Summary of Major DC Port Sizes and Types
A comprehensive summary of DC port sizes and types. Learn key considerations when choosing solar panels or portable power stations.
Posted at: 2024.7.8
What is a DC Port?
A DC port is a connection port used for transmitting direct current (DC). It is commonly used in electronic devices such as laptops, external hard drives, and routers.
In portable power stations, DC ports are used for both input and output. Many portable power stations also feature a DC cigarette lighter socket.
Main Sizes and Types of DC Ports
The size and type of DC port connectors are expressed as "outer diameter of the connector x inner pin diameter." For example, the most commonly used DC port size, 5.5mm outer diameter and 2.1mm inner pin diameter, is called "DC5521."
| Standard | Size | Features |
|---|---|---|
| DC5521 | 5.5mm x 2.1mm | One of the most common sizes, widely used in laptops and monitors, and easily available. |
| DC5525 | 5.5mm x 2.5mm | A slightly larger inner pin diameter than DC5521. |
| DC7955/DC7909 | 7.9mm x 5.5mm x 0.9mm | Used in devices that require a high current. |
| Cigarette Lighter Socket | 21mm x 35mm | Standard for car cigarette lighter sockets. |
DC Ports Offer Abundant Converter Options
DC ports are the most versatile input/output terminals for power supplies, featuring a simple male and female structure. Therefore, a wide variety of converter connectors and cables are available.
You can convert between different DC connector sizes, and cables that convert to other connectors like XT60 are also available.
So even if the size doesn’t match, you can usually solve the issue with a converter.
Key Points for Choosing a DC Port
Solar Panels and DC Ports
If a solar panel has a DC port as an output, it is often a DC5521.
While DC5521 is a versatile port size, not all portable power stations accept DC input. Some can only accept inputs through MC (Anderson) or XT60 connectors.
Therefore, when purchasing a solar panel with a DC port, make sure to either find a model that matches the input port of your portable power station or prepare a converter connector.
Portable Power Stations and DC Ports
Most portable power stations come with some form of DC output. While it's tempting to think, "Even if the DC port doesn't match, I can just use the AC port," it’s better to choose one that matches the DC port you plan to use.
The reason is that using the AC port will activate the portable power station’s inverter, consuming around 10W of power continuously. This wasteful consumption can be avoided by using DC output devices directly from the DC port, which is the best practice for prolonged use.