V DC. Ensure the connected device is compatible with 12V.

Q: Is the barrel jack waterproof?
A: No, the Universal Barrel Jack Male is not waterproof. Avoid exposing it to moisture or liquids.

Q: Can I use this barrel jack for AC power?
A: No, the barrel jack is designed for DC power only. Using it with AC power may damage the component or connected devices.

Q: How do I prevent the barrel jack from disconnecting accidentally?
A: Use a locking mechanism or secure the connection with cable ties or adhesive clips to prevent accidental disconnection.

This concludes the documentation for the Universal Barrel Jack Male. For further assistance, consult your device's user manual or contact the manufacturer.