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How to read audio jack switches and schematics?
When looking at a seemingly simple audio jack datasheet, you will often find an array of schematics with a variation of switches and connections. In this post, we are going to look at how to read these schematics, describe the various switch types available, and discuss how they are implemented in audio applications. What is a Switch?
Are there any audio jacks without a switch?
Audio jacks are available without switches, with simple switches, or with complex switching systems. These switches are often represented in a schematic for the connector available on the datasheet. Below are some typical schematics that show some of those switching options.
How many conductors are in an audio jack?
Before we get to the switch function, first we need to understand how to read an audio jack schematic. Audio plugs can come with as few as 2 conductors up to 6 or more conductors. For this example, we will focus on the standard stereo connector with 3 conductors.
Where are the terminals on an audio jack?
The connector contains ordinary tip and ring contacts, although terminals 4-6 are isolated from the audio signals on terminals 1-3. When no plug is inserted, terminals 4 and 5 are connected. Inserting the plug opens terminals 4 and 5, and instead connects terminals 5 and 6.
How is a SPDT switch connected to an audio jack?
In this example, terminals 4~6 are electrically independent of the audio signals 1~3. This utilizes a SPDT switch in which terminals 4 and 5 are connected in the un-plugged state, and then terminals 5 and 6 would be connected in a plugged state.
What is the datasheet for an audio jack?
The datasheet for a given audio jack describes the combinations of conductors and switches available and how to specify them.
What are the wires for a stereo jack?
Separate insulated wires for the ground, right audio, and left audio inside a. a third arrow as opposed to a wire joining to the sleeve (the rectangle).