Molex's SolarSpec panel-mount DC connectors are now fully certified to the applicable IEC standards

     Molex's SolarSpec panel-mount direct current (DC) connectors are now fully certified to the applicable IEC standards and accredited by the TUV and UL certification bodies. SolarSpec Panel mounted DC connectors are designed with internal locking and contact resistance for superior safety performance. The retaining nut mechanism allows easy installation to the panel and provides a safe and reliable cable connection for internal inverter wiring. Molex and its distribution channels now supply volume products with panel mount connectors.

     Molex Product Manager Peter Commane said: "Panel mount DC connectors for solar inverters expand the SolarSpec portfolio lineup to include silicon photovoltaic (PV) panel junction boxes, crimp terminal DC connectors directly connected to solar junction boxes, field mount and photovoltaic grid wiring, and DC cable assemblies. SolarSpec components are designed and manufactured in-house, ensuring high quality and reliability at a competitive price. Customers also benefit from unique value-added design features."

     SolarSpec solutions that comply with IEC, NEC 2008 (690.33) standards and NFPA 70 US code provide innovative interlocking mechanisms that prevent accidental and unlicensed connector disengagement during field applications and provide reliable connections and safe operation. SolarSpec panel mounted DC connectors maintain contact resistance below 0.5 milliohm (milliohm), providing excellent efficiency. The connector is capable of withstanding currents up to 30.0A and is suitable for 2.50mm2 and 4.00 to 6.00mm2(14 AWG and 12 to 10 AWG) cables to meet a wide range of customer needs. When used with partition panels, a biased panel opening helps prevent the connector from turning and ensures that plug and socket connectors are not cross-mounted.

     Rugged SolarSpec panel mounted DC connectors feature IP67 seals to prevent dust and water from entering. The housing is resistant to ultraviolet (UV) and ozone damage. The contactless safety design protects installers and maintenance engineers from electrical current damage even during plug and disconnect operations. This connector has a unique molded surface stiffener that allows for a firm grip, especially when wearing work gloves.

     To simplify assembly, the simple nut mechanism on the SolarSpec panel mount DC connector can be secured to the inverter panel partition using a standard wrench. For additional safety, use Molex's field maintenance tool to loosen the latch when pulling it out. Another attractive feature is that the same Molex application tools are available for both panel mounting and standard DC crimp terminals. These application tools include the manual crimp tool and the Mini-Mac™ bench applicator.