Connectors - Revision history

RobotRobot: Fix dead links (Oct 2026 link check): replace moved pages, remove discontinued products and closed stores

2026-10-17T14:38:42Z

Fix dead links (Oct 2026 link check): replace moved pages, remove discontinued products and closed stores

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:38, 17 October 2026
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	==Guides==		==Guides==
	~~Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].~~

Chklnk: /* Connector Types */ Bullet good for 3ph

2023-12-17T12:00:42Z

Connector Types: Bullet good for 3ph

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:00, 17 December 2023
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	*'''Amass MR''': The MR30 and MR60 series connectors have 3 pins and are used to make brushless motor disconnects.		*'''Amass MR''': The MR30 and MR60 series connectors have 3 pins and are used to make brushless motor disconnects.
	*'''Anderson PowerPole''': This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.		*'''Anderson PowerPole''': This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.
	*'''Bullet''': These single-pin connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. They take up little space, but their physical connection can be weak. Like other connectors, securing them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match. The XT150 is one of the largest types, carrying up to 130 amps continuously.		*'''Bullet''': These single-pin connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. They are good for brushless motors because it's easy to switch two of the wires to change the motor direction. They take up little space, but their physical connection can be weak. Like other connectors, securing them with tape or heat-shrink tubing will help prevent power loss during a match. The XT150 is one of the largest types, carrying up to 130 amps continuously.

	==Guides==		==Guides==
	Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].		Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].

User at 20:40, 1 June 2022

2022-06-01T20:40:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:40, 1 June 2022
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	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
	[[File:Deans_MF.PNG\|thumb\|Male ~~and Female~~ Deans Connectors]]		[[File:Deans_MF.PNG\|thumb\|Female and Male Deans Connectors]]
	* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.		* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.
	* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)		* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)

User: changed Male-Female example

2022-06-01T20:36:27Z

changed Male-Female example

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:36, 1 June 2022
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	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
	[[File:Deans_MF.~~png~~\|thumb\|Male and Female Deans Connectors]]		[[File:Deans_MF.PNG\|thumb\|Male and Female Deans Connectors]]
	* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.		* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.
	* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)		* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)

User at 20:34, 1 June 2022

2022-06-01T20:34:42Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:34, 1 June 2022
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	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
	[[File:~~XT_Male_Female~~.~~jpg~~\|thumb\|Male and Female XT Connectors]]		[[File:Deans_MF.png\|thumb\|Male and Female Deans Connectors]]
	* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.		* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.
	* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)		* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)

Chklnk: Applications intro, added JR and MR connectors and further details

2022-05-27T03:17:48Z

Applications intro, added JR and MR connectors and further details

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:17, 27 May 2022
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	~~==Why Connectors?==~~		[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST RCY Connectors]]
	[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST Connectors]]		In combat robotics we use connectors to rapidly disconnect and replace damaged parts such as batteries, motors, servos, and subassemblies (such as removable weapon modules). Repairs between rounds go more smoothly if you have replacement items standing by with connectors already attached and ready to go.
	~~Bunny of Team Malice has created~~ a [~~https://teammalice~~.~~com/index~~.~~php/~~how~~-tos/ great connector guide]~~.
			==Applications==
			The most important connectors may be the ones on your battery. You'll need to be able to remove and refresh [[Batteries\|batteries]] between matches so your bot doesn't weaken as the competition goes on. While some kit bots permit easy plug-in charging, swapping in a fresh battery will get your bot to 100% immediately.

			Another common bot failure is [[Motors\|motors]]. If you can spare the weight, add motor connectors to your bot's motors and all the spares; this will drastically decrease swap and repair time. Just be aware that most connectors only plug together in one direction. If you won't be able to switch motor wires to fix polarity problems, you will need to know how to reverse the direction of a motor on your transmitter or ESC instead.

	~~Although some people may solder their batteries directly into their bots~~, ~~nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging~~. ~~There are~~ a ~~lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. All of the connectors mentioned below are suitable for Robot Combat but size~~, ~~weight, current capacty~~ and ~~the physical security are all important to consider when deciding which one is right for you~~.		If your bot has a [[Servos\|servo]], try to leave its cable intact. That way, if a servo fails or its gears break, you can bolt in a spare servo and just plug it in.

	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
	[[File:XT_Male_Female.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female XT Connectors]]		[[File:XT_Male_Female.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female XT Connectors]]
	* Male and Female connectors: ~~Many~~ connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of ~~the~~ battery short circuiting by accident.		* Male and Female connectors: Most connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of a battery's connector touching something and short-circuiting by accident.
	* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and ~~ground~~ sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed.		* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and negative sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed. (On some connectors, if you push hard enough you can still connect them backwards, so do look at the connectors while plugging them together.)
	* Crimped / Soldered: Wires need to be secured to the connector. This can be done physically with a ~~crimp~~ or by soldering the wire to the connector. ~~In some connectors~~ the ~~wire can be both crimped and soldered~~.		* Crimped / Soldered: Wires need to be secured to the connector pins. This can be done physically by crushing the pin with a specialized crimping tool, or by soldering the wire to the connector. Pins are usually (but not always) designed to do only one or the other.
	* Anti-Spark: At higher voltages, electricity can arc across the connector. This damages the surface of the connector pins, which increases resistance and reduces their efficiency. Arc can even damage electronics. Some connectors are designed to reduce this effect. Although anti-sparking connectors can be more expensive, they are typically a better choice at high voltages.		* Anti-Spark: At higher voltages, electricity can arc across the connector. This damages the surface of the connector pins, which increases resistance and reduces their efficiency. Arc can even damage electronics. Some connectors are designed to reduce this effect. Although anti-sparking connectors can be more expensive, they are typically a better choice at high voltages.

	==Connector Types==		==Connector Types==
	[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]		[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]
			The following are some of the most common connectors used in combat robotics.

	*'''JST RCY''': (Often called "JST", the name of the manufacturer.) These connectors are often seen on small Lipo batteries, and are frequently used in 150g or 1lb small robots. ~~They often come~~ with wires pre-attached for convenience. Instead of the smaller 22 gauge wire, look for ones that have at least 20 gauge wire, which will easily handle 5 amps. They have only a tiny latch to hold them together, so you might want to physically secure them with tape or a zip-tie.		*'''JR''', '''Futaba''', '''DuPont''': The connectors used on small servos are called by various names. Nearly all are pre-crimped to small wires, and it's cheap to buy spare cables and use them for repairs. The wires and connectors don't carry much power, and they invariably have generic connectors that can be easily reversed by mistake. On radio-controlled equipment these are usually 3-pin connectors that plug straight into the Rx (receiver). For combat bots, taping these connectors together may be a wise choice.
	*XT ~~Connectors~~: ~~This~~ connector style is popular because ~~of its~~ fairly compact ~~form factor~~ and ~~ability to~~ handle high current. ~~XT connectors~~ come in 30, 60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally ~~the~~ XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications. ~~Most XT connectors will~~ require ~~that you solder a wire~~ to the ~~connector~~. The connectors have a fair amount of thermal mass which can require a bit of practice with a quality soldering iron to make a good connection.		*'''JST RCY'''[https://www.jst.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/eRCY.pdf]: (Often called "JST", the name of the manufacturer.) These 3 amp, 2-pin crimp connectors are often seen on small Lipo batteries, and are frequently used in 150g or 1lb small robots. It's easiest to buy these with wires pre-attached for convenience (no need to own a crimping tool). Instead of the smaller 22 gauge wire, look for ones that have at least 20 gauge wire, which will easily handle 5 amps. They have only a tiny latch to hold them together, so you might want to physically secure them with tape or a zip-tie.
	*Anderson ~~PowerPoles~~: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.		*'''Amass XT''': The XT series connector style is popular because they are fairly compact and can handle high current. They come in 30, 60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications. In combat robotics, the solder-cup types (XT30-U, XT60 and XT60H, and XT90H) are commonly used and require wires to be soldered to the pins. The connectors have a fair amount of thermal mass which can require a bit of practice with a quality soldering iron to make a good connection. Sometimes called "HeXTronik."
	*Bullet: These connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. They take up ~~very~~ little space, but their physical connection can be weak. Like other connectors, securing them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match.		*'''Amass MR''': The MR30 and MR60 series connectors have 3 pins and are used to make brushless motor disconnects.
			*'''Anderson PowerPole''': This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.
			*'''Bullet''': These single-pin connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. They take up little space, but their physical connection can be weak. Like other connectors, securing them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match. The XT150 is one of the largest types, carrying up to 130 amps continuously.

			==Guides==
			Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].

Chklnk: Spelling/editing and added product name of JST connector

2021-11-20T08:49:09Z

Spelling/editing and added product name of JST connector

User at 05:01, 10 November 2021

2021-11-10T05:01:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:01, 10 November 2021
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	[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST Connectors]]		[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST Connectors]]
	Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].		Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].
	<br>		<br><br>
	Although some people may soldier their batteries directly into their bots, nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. All of the connectors mentioned below are suitable for Robot Combat but size, weight, current capacty and the physical security are all important to consider when deciding which one is right for you. <br>		Although some people may soldier their batteries directly into their bots, nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. All of the connectors mentioned below are suitable for Robot Combat but size, weight, current capacty and the physical security are all important to consider when deciding which one is right for you. <br>
	<br><br><br><br><br><br>		<br><br><br><br><br><br>
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	[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]		[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]

