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Connector's for Swappable panels?
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mountain:
Molex makes a line of connectors for similar applications called BMI (Blind Mate Interface). They have a self aligning feature that is perfect for this.

Here are a few examples. 3 is probably the best IMO.

Link 1

Link 2

Link 3
CheffoJeffo:
I recall Ken Layton pointing out that Molex connectors had a limited life span, so they were probably not the best option for connectors that would be frequently cycled.

While I can't find Ken's post, I do note the following from Marvin3M, which reinforces what Franco says (and may be his source for the 25 use life cycle):


--- Quote ---The style of Panduit and Molex connectors used in pinball generally have a 25 "cycle" life span (a "cycle" is one removal and re-installation of a connector). And frankly, after as few as five cycles, there could be problems because of the high vibration pinball environment, the reduced terminal pin tension, and the age of many games.
--- End quote ---

http://marvin3m.com/connect/index.htm#worn

 :cheers:

EDIT: Other posts since I start writing this, but I think it still holds to the point ...

EDIT2: I've been looking at the BMI spec, but can't seem to find a reference to cycle life span (other than "high").
patrickl:

--- Quote from: Necro on November 20, 2008, 01:58:42 pm ---And...honestly...I can't solder worth a damn and working with the DB connectors frightens me a bit because of the small size.  What is a 'solder cup'?  Not sure I've see that or know what it is?
--- End quote ---
Soldering wires into a DB connector is the easiest thing you can do. You slide the wire into a little tube and fill it with solder.
mountain:

--- Quote from: CheffoJeffo on November 20, 2008, 02:02:08 pm ---I recall Ken Layton pointing out that Molex connectors had a limited life span, so they were probably not the best option for connectors that would be frequently cycled.

While I can't find Ken's post, I do note the following from Marvin3M, which reinforces what Franco says (and may be his source for the 25 use life cycle):


--- Quote ---The style of Panduit and Molex connectors used in pinball generally have a 25 "cycle" life span (a "cycle" is one removal and re-installation of a connector). And frankly, after as few as five cycles, there could be problems because of the high vibration pinball environment, the reduced terminal pin tension, and the age of many games.
--- End quote ---

http://marvin3m.com/connect/index.htm#worn

 :cheers:

EDIT: Other posts since I start writing this, but I think it still holds to the point ...

--- End quote ---

Molex makes tons of different types of connectors for tons of different applications. As you know, many people refer to the plugs commonly found in arcade cabs as molex plugs. I have a Molex catalog that is 1 1/2" thick, 90% of it is their connector lines.

I am sure the reason he said that they were not meant to be cycled over and over is due to the lack of a strain relief system. Without it, the wires would break near the crimp rather soon from the constant pulling.
TheShanMan:

--- Quote from: Necro on November 20, 2008, 01:58:42 pm ---What is a 'solder cup'?  Not sure I've see that or know what it is?

--- End quote ---

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