What should I look for in a Power Connector?

There are dedicated power connectors and connectors that can be used to transfer power, even if they are not dedicated. No matter the type, though, there are many factors to consider.

Voltage rating: Even at low currents, if a voltage is too high, there may be a breakdown in insulation, unwanted sparking, or stray uncontrolled voltage.

Current rating: Most challenges relating to current are related to heat, connectors must be able to withstand the heat generated by the currents expected.

User safety features: Most connectors isolate any bare metal so that accidental contact with the end user cannot happen while it is powered, but not all of them are and this may be important in some applications.

Security: If an essential device requires uninterrupted power, it is always best to use some sort of mating lock that will make it so unintentional disruptions are less likely to occur.

Mating Connections: Connections are two-way and it is wise to consider what the power connector should be able to connect to, and just as importantly, what it should not be able to connect to.

Power connectors make up the backbone of any modern device and should not be disregarded or considered as secondary. Proper selection of a power connector will make the design and use of any new product that much easier.