KOP new connectors

[mickztlin]

So today in the kit of parts (found Here (http://www.usfirst.org/sites/default/files/uploadedImages/Robotics_Programs/FRC/Game_and_Season__Info/2014/Black_Tote_2014.1.4.pdf)) we received two types of link connector. We didn't receive these last year and i was curious as to what they are for. (Really hope the answer isn't super obvious because that would be embarrassing :o )

[Foster]

Let me Google that for you (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=3m+two+and+four+position+link+connectors)

The first choice is the Digikey product page (http://www.digikey.com/product-highlights/us/en/3m-two-four-position-link-connectors/2255)with a description and links to more info.

You are very welcome!

[mickztlin]

Thanks for responding how you did, I had no idea how the internet works :rolleyes: . It's not like I wanted to know why FRC decided to send us these parts or the intended use in a FIRST robot (which is not covered in your reply).

[mickztlin]

I still don't understand what these were intended for.:confused:

[Michael Hill]

I still don't understand what these were intended for.:confused:

Assuming from the links given, servos (which we can use)

[Foster]

You got them because 3M makes a huge range of really wonderful, easy to use, connectors for a wide range of tasks. They want to give them to you so that you will use them on servo and sensor lines, rather than using hobby level parts.

They want you to be so thrilled with their connectors that the next time you need a connector you Google "3M connector to ...." and find the perfect 3M connector. A connector that is in your new device that you are planning to sell millions of.

The really are nice, sturdy connectors that can be crimped on the wire with pliers. Perfect for your robot.

3M™ Link Connectors - industrial grade discrete wiring solution for servo motors, controllers, and sensors
from the first line of the Digikey link

Good luck!

[PhilBot]

The really are nice, sturdy connectors that can be crimped on the wire with pliers. Perfect for your robot.

I will say that some basic instructions for the connector would have been useful. Maybe a link to the product page. I'm experienced and I didn't believe that these were self mating until I figured out how to assemble them.

Not so robust, as I broke a few retaining clips while trying to assemble.

Also, the wire is an odd size ... 19 AWG?? plus it's expensive... $30 for 5meters.

So it might be OK for some small motors, it's too big for our servos.

What scared me was that the pins are exposed inside the connector, and since it's male-male there is no insulation between the pairs of mating pins so any misalignment or flakes of metal will guarantee a short.

So.... interesting, but just throwing some in a bag wasn't the best way to encourage a good end-user experience :)

[Foster]

Here is the install guide for the 3M connectors. (http://multimedia.3m.com/mws/mediawebserver?mwsId=66666UuZjcFSLXTtOxMtMxMtEVuQE cuZgVs6EVs6E666666--&fn=811%202Positio%20LinkDisty%20.pdf) Looks pretty clear, but your mileage may vary.

The small connectors should be fine for 18 guage wire. (Are you sure you are not reading it as 19 strands inside 20 guage wire (that's a standard size)

Feel free to send your feedback to 3M -- 3M Customer Service at 800-225-5373. Thats another reason you got the part, they want to know about your experience(s).

[PhilBot]

Looks pretty clear.

Yeah.... With the instructions.
Clever... T-Splice as well as butt splice... who knew?

Do an experiment. Give the bag of the bits to one of your experienced electrical kids and ask them to make a cable (without showing them how). It could be interesting.

Yeah... it's 19 AWG... Odd eh?
http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/79100-075-4F1/MG04F-5-ND/3524456

[MrForbes]

Looks like if they were 3 position, instead of 2 or 4 position, they would make great extension cables for "PWM" cables.

We'll see what we can figure out to use them for....if anything....later on, when we get around to wiring

[Foster]

Do an experiment. Give the bag of the bits to one of your experienced electrical kids and ask them to make a cable (without showing them how). It could be interesting.


We have an amazing electroshock therapy program that teaches our roboteers to not assemble parts, use tools (expecially power tools) without prior training or reading the instructions. :rolleyes: So I'm going to guess they would do what I did, (since the instructions were not in the box) of googling "3M Link Connectors assembly instructions" and finding the PDF that I did.

Now if I could just get Mentors and parents that want to help out to do the same thing.

On the #19 wire, it's a weird size, I agree. For most of my stuff I use #20 multiconductor (4 flat), so the connectors work with that. The thinner #22 hobby wire may be a problem with loose connections (never tried). On the other hand, you are paying $12,000 for two events, so $20 of good wire does not seem like a huge expense.

Looks like if they were 3 position, instead of 2 or 4 position, they would make great extension cables for "PWM" cables.
You can always leave a slot (connection?) empty. So 3 wires in the 4 wire connector.

[MrForbes]

They could also be used for decorative wiring....as mentioned in the application notes, for LED wiring :eek: