7- and 13-pin sockets are used to connect your camper to the towing vehicle (usually a car or van) and ensure the transmission of electrical signals necessary for the operation of lights, brakes, turn signals, and other functions between your camper and the towing vehicle.

7-pin sockets

7-pin sockets are the most traditional and have long been the standard connection between the towing vehicle and the camper. Generally, these sockets allow the transmission of basic signals such as:

Rear lights (brake lights, position lights, license plate lights) : Allow you to connect the camper lights to those of the car for synchronized lighting.

Direction indicators : Transmit the direction indicator signal (arrows) of the towing vehicle to the camper.

Brakes : Sign for the camper's brakes.

7-pin sockets are usually suitable for simpler installations and are most commonly found in older campers or vehicles that don't require additional functions. These sockets can have 2 or 3 pins for powering lights , and the remaining 4 or 5 for other functions such as turn signals.

13-pin sockets

13-pin sockets are a more modern and versatile version, offering a wider range of functions than the 7-pin version. This type has become the standard for modern vehicles and campers. 13-pin sockets allow you to transmit:

Rear lights (brake lights, side lights, license plate lights) : As with the 7-pin socket, it allows you to synchronize the rear lights.

Direction indicators : Like the 7-pin socket, it manages the signal for the indicators.

Brakes : Also includes the brake signal.

Power supply for the camper battery (12V) : One of the main advantages of the 13-pin sockets is that they also transmit power to charge the camper battery during the journey, while the towing vehicle is moving.

Trailer temperature detection : If the camper is equipped with refrigeration or heating systems, the 13-pin socket also allows you to manage the energy flow required for their operation.

Reversing signals and emergency brakes : The 13-pin sockets are also designed to integrate additional functions such as reversing signals or emergency brakes (if equipped in the vehicle or camper).

In general, the 13-pin socket is the one recommended for more modern vehicles and for those who need to power the camper or use additional functions such as charging the camper's battery while traveling.