Need Help Finding a Cable Quick Connector

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a suitable quick connector for a 24V DC LED panel connected to a dimmer, specifically focusing on the requirements for a connector that accommodates a 4-conductor, 24 AWG cable. Participants explore various connector options and considerations for ensuring compatibility and safety.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests suggestions for a small quick connect for a 24V DC LED panel and dimmer setup.
  • Another participant suggests using RJ45 connectors, noting that they are standard for 24 AWG phone cables.
  • A question is raised about whether two RJ45 connections could be used to accommodate the four wires in the cable.
  • Clarification is provided that RJ45 connectors accept four pairs of wires, implying they could be used for the setup.
  • One participant expresses opposition to using standard connectors for non-standard applications, advocating for connectors that prevent misuse.
  • Molex connectors are proposed as a suitable option for carrying power, along with other types like DB and circular connectors.
  • A compromise is suggested to use the outer two pairs of conductors in the RJ45, as they are less commonly used in typical applications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing views on the appropriateness of using standard connectors like RJ45 for this application, with some advocating for specialized connectors to avoid potential misuse. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best connector choice.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying opinions on the suitability of standard connectors for non-standard applications, highlighting concerns about compatibility and safety. There is no consensus on the best approach or connector type.

2slowtogofast
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Can someone suggest a product or point me in the right direction of something that will do the following.

I have a 24V DC LED panel connected to a dimmer by a cable that has 4 conductors with a 24 AWG size. I need to put a quick connect between the dimmer and the LED panel. The smaller this connector is the better. Can somebody help me out. Thanks.
 
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2slowtogofast said:
Can someone suggest a product or point me in the right direction of something that will do the following.

I have a 24V DC LED panel connected to a dimmer by a cable that has 4 conductors with a 24 AWG size. I need to put a quick connect between the dimmer and the LED panel. The smaller this connector is the better. Can somebody help me out. Thanks.

RJ45? That's the standard connector for 24AWG phone cable...
 
Each RJ45 accepts 2 wires. So would I need to find one that works with 4 or could I just use 2 RJ45 connections to connect my 4 wires inside my cable.
 
2slowtogofast said:
Each RJ45 accepts 2 wires. So would I need to find one that works with 4 or could I just use 2 RJ45 connections to connect my 4 wires inside my cable.

No, RJ-45 accepts 4 pairs..

http://www.nullmodem.com/images/conn-rj-45m-picture2a.gif
conn-rj-45m-picture2a.gif
 
I am against using standard connectors for non standard things. You want something people won't plug their "whatever" in to.

That said, Molex connectors are almost always for carrying power. http://www.jameco.com/1/3/molex-panel-mount-connectors

Other "standards-like" choices are DB (like DB-7), Din, and other circular connectors. Just search for "panel mount power connectors" or just "panel mount connectors".

There may be some ready made molex cable assemblies too.
 
meBigGuy said:
I am against using standard connectors for non standard things. You want something people won't plug their "whatever" in to.

That's an excellent point, and a good policy. I was under the impression that the OP's system was pretty closed/private, so I didn't factor that consideration in. One compromise option would be to use the outside 2 pairs of conductors out of the 8, since those are hardly ever used in phone-type applications.
 

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