D-Subminiature Cables:  The Backshell Problem

D-Subminiature cables are still used in many different applications.  They are durable and securely lock down using screws and standoffs.  As a standard, they have long been used to transmit serial data and are still ideal for that use. 

One of the problems with D-Sub cables is the large “backshell” behind the connector.  The backshell can come either assembled or molded, but either way it is bulky and therefore difficult to plug in a D-Sub cable in tight spaces.

L-com has addressed this problem with right angle D-Sub adapters.  The adapters only take up 1.2 inches including the mating screws, where as directly connecting a D-Sub cable can take 2.5 inches or more. The adapters are molded with gray PVC for durability and resiliency. They are also fully shielded to ensure EMI/RFI protection.  The screw hardware is reversible so you can mount the adapters to a panel or wallplate with ease.

Right Angle Adapter “Exit” Types

Due to the unique “D-shape” of a D-Subminiature connector, there is a definite top and bottom.  When choosing a right angle D-Sub adapter, you have to be conscious of which direction you want the connectors to face. The directions that the cables can plug into a right angle D-Sub adapter are called the “exit” types.

Click here for an in-depth diagram of the different exit types.

L-com offers three exit types. Telling them apart can be difficult.  The best method to determine which right angle adapter you need is to look at the D-Sub connector you are mating to. If you have a female connector with the long part of the D on top as in this image, exit 1 will bend upward and exit 2 will bend downward.  If you have a male connector with the long part of the D on top, then exit 1 and 2 will both bend upward and exit 3 will bend downward.

Of course if you have any questions about the bend direction of one of our right angle D-Sub adapters, you can always call our Technical Support department at 1-800-341-5266 for complimentary answers to your questions.