Molex / AMP • In-line power connectors

[FBz]

“In October 1963, AMP (now TE Connectivity) introduced the Mate-n-Lok connector. The AMP connector was similar to the patented Molex connectors but not interchangeable. Both were widely used in the computer industry and the term "Molex connector" is often inaccurately used to refer to all nylon plugs and receptacles.” - Wikipedia



Normal, end-of-the-line connector pictured above. However, we normally see two of the type pictured below, on single feeds from PSU.



Connectors above allow individual wires to be pressed down into the connectors themselves and the pin “blades” pierce the individual
covering, allowing contact w/ the pins and eliminate the need for soldering each wire, OR the use of a special tool to create harnesses.

Now, one could rob these from old Apple wiring harnesses (which is likely what I will do in this instance) but I’d like to find a source for them instead. / Apple even used this type on their end power connections as well.

*And funny, after Wikipeda states: the term "Molex connector" is often inaccurately used to refer to all nylon plugs and receptacles.” - then in their Pinout graphic above… they note: “Molex 8981 Male Connector Pin Out”.

[peeperpc]

Now, one could rob these from old Apple wiring harnesses (which is likely what I will do in this instance) but I’d like to find a source for them instead.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/124096218867

There is no cap in the photos. I hope they're included.

I find the so called Molex Y cables have too thin wires to assure good contacts when used with this type of harness.
The wires Apple used are huge compared to them.

[FBz]

Thanks peeperpc!

Upon a closer look (and thanks to you and that 15-24-2006 reference number from the eBay listing) I have found other sources for that specific connector and similar ones. The original “Molex” variety did not come with the caps. (i.e “Locking Wire Strain Relief covers”). But they were offered separately. *Maybe why there is no mention of them in that eBay listing?

And while many possible sources list these as “obsolete” there appears to be available stock, like these from connectorpeople.com Their minimum order is 27 and @ $0.374 each… (that’s $10.10 before shipping).

NOW, FURTHER DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE…

BUT those are also “feed-to” and not the preferred “feed-through” connectors.
AND they’re rated for 20 AWG stranded wire, not the 18 AWG used by Apple PSUs.

      

Here are other possibilities (without the caps?) for 18 AWG.

      

And “Kits” with the caps. More specifically… 15-24-3032 and 15-24-2003. (For 18 AWG)

      

All the little details, ehh?

“End grips for easy unmating”.
  Absolutely hilarious!