	*JST: These small connectors work well in small robots but they have a limited current capacity. Some connectors come with 22 or higher gage wire. Look for ones that have at least 20 gage wire which will easily handle 5 amps. Also, these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be physically secured with tape or a zip-tie.		*JST: These small connectors work well in small robots but they have a limited current capacity. Some connectors come with 22 or higher gage wire. Look for ones that have at least 20 gage wire which will easily handle 5 amps. Also, these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be physically secured with tape or a zip-tie. Most smaller lipo batteries come with JST connecters by default.
	*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications.		*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications. Most XT connectors will require that you soldier a wire to the connector. The connectors have a fair amount of thermal mass which can require a bit of practice with a quality soldering iron to make a good connection.
	*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in.		*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.
	*Bullet: These connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. One advantage is that they take up very little space but their physical connection can be weak in many cases. Like other connctors, scuring them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match.		*Bullet: These connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. One advantage is that they take up very little space but their physical connection can be weak in many cases. Like other connctors, scuring them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match.

User: Added image, minor changes.

2021-11-10T00:12:52Z

Added image, minor changes.

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:12, 10 November 2021
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			==Why Connectors?==
			[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST Connectors]]
	Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].		Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].
	<br>		<br>
	Although some people may soldier their batteries directly into their bots, nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. ~~Size~~, weight, current capacty and the physical security ~~of the connection~~ are all important to consider. <br>		Although some people may soldier their batteries directly into their bots, nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. All of the connectors mentioned below are suitable for Robot Combat but size, weight, current capacty and the physical security are all important to consider when deciding which one is right for you. <br>
			<br><br><br><br><br><br>

	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
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	[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]		[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]

	*JST: These small connectors work well in small robots but they have a limited current capacity ~~of about~~ 5 amps. Also, these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be physically secured with tape or a zip-tie.		*JST: These small connectors work well in small robots but they have a limited current capacity. Some connectors come with 22 or higher gage wire. Look for ones that have at least 20 gage wire which will easily handle 5 amps. Also, these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be physically secured with tape or a zip-tie.
	*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications.		*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications.
	*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in.		*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in.
	*Bullet:		*Bullet: These connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. One advantage is that they take up very little space but their physical connection can be weak in many cases. Like other connctors, scuring them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match.

User: adding images

2021-11-09T06:42:36Z

adding images

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:42, 9 November 2021
Line 1:		Line 1:


	Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].		Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].
	<br>		<br>
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	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
			[[File:XT_Male_Female.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female XT Connectors]]
	* Male and Female connectors: Many connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of the battery short circuiting by accident.<br>		* Male and Female connectors: Many connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of the battery short circuiting by accident.<br>
	* Polarized: Many connectors are not symetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the postive and ground sides of the battery are not accidentaly reversed.		* Polarized: Many connectors are not symetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the postive and ground sides of the battery are not accidentaly reversed.
	* Crimped / Soldiered: Wires need to be secured to the connector. This can be done physically with a crimp or by soldering the wire to the connector. In some connectors the wire can be both crimped and soldiered.		* Crimped / Soldiered: Wires need to be secured to the connector. This can be done physically with a crimp or by soldering the wire to the connector. In some connectors the wire can be both crimped and soldiered.
	* Anti-Spark: At higher voltages, electriicy can arc across the connector. This can result in carbon build-up on the connectors which reduces their efficiency. In worst-cases this electrical arc can damage electronics. Some connectors are designed to reduce this effect. Although anti-sparc connectors can be more expensive, they are typically a better choice at high voltages.		* Anti-Spark: At higher voltages, electriicy can arc across the connector. This can result in carbon build-up on the connectors which reduces their efficiency. In worst-cases this electrical arc can damage electronics. Some connectors are designed to reduce this effect. Although anti-sparc connectors can be more expensive, they are typically a better choice at high voltages.
			<br>

	==Connector Types==		==Connector Types==
			[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]

	*JST: These small connectors work well in small robots but they have a limited current capacity of about 5 amps. Also, these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be physically secured with tape or a zip-tie.		*JST: These small connectors work well in small robots but they have a limited current capacity of about 5 amps. Also, these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be physically secured with tape or a zip-tie.
	*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications.		*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications.
	*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in.		*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in.
	*Bullet:		*Bullet:

