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Posted for "Mark & Lisa" <marknlisa@hometel.com>:
While true that a static load isn't directly indicative of a connector's
suitablility to a particular task, it does give some imperical data--we have
a fairly good idea of the connector's ability to stay connected! Regarding
moisture, I stand by my original post; if proper precautions are taken, such
as ensuring a good squeeze on the female end you'll attain an airtight
connection between the two connector ends. Further, precautions with strain
relief will address vibration issues. Thermal cycling is a problem for all
connector technologies.
The card-edge connector found on many modern avionics is a form of spade
connector. Yes, the ends are usually held together mechanically (a bolt,
screw, etc.), but the electrical connection is still one piece of metal
sandwiched between two others, just like a fast-on. Even the cannon-style
plug connectors you recommend are a type of spade connector. The only
difference is the mechanical means to hold the two ends together. The
mechanics can be duplicated with fast-ons by ensuring proper attention to
strain relief.
There are many types of connector technologies used in modern automotive
construction. I wonder how much consideration the engineers and bean
counters gave to a given connector's "suitability to task" vs "ease of
installation?" If I had access to a technician with thousands of hours
experience installing a particular type of connector technology then I
wouldn't worry too much about installation errors causing problems down the
road. On the other hand, since I'll be doing the work myself, and I'm
particularly unsuited to evaluating the quality of any soldering I might do,
I'll stick with a connector technology I know will give me acceptable,
repeatable results. I'll pay strict attention to strain relief to mitigate
any limitations regarding the mechanical robustness of my chosen connector
technology.
In my mind, extra attention to strain relief is easier than learning to
solder!
Mark
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