5 different solar panel connector types explained

5 different solar panel connector types explained

So you want to know the type of solar panel connector? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Solar Smarts are here to help shine a light on the sometimes murky subject of solar energy.

 First of all, the first thing you need to know is that you are likely to come across five different types of solar connectors :MC4, MC3, Tyco, Amphenol and Radox connector types. Of these 5 systems, 2 are no longer in use because they do not meet modern electrical codes, but can still be found in some older systems. However, of the other three types, there are actually two major connectors that dominate the market.

There are several other types of connectors you may encounter when designing a solar array, but they are far less common and will not be used by any reputable solar installer.

In addition to the connector type itself, each connector can also come in many different shapes, such as T-joints, U-joints, or X-joints. Each is a different shape, and you may need to connect your solar modules together and fit them into the space and arrangement required.

When choosing a solar connector for your project, be sure to consider factors such as shape and maximum voltage in addition to the type of connector. Since each connector is one of the most vulnerable points in your new solar project, it will be important to choose a well-regarded and reputable manufacturer in order to keep the system efficient and reduce the risk of fire.

 Many connectors also require a special tool to crimp and/or connect/disconnect the connector. Check the comparison chart below to see which connectors require special tools and other quick statistics on solar connectors

Comparative table

mc4 mc3 tyco solarlok amphenol helios radox

Need an unlock tool? Y n Y Y n

 Safety clip?

 Need a crimping tool? MC4 Crimping pliers rennsteig Pro-Kit Crimping pliers tyco Solarlok crimping pliers amphenol Crimping pliers radox crimping pliers

 Cost $2.50 – $2.00 $1.30 -

 Is it Intermatable? Not with Helios not with mc4 No

 Multi-contact (MC)

 Multi-Contact is one of the most respected and well-established companies that manufactures solar panel connectors. They made the MC4 and MC3 connectors, both of which involve the model number and a specific diameter of the connector wire. Multi-Contact was purchased by Staubli electric Connectors and now operates under that name, but retains the MC model of its connector wire.

 MC4

 The MC4 connector is the most commonly used connector in the solar industry. They are a single contact electrical connector with a 4 mm contact pin (hence the “4″ in the name). The MC4 is popular because it can easily put the solar panels together by hand, while also having a safety lock to prevent them from coming apart accidentally.

 Since 2011, the MC4 has been the primary solar panel connector on the market — equipping almost all solar panels in production.

 In addition to the safety lock, the MC4 connector is weather resistant, UV resistant, and designed for continuous outdoor use. Some other manufacturers do sell their connectors as interusable with MC connectors, but may not meet modern safety standards, so be sure to check before mixing connector types.

 MC3

 The MC3 connector is a 3mm version of the now-ubiquitous MC4 solar connector (not to be confused with the more popular MC Hammer