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:49, 20 November 2021
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	[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST Connectors]]		[[File:JST_Connector.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female JST Connectors]]
	Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].		Bunny of Team Malice has created a [https://teammalice.com/index.php/how-tos/ great connector guide].
	~~<br><br>~~
	Although some people may ~~soldier~~ their batteries directly into their bots, nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. All of the connectors mentioned below are suitable for Robot Combat but size, weight, current capacty and the physical security are all important to consider when deciding which one is right for you. ~~<br>~~		Although some people may solder their batteries directly into their bots, nearly everyone uses connectors so they can unplug their batteries for easy charging. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding what the right connectors are for your application. All of the connectors mentioned below are suitable for Robot Combat but size, weight, current capacty and the physical security are all important to consider when deciding which one is right for you.
	~~<br><br><br><br><br><br>~~

	==Terminology==		==Terminology==
	[[File:XT_Male_Female.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female XT Connectors]]		[[File:XT_Male_Female.jpg\|thumb\|Male and Female XT Connectors]]
	* Male and Female connectors: Many connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of the battery short circuiting by accident.~~<br>~~		* Male and Female connectors: Many connectors have a 'Male' connector type and a 'Female' connector type. There are a few reasons for this design approach. The connectors on the power-source side (battery) are typically 'Female' which means they receive the 'Male' connector which houses the electrical contacts inside the connector. This reduces the likelihood of the battery short circuiting by accident.
	* Polarized: Many connectors are not ~~symetrical~~ which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the ~~postive~~ and ground sides of the battery are not ~~accidentaly~~ reversed.		* Polarized: Many connectors are not symmetrical which means they will only plug into each other in one direction. This ensures that the positive and ground sides of the battery are not accidentally reversed.
	* Crimped / ~~Soldiered~~: Wires need to be secured to the connector. This can be done physically with a crimp or by soldering the wire to the connector. In some connectors the wire can be both crimped and ~~soldiered~~.		* Crimped / Soldered: Wires need to be secured to the connector. This can be done physically with a crimp or by soldering the wire to the connector. In some connectors the wire can be both crimped and soldered.
	* Anti-Spark: At higher voltages, ~~electriicy~~ can arc across the connector. This ~~can result in carbon build-up on~~ the ~~connectors~~ which reduces their efficiency. ~~In worst-cases this electrical arc~~ can damage electronics. Some connectors are designed to reduce this effect. Although anti-~~sparc~~ connectors can be more expensive, they are typically a better choice at high voltages.		* Anti-Spark: At higher voltages, electricity can arc across the connector. This damages the surface of the connector pins, which increases resistance and reduces their efficiency. Arc can even damage electronics. Some connectors are designed to reduce this effect. Although anti-sparking connectors can be more expensive, they are typically a better choice at high voltages.
	~~<br>~~

	==Connector Types==		==Connector Types==
	[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]		[[File:AndersonConnectors.jpg\|thumb\|Anderson Connector Sizes]]

	*JST: These small ~~connectors work well~~ in small robots ~~but they have a limited current capacity~~. ~~Some connectors~~ come with 22 ~~or higher gage~~ wire~~. Look~~ for ones that have at least 20 ~~gage~~ wire which will easily handle 5 amps. ~~Also~~, ~~these connectors don't make a strong physical connection and should be~~ physically ~~secured~~ with tape or a zip-tie~~. Most smaller lipo batteries come with JST connecters by default~~.		*'''JST RCY''': (Often called "JST", the name of the manufacturer.) These connectors are often seen on small Lipo batteries, and are frequently used in 150g or 1lb small robots. They often come with wires pre-attached for convenience. Instead of the smaller 22 gauge wire, look for ones that have at least 20 gauge wire, which will easily handle 5 amps. They have only a tiny latch to hold them together, so you might want to physically secure them with tape or a zip-tie.
	*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30,60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications. Most XT connectors will require that you ~~soldier~~ a wire to the connector. The connectors have a fair amount of thermal mass which can require a bit of practice with a quality soldering iron to make a good connection.		*XT Connectors: This connector style is popular because of its fairly compact form factor and ability to handle high current. XT connectors come in 30, 60, and 90 amp versions but can handle more than their rated current for short periods of time. Additionally the XT connectors come in anti-spark versions which are especially useful in high voltage applications. Most XT connectors will require that you solder a wire to the connector. The connectors have a fair amount of thermal mass which can require a bit of practice with a quality soldering iron to make a good connection.
	*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.		*Anderson PowerPoles: This older style connector is still very popular and comes in a range of physical sizes that are rated to handle between 15 and 350 amps. These connectors also have the advantage of a strong physical connection when plugged in. Although you can solder wires into these connectors, they are designed to be crimped.
	*Bullet: These connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. ~~One advantage is that they~~ take up very little space but their physical connection can be weak ~~in many cases~~. Like other ~~connctors~~, ~~scuring~~ them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match.		*Bullet: These connectors come in various sizes to handle different current. They take up very little space, but their physical connection can be weak. Like other connectors, securing them with tape will help prevent power loss during a match.