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Connector opinions?

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IncrdblHulk7:
I am beginning planning for a modular panel setup.  I was just wondering what kind of connectors people are using and any advice.  For the setup I am planning, I would need somewhere between 15-25 connectors on the largest connector - this kinda rules out RJ45 (unless I do multiple jacks)

I have mainly been pricing out D-Sub and Molex connectors.  I have worked with solder-cup D-Sub connectors before - and while they might be cheap, soldering the wires on can be a pain (any tricks to make it easier?).  It seems like the crimp D-Sub connectors all require a very expensive crimper tool.  

I figure I will just use Molex connectors for any internal break-away wiring I do between panel housing Ipac and OptiPac.  But, I like the fancier look of the D-Sub connector for the interface to the modular panels.  I guess I could always use the panel mount Molex connectors - as they seem to be alot easier to work with.

Also, has anyone tried the Molex solder-tail terminals - wondering if they are easier to use the crimp style - and it would save money on crimper.

Any advice?  

 

Landstander:

--- Quote ---I would need somewhere between 15-25 connectors on the largest connector - this kinda rules out RJ45 (unless I do multiple jacks)
--- End quote ---

Are your modules going to each take up the full control panel? If not, I actually think it helps your flexibility if you use multiple jacks for connecting panels. Splitting out the buttons from the joystick directions allows you to mix and match different pieces as needed. Plus, making cables and connectors with RJ45 jacks is pretty easty.
Here are visio drawings of the setup I am going to use that I think will allow easy mixing and matching of components.
http://www.aracnet.com/~stigmata/mame/ipac.gif
http://www.aracnet.com/~stigmata/mame/optipac.gif
I linked to them since they are pretty wide....

NoOne=NBA=:
The absolute "must-have" piece of equipment for soldering those connectors is a small project vise from Radio Shack.

It has two little arms on it that are articulated, like a robot arm, and end in alligator clips.
That lets you put the connector in one arm, and the wire in the other, and move them both around, to get them into position for soldering.

Also, fill ALL the solder cups with solder, and tin the ends of the wires before you insert them.
That lets you melt the solder in the cup really quickly, and push the wire in until it sets up.

Tiger-Heli:

--- Quote from: IncrdblHulk7 on July 15, 2004, 09:25:16 am ---I am beginning planning for a modular panel setup.  I was just wondering what kind of connectors people are using and any advice.  For the setup I am planning, I would need somewhere between 15-25 connectors on the largest connector - this kinda rules out RJ45 (unless I do multiple jacks)

I have mainly been pricing out D-Sub and Molex connectors.  I have worked with solder-cup D-Sub connectors before - and while they might be cheap, soldering the wires on can be a pain (any tricks to make it easier?).  It seems like the crimp D-Sub connectors all require a very expensive crimper tool.  

I figure I will just use Molex connectors for any internal break-away wiring I do between panel housing Ipac and OptiPac.  But, I like the fancier look of the D-Sub connector for the interface to the modular panels.  I guess I could always use the panel mount Molex connectors - as they seem to be alot easier to work with.

Also, has anyone tried the Molex solder-tail terminals - wondering if they are easier to use the crimp style - and it would save money on crimper.

Any advice?  


--- End quote ---
DB 25's or DB37 will be your best bet.  

Look for RS-232 M/F serial extension cables (not null-modem which may not have all pins wired.)  They used to be on pricewatch.com for $2-3 for ten foot cables.  Cut it in half and wire one end to the panel and the other to the encoder - no soldering or crimping.

Another option is a cut flat ribbon HD cable and IDC DB25 connectors, but thess get pricey ($5-7 per connector, usually).

Sapper:
I used a thirty-seven pin solder connector for my panel, and I have regretted it ever since.  Although the controls are working now, the soldering process must have melted some of the plastic within the connector, causing me unbelievable shorting problems with my IPAC.  It took a lot of diagnostic time and resoldering to solve this problem.   Sometimes I still get little problems here and there where pressing a button will give me a surprise result.  

Nothing sucks more than trying to play R-Type and launching your rover unexpectedly and without intent...

If and when I rewire the panel, I think I will use a ribbon wire, cut it in half, and solder the individual wires to the switches.  Instant connections.

Cheers.

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