What connectors?

[Neale]

My current machine uses 4-pin XLR connectors between control box and steppers. These are still available but only at UK prices - the 4-pin male plugs seem like rocking-horse droppings on Aliexpress although panel sockets are available (but not sure why...).

What connectors do people generally use in this situation? I used XLR because they are latching so reasonably reliable in terms of vibration, and adequate current/voltage ratings. Not sure if there is a better choice, though.

[Jonathan]

The type previously often seen on Chinese spindles is nice and compact - namely GX16 connectors. See my post here:

http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/4950-Plug-for-water-cooled-Chinese-spindle?p=34318#post34318

There are now plenty of sources of them besides. I used them recently on my control box. Watch out for which gender you get if you care about exposed voltages.

[Neale]

Thanks - I'm always a bit nervous about buying into a system that looks good today but is unrepeatable in a year or two. These seem to have been around long enough! Immediate project will use them for 5V opto-isolated connections so not worried about gender.

[cropwell]

If you want fast and cheapish http://www.audiospares.com/home.php?cat=1025

[Clive S]

Thanks - I'm always a bit nervous about buying into a system that looks good today but is unrepeatable in a year or two. These seem to have been around long enough! Immediate project will use them for 5V opto-isolated connections so not worried about gender.
I use a cat cable with a BOB on the router and the cat5 plug with a lead through on the control panel.