There are many reasons you may need to search for alternative electrical connector components including:
- Out of stock.
- Extended supply chain lead times.
- End-of-life/Obsolescence.
- Cost increases.
- Deficient quality, durability and reliability.
Engineers…You’ve already worked through the daunting task of specifying the precise electronic connector components for your application. How can you efficiently find a compatible alternative without reworking your whole spec?
Purchasing professionals…You’ve been tasked with finding alternative connector components that will seamlessly satisfy the current spec requirements. Where do you begin?
Connect With an Authorized Electronic Component Distributor
Authorized distributors have the expertise to understand your requirements and have a breadth of connector component manufacturer products from which to identify viable alternatives. They can do the leg work for you and provide options. Here’s a comprehensive guide for how to work efficiently with a distributor partner:
Cross-reference the original part numbers
The most efficient start to identifying a viable alternative connector component is to provide:
- Current part number(s): This may enable a cross-reference part to the original part numbers(s) you have already vetted and use successfully.
- Drawing or spec sheet: Drawings and/or spec sheets also guide the cross-reference research process.
Gather your requirements
Before diving into alternatives, it’s crucial for the distributor to have a clear understanding of your specific requirements:
- Application: Define where and how the connector will be used.
- Environmental Conditions: Share whether connectors will be exposed to moisture, dust, temperature extremes, vibration, and other environmental factors.
- Electrical Requirements: Spell out the voltage, current, and frequency needs.
- Mechanical Requirements: Define the mating cycles, durability, and physical space constraints.
Ensure compatibility and standards
To ensure any alternative connector is compatible with your existing system and meets industry standards tell the distributor required or desirable certifications such as:
- IP Ratings: Indicating the level of protection against dust and water.
- MIL-SPEC: Military standards for reliability and performance.
- RoHS Compliance: Restriction of Hazardous Substances.
- UL: Indicates the product meets local and federal environmental and safety regulations.
Consider electrical connector type and design
Consider the type and design of the connector:
- Shell Size and Configuration: Match the physical dimensions and pin configuration.
- Termination Style: Crimp, solder, or screw terminals.
- Coupling Mechanism: Preferred method such as bayonet, threaded, push-pull, or other coupling styles based on application needs.
- Material: Materials that provide the required strength, corrosion resistance, and conductivity.
Assess electrical performance
Specific electrical performance of the alternative connector:
- Contact Resistance: Lower contact resistance ensures better electrical performance.
- Insulation Resistance: High insulation resistance is essential for preventing leakage currents.
- Signal Integrity: For high-speed data applications, must ensure the connector maintains signal integrity.
Evaluate mechanical characteristics
Evaluating the mechanical properties:
- Durability: Quantify the number of mating cycles the connector can endure without degradation.
- Vibration and Shock Resistance: Identify any harsh environments in which the connector must perform.
- Cable Retention: Discuss any secure cable retention to prevent disconnections that may be needed.
Refer to component data
Spec sheets, drawings and other reference resources:
- Specification Sheets: Detailed mechanical, electrical, environmental and material specifications; certifications; product attributes; drawings with dimensions and contact placements; options; part number structure.
- CAD Drawings: Drop-in 2-D and 3-D drawings may be available.
Deploy rigorous testing and validation
The most important step before finalizing the alternative is, rigorous testing and validation are imperative:
- Prototype Testing: Distributor will provide prototypes for extensive testing.
- Environmental Testing: Testing should be conducted under expected environmental conditions.
- Field Testing: Where possible, prototypes can be deployed in real-world conditions to ensure reliability and performance.
Ensure future-proofing of the components
Don’t go through this exercise again. All recommendations should consider the long-term viability of the alternative:
- Product Lifecycle: Ensure the connector will be reliably available for the foreseeable future.
- Upgradability: Choose connectors that can accommodate potential future upgrades or changes in technology.
Compare cost and availability
While performance is crucial, cost and availability also play significant roles:
- Budget Constraints: Provide your budget parameters, without compromising essential features.
- Lead Time: Share your production scheduling and estimated annual usage (EAU) needs to ensure the availability and lead time are workable to avoid project delays.
- Supplier Reliability: We work with reputable manufacturers with good track records for quality and support. Distributor supply chain teams continuously monitor on-hand inventory levels and manufacturer lead times.
Conclusion
Selecting an alternative circular electrical connector involves careful consideration of numerous factors, from compatibility and standards to electrical and mechanical performance. By understanding your specific requirements and rigorously testing potential alternatives, an authorized distributor can ensure a reliable and cost-effective solution for your application.
Connect with us
Connect with us to assist with your connector component needs, especially if you need alternative recommendations. Work with us how you prefer…call in by phone at (800) 662-1054, email sales@electroshield.com or order at your convenience via our website.
