Charles Harpole wrote:
So called " D connectors" have design specifications issued by
various mfg of them. Most list a limited life of 10 to 30 plug/unplug
cycles. That is from the designers. Of course, hams often push
design specs well beyond those published...
10-30 plug/unplug cycles is for those who use cheap components and/or
don't expect the need for many cycles (a printer for example).
If there is concern about cycling lifetime, consider using a D-Shell or
HD D-Shell that complies with MIL-DTL-24308; Cycling lifetime is much
higher that the 10-30.
http://www.dscc.dla.mil/Downloads/MilSpec/Docs/MIL-DTL-24308/dtl24308.pdf
They are available and are more robust models of the classic D-Shells.
They have been around for many decades now and are a fine choice.
but much more than reliability is the issue of USE-ABILITY. The K3 is
a field radio and under the most remote and demanding condx, anderson
Powerpole and these D thingies are the first frustrations....
UNLESS.... If u have
1. steady soldering hands
2. very good eyesight
3. extra patience
4. proper small soldering tools
5. a proper crimper
6. extra care when plugging and unplugging, and
7. a large parts store locally in ur area,
Granted, but even the most modest electrical/electronics workbench has
at least some of these items and once you have your cables complete and
made with good components and, perhaps, include a spare set, you should
be good to go.
THEN, you can welcome these toy (D) or non standard (APP) connectors.
Cheap D-Shell connectors are toys. Good D-Shell connectors are good
enough for harsh military conditions and are certainly not toys.
Anderson Power Poles have become a standard.
What is better, altho old stuff--- Cinch Jones (or even Molex) and
below that, screw terminal strips and/or binding posts. If u r stuck
with only bare wire and MUST make a connection, sticking a bare wire
tip into a Jones socket is DO-ABLE, or even into a Molex.... try that
with D s and even with the APPs.
Old has its place, but has its costs and frequently ignores valid progress.
The JA folks who gave us DIN connectors are now roasting in Small
Connector Hell, where they have to solder 30 pin DINs with the firey
heat of their bare fingers and are dipped bodily into molten solder
for every mistake.
Hahahaha... I think I agree with you on this one.
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