Deutsch Connectors -and- "Deutsch" Connectors

[Eric Page]

Recently, in the "Show Me Fox" build thread, there was a short conversation about using Deutsch connectors (starting at post #310). Coincidentally, I recently posted some relevant information about this at the AeroElectric-List forum, which I'll copy below with minor edits.

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Many of the "Deutsch" connectors sold on eBay and Amazon are Chinese knock-offs, not genuine parts. There's no guarantee that they're made from the same plastics, elastomers and metals as genuine Deutsch parts, or that they conform to the identical dimensions or surface finishes, which are critical for the seals to work properly. That said, the patents on these connectors have expired, so it's also very possible that every source on the market is entirely identical. If TE Connectivity (owners of Deutsch) or Amphenol have contract manufacturing done in China, then it's also possible that excess production is going out the back door of the factory to be sold on the gray market.

If you want to use Deutsch connectors but don't like the high prices of genuine Deutsch parts, and you want quality parts from a reliable manufacturer, look for the Amphenol equivalents. All Amphenol parts are entirely interchangeable with their Deutsch counterparts, they're distributed through traceable supply chains and they cost significantly less than Deutsch. Here are links to the Amphenol product webpages:

• Amphenol ATM = Deutsch DTM (7.5A per contact)
• Amphenol AT = Deutsch DT (13A per contact)
• Amphenol ATP = Deutsch DTP (25A per contact)

Look for the PDF documents at the bottom of each Amphenol product page for part numbering charts.

Digi-Key, Mouser, Newark, Waytek Wire, WireCare, BuyDeutsch and many others carry these connectors.

I would recommend using machined contacts, not stamped-and-formed, as it's much easier to get good results when crimping. For good quality, inexpensive crimp tooling, look for the tools made by Iwiss (mostly sold under the iCrimp brand). For ATM/DTM, get the IWD-20, for AT/DT, get the IWD-16 and for ATP/DTP, get the IWD-12. All of these are usually available at good prices on Amazon and eBay. If you already have a Size 20 crimper for standard-density machined D-Sub contacts, give it a try on ATM/DTM before you buy another tool; it may work fine with a small depth adjustment.

All you really need for contact removal tools are a small flat-blade screwdriver and a mini pick. If you want a specific tool, Amazon has one for $6 that works for all connector sizes.

I have saved lists at Digi-Key containing all of the basic components for ATM, AT and ATP series connectors in all available pin counts. See the links below:

• ATM: https://www.digikey.com/en/mylists/list/S9PGBP85ZQ
• AT: https://www.digikey.com/en/mylists/list/XMKHB6MTG5
• ATP: https://www.digikey.com/en/mylists/list/6UR6QPAV5H

I included all of the machined pins and sockets that Digi-Key carries; a few additional part numbers are listed in the Amphenol charts but not in Digi-Key's catalog. Look in the "Customer Reference" column of my lists for notes on surface finish and wire gauge for each contact.

To build a connector pair you need the following parts:

• plug housing (uses female sockets)
• socket contacts
• plug wedge lock
• receptacle housing (uses male pins)
• pin contacts
• receptacle wedge lock
• sealing plug for every unused position in each housing (last item on each Digi-Key list linked above)

[alexM]

Damn, it looks like I have fallen for the fraudulent version. I got all mine off of the big A site, called "JReady ST6329-4" in at least one case - with stamped contacts no doubt.

Beyond the expired patents, when a manufacturer chooses to offshore production it is amusing when they are surprised to see their product being sold out the back door with a different label. I know many people who have had products produced in China, or who are themselves Chinese. Intellectual property rights mean absolutely nothing to them.

I will say my JReady connectors plugged right into a known legit Deutsch connector.

Good post Eric. Thanks for pointing us in the right direction (again).

[Eric Page]

Damn, it looks like I have fallen for the fraudulent version.

I wouldn't lose any sleep over it. There's every chance the JReady parts come off the same production line as the genuine variety. I suspect JReady is the pinnacle of the -- what should I call it? -- illegitimate market. They at least have a complete ecosystem of connectors, contacts and tooling under their brand umbrella, so there's some motivation to sell good quality stuff that works right.

I didn't mean to panic anyone about using the Amazon/eBay sourced parts; I just wanted to point out that there's another well-known and respected manufacturer that sells compatible parts at much lower prices than Deutsch.

[Geek]

Great post Eric. I, like Alex, have used both the Deutsch and JR connectors and like them. But think one of the biggest takeaways from your info is the use of machined pins. The fit and finish is so much better after crimping which was why I swapped out the Molex whenever I could. Spent most of my professional life with military high performance jets and there was a reason we never used anything but machined pins when wiring and connecting components.

Also a huge thanks. So many posts are quick to point out errors or parts/processes but provide no positive suggestions/options. Yours went the second mile for sure.

Gary