Connectors

The Digilent® boards use several connectors for various purposes, but in general, they all communicate electronic information between the board and outside devices. By convention, connectors are given the reference designator “J_”. Since connectors come in so many different sizes and shapes, they are usually shown on the PCB silk screen and on circuit schematics as just rectangular boxes. The following connectors are used on various Digilent boards (but not all connectors appear on all boards):

• The PS/2 connector allows connection to a mouse or keyboard.
• The DB25 connector allows a parallel cable to be attached for programming or data transfers.
• The DB9 port is used for RS-232 serial communications.
• The DB15 connector can be used to drive a VGA monitor.
• Various DIP sockets can be used to load accessory chips and to access various signals.
• The power jack can accept any compatible DC power supply.
• The audio jack can be used to drive speakers or receive microphone inputs.
• The BNC connector allows for easy connection of test and measurement equipment.

• In general all connectors communicate electronic information between the board and outside devices. By convention, connectors are given the reference designator “J_”.
• Most connectors appear on the silk screen of a printed circuit board as simply a rectangle because they can take so many different shapes.