[Want] Small 4-way connectors  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 01:04:07 pm
content: I am currently using Binder 710 series connectors (cable plug, chassis socket, but maybe cable socket too):Binder 710 rangeThese are pretty expensive, though (although not quite as silly as my original choice of Triad01), so I am looking for more reasonably priced alternatives. A connector shouldn't cost more than the thing it's connecting IMV!Requires characteristics include some means of locking (so the connector won't fall out, but can be removed when required), minimum of four ways but could accept six (or eight if particularly easy to solder), chassis connector (but PCB would be a nice option).

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 02:59:34 pm
content: This question is too broad to answer.At least specify the required voltage and current of operation, required IP, etc.You need just a couple of them or a full truckload?I can only think of the industrial M8 connectors, as similar alternative to your type.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 03:22:17 pm
content: QuoteSame as the Binder jobbies, and not detailed at the moment because they are for one-off opportunistic purposes. Kind of like how you might have a stock of SIL Molex connectors. But, typically, the spec is <30V, <1A, no need to be waterproof or dustproof (althoughsometimesit would be nice if they were).QuoteRight now, none. I am forward planning so that when I do reach into that drawer, my hand won't come out empty. I've just used my last couple for a project and figured I should stock up on them, but the price is why I've run outThe M8s look promising, thanks, but aren't any cheaper (I think the Binder is meant to be a cheap version of those) and a bit bulky in the body.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 03:36:57 pm
content: How about tqa/ta4/mini xlr , 4 pin, locking and widely available from several manufacturers.

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 03:41:07 pm
content: However those M8 are I think pretty water proof, especially when the plastic over-molded pigtails (cable+connector one piece assy) are concerned.If it is for one-offs diy home-bastlering, I would browse aliexpress. There are metric tonns of interesting connectors, mostly indistinguishable copies of the brand name ones, including Fischer/Lemo. I do not stock many of these connectors, only some leftovers from different jobs.For sub-contracting jobs, I don't care what the connector costs. If it fits the purpose, I buy it, customer pays it.//EDIT: Beware of miniXLR, they are hell of a shit. Very unreliable.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 03:57:12 pm
content: QuoteOnly had minimal problems with them in 20+ years of using then,we've had more failures of the equipment on the other end than the actual connectors.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 03:57:59 pm
content: Ah, Aliexpress - should've thought to look there! Thanks for reminding me

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 04:15:50 pm
content: Quote from: themadhippy on August 28, 2019, 03:57:12 pmProbably depends on the type of "using them". For stationary use (just plug & leave it) probably fine. But having to actually reapair numerous connectors on microport microphones, portable audio UHF transmitters etc, I would not call miniXLR anywhere close to reliable and robust. Almost always broken off plastic connectors and trashed female pins in the connenctors.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 04:53:46 pm
content: QuoteSimilar use to us,mainly shure mics and trantec radios. wouldnt say inside a kick drum or strapped a hyper active muso is the most stationary of locations

author: reboots
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 05:28:09 pm
content: I have used Switchcraft/Conxall Micro-Con-X connectors. They appear similar to the Binder 710 line, but are IP67 rated and perhaps a couple USD cheaper apiece.http://www.switchcraft.com/Category.aspx?Parent=855Electroshield is the least expensive and best stocked US distributor:https://www.electroshield.com/index.php?route=product/series&manu_series_id=54The Micro-Con-X line is intended for assembly with specialized (and rather expensive) crimping and insertion tools. Assembly is possible with soldering and basic hand tools, but you might want to trial a couple connectors to see if that's within your comfort zone.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2019, 09:03:54 pm
content: The Switchcraft looked initially promising, thanks. But, as you note, it's designed for expensive tools and the UK prices are pretty much the same as the Binders.Just spent a happy while on Aliexpress and have a selection of M8-type coming for perusal.