T.R.S.

Overview

The term "T.R.S." is used to describe a three-conductor 1/4" "phone" plug similar to a headphone plug.

History

The T.R.S. connector was originally developed for use in telephone switchboards. It is widely used in audio applications for making balanced audio connections.

Basics

The T.R.S. connector is a 1/4" diameter "phone" plug that has three conductors:

1. The "tip" which is the conductor at the tip of the plug
2. The "ring" which is the middle conductor
3. The "sleeve" which is the longest conductor furthest from the tip.

This type of connector is typically wired as follows:

• The tip is connected to the "high" signal conductor, which may also be designated the "+" conductor as it will carry the non-inverted signal of a balanced pair.

8The ring is connected to the "low" signal conductor, which may also be designated the "-" conductor as it will carry the inverted signal of a balanced pair.

• The sleeve is connected to the Shield/signal return.

In the vast majority of cases, a shielded twisted-pair cable is used for cables with T.R.S. connectors on one or both ends.