Gold-Plated DB15 Male VGA Connector Pins
Electronic Component (Hardware) · Hard Gold Plating (Cobalt or Nickel hardened yellow gold alloy for wear resistance).
Purity: Flash gold plating, typically 99.9% pure gold content in the plating layer, covering a base metal of brass or phosphor bronze. The total gold content is extremely low, usually measured in microns (3μ" to 30μ").
Type
Electronic Component (Hardware)
Purity
Flash gold plating, typically 99.9% pure gold content in the plating layer, covering a base metal of brass or phosphor bronze. The total gold content is extremely low, usually measured in microns (3μ" to 30μ").
Gold Type
Hard Gold Plating (Cobalt or Nickel hardened yellow gold alloy for wear resistance).
Weight
Total gold weight is negligible, estimated at less than 0.005 grams per connector. The bulk weight is comprised of steel, brass, and plastic.
Description
A high-density D-subminiature (DB15) VGA connector featuring gold-plated interface pins. These components utilize gold for its high electrical conductivity and superior resistance to corrosion, ensuring signal integrity in analog video transmissions.
Key Features
15-pin configuration, gold-flashed metallic shield, and integrated screw-down fasteners for secure hardware attachment.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold luster on pins and shield; shows industrial matte to semi-bright finish with significant oxidation, dust, and surface grime.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. Industrial connectors typically lack precious metal hallmarks; they may occasionally have manufacturer logos or 'UL' safety stamps on the plastic housing.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard DE-15 connector, approximately 31mm width by 13mm height.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Functional industrial components only.
Clasp & Closure
Screw-type mounting lugs for secure female-to-male connection.
Chain & Links
N/A - Solid conductive pins and a metal shroud (shielding).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped metal shroud with friction-fitted, gold-plated copper alloy pins set into a molded plastic insulator.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive deep yellow hue characteristic of industrial gold flashing; absence of green 'verdigris' on the pins themselves despite shield corrosion suggests a gold protective layer.
Origin & Maker
Mass-produced electronic component; likely of East Asian origin (China or Taiwan).
Era & Period
Modern Computing Era (Late 1980s to early 2010s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2005 based on the style of the braided cable and connector housing.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Analog Age' of computing and the transition to high-fidelity visual displays in the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface corrosion on the metal shield, heavy dust accumulation, and evidence of oxidation on the gold-plated pins.
Value Estimate
Industrial scrap value only. The 'melt' value of the gold is fractions of a cent. Market value is as a used legacy cable, typically $1-$5.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; clean pins with high-percentage isopropyl alcohol and a soft brush for better electrical contact.
Similar Items
HDMI connectors, USB contacts, and CPU pins; these all use varying thicknesses of gold plating for the same functional purposes.
Interesting Facts
Gold is used in electronics not for value, but because it does not tarnish. Without gold plating, computer connections would fail within months due to oxidation forming an insulating layer.