connectors for multiple servo driver box

Other Hardware General Electronics
1

Hi

I'm making a MIDI- PWM output box for driving servos, motors, LED strips, solenoids or similar devices which can be controlled this way and powered from either 5v or 12v (ATX power supply).

Ideally I would have small but robust connectors that could be mounted into a panel. So far the best solution I've thought of is mini-XLR, as they are locking connectors with enough poles for the devices I want to connect. They're expensive though, as I plan on having 60 outputs (daisy chaining PCA9685 16 channel PWM port expanders from an Arduino Micro).

What do other people use? I want the box to be neat, robust, and to not have to worry about cables falling out (hence locking connectors). Other connectors I thought of are pcb mounted mini USB (or other USB connectors). In another forum post, JST connectors were suggested, but I don't think these would be sturdy enough. Normal sized XLR connectors are cheaper, and I've found 19" 2U rack units with 24 sockets on ebay for €35, but they're bulky. Mini-XLR connectors are rated up to 5A; the servos I will be using draw 100mA, the motors around 400mA.

Suggestions and considerations welcome!

2

XLR connectors are used for a reason.

3

Hi Paul, is that to say they are used for a reason I've already stated and that's what other people use, or some other reason? Please elaborate.

I'm currently thinking JST connectors might actually do the job as they would be convenient (PCB mounted, reducing wiring and soldering), a fraction of the cost, and have tabs to prevent plugging in the wrong way. Plastic though...

4

deved:
Hi Paul, is that to say they are used for a reason I've already stated

You did use the word "sturdy". :smiley:

Up to you.