Looking for a connector system - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: gcewing
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 01:56:29 am
content: I'd like to set up a standard power connection system for my projects, and I'm looking for a suitable type of connector. The features I want are:Capable of carrying an amp or twoAt least 4 pins, to accommodate +5V, +12V, -12V and groundSockets available in both panel and line versions, so I can make extension cordsNot ridiculously expensiveDifferent from anything typically used for signals (e.g. DIN, DB) to minimise chance of accidentsNot too hard to obtain in New ZealandDoes anyone have any suggestions? None of the things commonly available here seem to fulfill all of these.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 03:42:04 am
content: I was thinking of using the Molex Mini-Fit Jr system - the same that's used for ATX power supply cables.You can get pre-made 2x2, 2x3, 2x4 cables. Pre-crimped wires can be salvaged from ATX power supplies or ATX extension cables so you probably won't have to buy a crimper. Both horizontal and vertical board mounts are available. Some example listings from Aliexpress for housings and board mounts:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32868941893.htmlhttps://www.aliexpress.com/item/32827734608.html

author: forrestc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 04:08:45 am
content: For all of my DC power stuff I use Anderson Powerpole connectors, and have been known to assemble 4 of them in a weird alignment so that they can be used as a 4 pin connector. I don't solder these on the boards typically as they're a bit larger than I think you're thinking of.I typically just use one pair, color coded, for each rail I'm bringing in. I.E. black and some other color for ground/return and the "powered" wire..... BUT, my stuff is typically higher power, and i'm generally doing wire to wire, but there are PCB mount and panel mount options available.You didn't specify what size you're looking for but another option is the 3.96mm pitch connectors which are fairly common in different sizes. You can get both male and female versions in various styles, but not sure about panel mount.

author: antintedo
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 04:49:16 am
content: Check out Chinese circular 12mm or 16mm connectors. Often described as GX12/GX16 or XS12/XS16. Both genders are available for panel and cable mounting. Male thread versions can be soldered to PCB, however they are a bit large for internal use.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 05:27:51 am
content: Quote from: gcewing on September 05, 2019, 01:56:29 amThe issue you will find is the conflict between points 3 and 5.All the cheap stuff is cheap because it's made in huge volume and is found on common devices.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 06:14:07 am
content: Quote from: gcewing on September 05, 2019, 01:56:29 amAutomotive trailer plugs & sockets ----- either the round "DIN" ones or the skinny rectangular ones.There may be a problem with "3" however for the former, as the male usually has massive great mounting "ears", which may be a bit unwieldy.What would probaby have been used back in the day, were old style "Jones" plugs.