Schematic Wiring of Combined Female XLR / 1/4" Neutrik NCJ6FI-S

Hello, electronics enthusiasts!

Today we're going to dive deep into the world of professional audio connectors with a definitive guide on the Neutrik NCJ6FI-S Combined Female XLR/1/4" Plug. If you work with sound systems, build equipment, or are simply an audio enthusiast, this article will solve all your doubts about this essential component.

First of all, I need to clarify a crucial point that many professionals still have doubts about: this NCJ6FI-S combined connector is specially designed for "snake" type audio panels - those you see on the sides of mixing consoles or in professional racks, with multiple inputs strategically organized.

🔍 Why the NCJ6FI-S is Gold for Audio Panels (Snakes)?

The snake (or breakout box) is a fundamental component in any professional audio system, serving as a central hub for connections between microphones, instruments, and the mixing console. The Neutrik NCJ6FI-S connector has become the gold standard for these applications for three main reasons:

1. Space saving - In an audio panel where every centimeter counts, having a single connector that accepts both XLR and 1/4" is revolutionary
2. Operational flexibility - Allows the sound technician to connect any type of source without needing adapters
3. Signal integrity - Designed to maintain the quality of balanced audio even with mixed connections.

🔌 Pin Layout in the Neutrik Female Plug: Understanding the Connector's DNA

Let's unravel together the internal architecture of this little giant. There are 4 main models in Neutrik's line of combined connectors, but what interests us today, and the most used in professional audio panels, is the NCJ6FI-S with its 7 contact pins intelligently distributed.

Fig. 2 - Pinout of XLR/1/4" Neutrik Connector

What makes this connector so special is how it manages two different connection protocols in a single body: the 3-pin XLR (for balanced signals) and the 3-section 1/4" TRS (for stereo or balanced mono). It's like having two connectors in one, without losing quality!

Fig. 3 - Schematic Diagram of Neutrik NCJ6FI-S Neutrik

Practical analogy: Think of the NCJ6FI-S as an "audio international airport". Just as an airport receives flights from different airlines in connected terminals, this connector receives signals from different formats (XLR and 1/4") in a single "terminal", allowing them to share the same infrastructure without interference.

"TRS" - When You Need Direct Instrument Connection

Let's start with the most common scenario in studios and stages: direct connection of instruments like guitars, basses, and keyboards. When you're using only the 1/4" TRS connector, the connections follow a specific pattern that ensures signal integrity.

The secret lies in the three contact points of the 1/4":

• T (Tip) - The positive signal or left channel
• R (Ring) - The negative signal or right channel
• S (Sleeve) - The ground

In the diagram below (Figure 4), you'll see exactly how to make the connection when using only the 1/4" connector in your audio snake or audio panel project.

Fig. 4 - Schematic wiring of Neutrik NCJ6FI-S connector for TRS input connector

Pro tip for designers: When building your snake for instruments, use cables with double shielding for TRS connections. The NCJ6FI-S has excellent noise rejection, but good cable shielding perfectly complements its characteristics, eliminating that annoying hum during recordings!

"XLR" - For Microphones and Professional Balanced Signals

Now, when you're working with microphones or any other signal that needs a balanced connection, the XLR side of the connector comes into play. The XLR standard is the heart of professional audio systems, and understanding its pinout is fundamental.

On the XLR connector:

• Pin 1 - Ground (Shield/Ground)
• Pin 2 - Positive signal (Hot)
• Pin 3 - Negative signal (Cold)

This pinout pattern is crucial for noise rejection over long distances - an essential feature in any professional audio panel. The diagram below (Figure 5) shows exactly how to make the connection when using only the XLR connector in your project.

Fig. 5 - Schematic Wiring of Neutrik NCJ6FI-S for XLR Input Connector

Here's a detail that many experienced technicians still get confused about: the XLR standard for microphones is different from the XLR standard for speakers. In the case of the NCJ6FI-S, we're specifically talking about the standard for microphones (3-pin XLR), where pin 2 is "hot" and pin 3 is "cold".

⚡ Combined Connection: The Real Power of the NCJ6FI-S in Audio Panels

Now we come to the heart of our article: how to configure the connector to work with both types of connection simultaneously - which makes it the perfect component for snakes and professional audio panels.

The magic happens through a simple connection between the corresponding pins, creating a circuit that allows the signal to flow correctly regardless of the type of connector you're using. It's like having an "automatic switch" inside the connector!

Fig. 6 - Schematic wiring of Neutrik NCJ6FI-S for combined XLR/TRS connector

The combined connection follows these simple but fundamental rules:

This intelligent configuration is what allows you to connect an XLR microphone to a connector that also accepts 1/4", without needing manual switches or additional configurations. It's pure audio engineering in action!

"Mono" - Configuration for 1/4" TS (Mono) Connector

For applications that require only mono signal (like most musical instruments), you can simplify the connection using only two of the three contacts of the 1/4". This is the classic "TS" (Tip-Sleeve) configuration that you find in guitars and basses.

