Hi, this is my first post here and probably not the last since this new hobby of mine is so much fun
For some weeks I have been building some weather station(rpi > usb > arduino nano)
that collects datapoints from multiple sensors and sends it to db.
But I got to the point where I'd like to start soldering stuff cause hanging everything on breadboard is not an option anymore..
I have about 10 sensors attached and I want to make them plug'able..
The way I imagined was:
I solder some JST 3x3pin connector matrix onto pcb, then share 5V/GND and only connect Analog/Digital pins to appropriate places, so I would be able to make smaller PCB and stack 3 connectors in bulk.
The problem that it seems like there's no such thing as JST connector matrix
I don't have any specific requirement of what type of connector should be, just interested what path you guys would go for if you had this aim - instead of soldering those 10+ sensor connector bases next to each and making them more compact
They would need to be easily unplug'able per sensor, meaning that i.e. one big connector wired to 5 sensors would not be an option
personally, for sensor wiring, I settled on network CAT-5 Style RJ Connectors. 1) It allowed me to use readily available wire and connectors I could get from the home supply store 2) PCB connectors could he harvested and re-used from older network gear.
FYI: I also have a RPI-usb arduino weather station. I use dielectric grease in any connectors that are outdoors to avoid corrosion.
RJ connectors wow great idea! to get a proper tool to put the caps on might be a bit expensive though, but unless somebody will have even easier answer this one makes my day already.
Thanks a lot!
So far my RPI was pulling json from local weather station api based on my zip code, but with all those sensors that are available I'm sure I'll utilize your tip about the grease thanks
You can get RJ45 crimpers pretty cheaply now. 4/6 conductor (RJ-11) crimpers are cheaper still, since they're used for phone line. A quick look on ebay showed them going for under $10, with kits for not that much more. I have a network cable crimper, and use it every time I'm setting up a network, so all the cables are the right length with color coded boots, and it has been very much worthwhile.
I remember when I was working for one small company, I had to do lot's of cable work. And I remember how crappy those cheap crimpers were.. was struggling every time until I made my boss buy me proper cripmps, costing about $60. But that was 8 years ago, so times might have changed..
and using RJ11 6pin modem sockets(Which I'm planning to go for) you don't really need good quality crimps..
But I also remembered that I work in datacenter.. I think I can find and borrow good quality ones in 5m radius from where I'm sitting
I currently have to do wire crimping for various projects and wire types using only the most basic of crimping tools. RJ45 are some of the worst for me, being color blind. I always have to ask and tag them with markers.
What are some of the network cable crimper tools that you used to make it easier? I'm interested in making my life easier.
My 1284P Bobuino2 will do the same, with signal-power-gnd available next to each header pin, or screw terminals can be added to provide access to the signals. Add male pins, female headers, however you'd like to connect. http://www.crossroadsfencing.com/BobuinoRev17/
ApexM0Eng:
I currently have to do wire crimping for various projects and wire types using only the most basic of crimping tools. RJ45 are some of the worst for me, being color blind. I always have to ask and tag them with markers.
What are some of the network cable crimper tools that you used to make it easier? I'm interested in making my life easier.
wow being color blinded, I can't imagine going any other way but using tester, and marking the wires.. I guess at this point crimps is least of your problem..
just gave a quick glance at one of the tables and of course it was there.. now with those it's surely fun to work. Since pressure is applied not in uneven, somewhat diagonal way, like with those cheap ones, but here crimps are pressing evenly all pins at the same time.
Feeling like RJ11 will fully fulfill my needs, thanks guys for the input.
I industrial applications, a lot of low current sensor connections that don't need IP65 type rating is being used.
You get the advantage of gold plated, sliding contacts on connection as well as good easy to use locking lever.