Fig. 7 - Wiring diagram of Neutrik NCJ6FI-S connector and TS - 1/4" connector

In this configuration:

• T (Tip) - Audio signal
• S (Sleeve) - Ground
• R (Ring) - Not connected (or connected to ground for better noise rejection)

⚙️ Technical Features That Make the NCJ6FI-S a Gold Standard in Professional Audio

Now that you already understand the logic behind the connections, let's dive into the technical specifications that make the Neutrik NCJ6FI-S the most reliable combined connector on the market. Don't worry - I'll explain each feature in a practical way, relating it to its real use in the day-to-day of professional audio.

🔧 Ultra-Low Contact Resistance: The Secret to Clean Signal

With contact resistance below 10 mΩ on the XLR and 20 mΩ on the 1/4", the NCJ6FI-S ensures that practically no signal is lost in the connection. This means that subtle detail in the vocalist's voice or the rich harmonic of the guitar arrives intact at the mixing console - without loss of quality or introduction of noise.

Practical tip: In large PA systems, where signals travel long distances, this low resistance is critical to avoid signal degradation. It's like having a perfectly smooth road for your audio signal to travel!

🛡️ Industrial Durability: Designed to Survive the Most Intense Shows

When you're working at professional events, you can't risk a connector failing in the middle of the show. The NCJ6FI-S was designed to withstand more than 1,000 connection/disconnection cycles without loss of quality - which means you can assemble and disassemble your system hundreds of times without worrying.

⚡ Specifications That Really Matter for Your Snake Project

Let's translate those technical tables provided by the manufacturer into clear and real parameters for your project. It's not enough to know the numbers - you need to understand how they impact your daily work:

🔗 Related Projects That May Be of Interest

❓Frequently Asked Questions About: Neutrik NCJ6FI-S (XLR/1/4") Connector - FAQ

1. What is the Neutrik NCJ6FI-S connector?

It's a combined receptacle that unites in a single body the female XLR and 1/4" (TRS/TS) connectors, allowing greater versatility in mixing consoles, audio equipment, and musical instruments.

2. What's the difference between XLR and 1/4" connections on the NCJ6FI-S?

• XLR (Canon): Used mainly for microphones and balanced signals.

• 1/4" TRS: Used for stereo or balanced connections.

• 1/4" TS: Used in mono signals, like guitars and basses.

3. How many pins does the connector have and how are they distributed?

• 4 pins dedicated to the XLR input.

• 3 pins dedicated to the TRS/TS (1/4") connector.

4. Is it possible to use the XLR and TRS inputs at the same time?

Yes. The combined connector allows parallel connection of XLR and TRS, just make the jumps between the corresponding pins (1 with S, 2 with T, 3 with R), as shown in the manufacturer's schematic diagram.

5. What are the main electrical characteristics of the NCJ6FI-S?

• Contact resistance: < 10 mΩ (XLR), < 20 mΩ (1/4").

• Rated current: up to 7.5 A per contact.

• Rated voltage: up to 50 V.

• Insulation resistance: > 10 GΩ.

• Dielectric withstand: 1.5 kVdc.

6. What are the advantages of using the NCJ6FI-S in audio projects?

• Space saving: A single connector replaces two.

• Versatility: Accepts XLR, TRS and TS.

• Durability: More than 1000 insertion/removal cycles.

• Robust construction: Made with high-quality materials from Neutrik.

💡 Professional Tips to Maximize Your NCJ6FI-S

After years of working with these connectors, I want to share some tips I've learned in practice - those that aren't in the manual, but make all the difference:

"Excellence in audio is in the details that most ignore. A quality connector is not a cost - it's an investment in the clarity of your sound." - Prof. Audio.

🚀 Conclusion: Transforming Knowledge into Audio Excellence

We've reached the end of this definitive guide on the Neutrik NCJ6FI-S, but in reality, it's just the beginning of your journey to master the art of professional audio panels. Remember that the quality of your system starts with the quality of the connections - and now you have all the necessary knowledge to create impeccable snakes.

Now that you master all the secrets of the NCJ6FI-S, you're prepared to elevate your audio projects to a new professional level. It doesn't matter if you're an experienced technician, a beginner designer, or an audio enthusiast - this knowledge will make all the difference in the quality of your work.

Original article published on FVML (Portuguese) – july 7, 2019

👋 I hope you enjoyed it!!!

If you have any questions, suggestions, or corrections, feel free to share them in the comments — we’ll be glad to help and improve this guide together!

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Best regards,
The ElCircuits Team ⚡

Fig. 1 - Arduino Lesson 5 - Reading Potentiometer and Showing Values On Serial Monitor

Welcome to Lesson 5 - Basic Arduino Course

Today we are going to learn how to read a Potentiometer end showing the Values on Serial Monitor.
In this example, we will use a potentiometer, however, this same concept is used for most analog sensors. 

What will differentiate will be the type of calculation used, with reference to each sensor.

We will use the analogRead() function, to read A0 PIN, in Arduino we have 6 Analog Ports, which goes from A0 to A5, so we can make readings from up to 6 sensors simultaneously without having to use external hardware.

Hardware Required

• Arduino Board
  
• A 10K Potentiometer
• Wires
• Protoboard (optional)

Fig. 2 - Reading Potentiometer and Showing Values On Serial Monitor - tinkercad.com

The Code

The analogRead() function converts the input voltage range, 0 to 5 volts, to a digital value between 0 and 1023. This is done by a circuit within the microcontroller called analog-to-digital converter, or ADC.

Then, if the voltage at the center pin is 0 volts, analogRead() returns 0. When the shaft is turned all the way the other way, there is no resistance between the middle pin and the pin connected to 5 volts. 

If the voltage on the middle pin is then 5 volts, analogRead() returns 1023. In between, analogRead() returns a number between 0 and 1023 that is proportional to the voltage applied to the pin.

After building the circuit, connect your Arduino board to your computer, launch Arduino Software (IDE), copy the code below and paste it into your Arduino IDE. But first let us understand the code line by line. 

• In Line 3, we declared variable sensorPin which is set to Analog Pin A0 where we receive the value of the connected potentiometer. 
• In Line 4, we create a variable senorPin that stores the value of the sensor that we also use for the potentiometer.

• In Line 6, we enter the void setup() function. This function is read only once when the Arduino is started.
  
  
• In Line 7, we begin serial communication by declaring the Serial.begin() function. At 9600 bits of data per second, this is the speed at which your computer will communicate with your Arduino Serial.

• After setting the initializations, in Line 10 we will enter the void loop() function.
  
  
• In Line 11, we use the variable sensorValue to store the resistance value, which is between 0 and 10K (read by the Arduino as a value between 0 and 1023) and controlled by the potentiometer.
  
  
• In Line 13, we use the command Serial.println(), it is print out the value controlled by the potentiometer, this value will read with value between 0 and 1023 in your Serial Monitor.
  
  
• In Line 14, we run the delay() function, for greater system stability.

The complete code is showed in the sketch below!

Simple 12V Battery Charger, automatic with charging indicator + PCB

Hello, electronics enthusiasts! 

Today we're going to dive into the fascinating world of smart battery chargers. If you've ever been frustrated with batteries that don't charge completely or with charging processes that require constant supervision, this project is for you!

We're going to build an automatic 12V battery charger with visual indicators for charging and full charge. Best of all? This is a project extremely simple to assemble, perfect for those starting out in electronics or for hobbyists who want a practical and efficient solution.

⏱️ Calculating Charging Time

One of the most common questions is: "How long will it take to charge my battery?" Let's solve this with a simple formula. Although we don't take into account factors like battery internal resistance or charger fluctuations, this calculation will give us an excellent approximation.

Let's use a practical example: you have a 12V 7Ah UPS battery, and your power supply provides 3A. How to calculate?

That is, your battery will take approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes to charge completely. If your power supply has a different current, just replace the values in the formula!

🔌 Circuit Schematic Diagram

The schematic diagram of the circuit Simple 12V Battery Charger, automatic with charging indicator + PCB is shown in Figure 2 below. This is a fairly simple circuit, with a basic to intermediate technical knowledge level for assembly.

Fig. 2 - Electronic Schematic of Simple Automatic 12V Battery Charger

Special recommendation: Check out our tutorial on how to adapt ATX power supplies for this purpose:

How to Modify ATX Power Supply to 13.6v, 22 Amperes

With this adapted power supply, you'll have the ideal voltage for your charger to work perfectly!

🔗 Related Content

If you liked this project, you might also be interested in these other articles:

• 3.7V Li-Ion Battery Charger Circuit using MCP73831 IC + PCB
• Lithium (Li-Ion) Battery Charger using LP2951 IC + PCB
• 12 Volts Automatic Lead Acid Battery Charger Using LM350 IC with PCB
• How To Make Rechargeable Emergency LED Light Using LM350 IC with PCB
• USB 5V 4A Car Charger using 78S05 with PCB

⚡ How to Use the 12V Battery Charger

Now that you've assembled your circuit, let's learn how to use it correctly. Follow these steps to ensure efficient and safe charging:

When the charger reaches the "voltage limit" that you adjusted, it will trigger the relay and light up the green LED, indicating that the battery has been fully charged. It's that simple!

The board dimensions are: Width 50.165mm and length 36.830mm. All technical information is included in the files available for download.

Fig. 3 - Printed Circuit Board with Component Layout

🎯 Maintenance and Safety Tips

To ensure proper functioning and longevity of your charger, here are some important tips:

🔄 Applications and Possible Improvements

Your new 12V battery charger can be used in various situations:

Possible improvements: You can add a digital display to show the current battery voltage, implement an overcurrent protection system, or even create a portable version with its own case.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions